A/C Won't Turn Off
 

I have a '02 Intrepid ES. For some reason, when I start the car, the air conditioner is on and on full blast. When I try to turn it off (by hitting off), it doesn't do anything! Can anyone explain to me what might be going on? After my own research I've found that it is probably an electrical issue. Does this sound right? Is this an expensive fix? Side-note: I'm a college student, funds are scarce. If there is a way I can just have it turn off and not use it again, that would be fine with me. Thank you in advance.