The best bet for future college students is to choose a highly employable career path: education, medical technicians, math and computer science, nursing, and engineering. Students who choose a degree program with fewer opportunities need to understand all of the options with their specialized education.
Cut light openings into the stair risers or wall mount the lights. Place lights about every two steps and cut them in the center of each stair riser. Wall lights work well if you have a wall on both sides of the staircase. Wall lights should also be centered. Drill 1/4 inch pilot holes into the riser or wall.
Surface mount lighting fixtures have been a staple for years and using them in the basement is a cost effective lighting solution. The Hardware House 460212 Granada 6-1/2-Inch by 13-Inch Ceiling Lighting Fixture Antique Copper is one example of a traditional surface mounted light fixture.