Mascara/eye lash tips

Okay ladies so I’ve posted here before since I’m still pretty new to makeup. But I have a MAJOR question.

What are your secrets to longer or at least longer-looking eye lashes? I was practicing last night with my eye makeup, and when I put on eye liner you can’t even tell I have top eye lashes! I tried reapplying several times and still couldn’t tell!

I know I could do false eye lashes, but I don’t want to have to do that every time I put on eye liner (just the basic line for every day makeup). I really want it to look natural, but I have no idea how to make my eye lashes show.

I’ve tried making my eye liner as thin as possible, but it still doesn’t work. And I’ve tried constantly putting on layers of mascara, but it doesn’t work and it makes my eye lashes clump together.

I also know I could try services like extensions, but I really don’t have that much money as a broke college student. I’m already working 2 jobs just to pay tuition and gas.

If you all have any cheapish recommendations I’d love to hear!!! Thank you!!!