Transprogrammer

I wouldn’t say useless. Hopefully you learned useful things in school. And you probably feel confident about your ability to get a BS, if you can figure out the finances. But if you look at job listings for programmers, software engineers, IT folks, etc. seeing a request for an associates degree is pretty rare. Most places ask for a BS (and an MS or PhD is preferred for many roles and specializations). So the associates is of limited utility.

Having little or no job experience is probably hurting your chances quite a bit. Employers like to see at least a few internships on a college hire resume. Since you just finished the 2 year degree, maybe you could apply to internships and position it as “doing an internship before going back to finish the BS”. They don’t have to know that you aren’t sure you can afford to get a BS. Sometimes getting an internship is easier than a full time job since there aren’t expectations of a BS and work experience. And from the employer’s POV it’s a low risk hire, since interns are short term.

Does your school have an office that helps students with job listings and resume books? If so, you might see if you can leverage their services as a recent grad. Could you maybe get a job at your school? Even if it’s a part time job that a student might do like assisting the IT folks or helping in computer labs or really any random thing that involves computers in any way.

If you are low on money and have bills/rent then get whatever job you can, ASAP. You don’t want to risk homelessness while holding out of a job in your chosen industry. Good luck!