Some states don't connect with others dealing with points. You should call both states asking if Alabama residents get points from speeding in North Carolina. If they do not connect with points, just pay the ticket without driving there. I would try and keep my record clean as possible if I was a graduating student. Call your insurance company also and ask an agent if you will have to pay more if the states do not connect in points. You might just get points in North Carolina, not raising the surcharge on your Alabama insurance.
If you can not afford 100% percent right now, try paying them in thirds/quarters, but don't take a long time to finish. There may be a small fee. Call the city you got the ticket from and ask how long they will give you.
If you perfer to drive there and try to fight it, you will not have to hire an attorney because it is not major, only a second ticket in 6 months. Speak with the District Attorney instead. Explain you are a graduate to see if he will give you a break.
P.S. Get a radar detector.

