I got this car about 6 months ago with no information on its maintenance record or anything. I did some light maintenance on the suspension and was bringing it in for regular maintenance and checks. But I recently ran into a a starting issue. Basically, when i turn the key in the ignition it has a slow turnover/ hesitation to start. It hasn't misfired on me and only does this about half the time. Im really at a loss as I don't know much about cars myself so i took it to the mechanic right away and they did an electrical as well and general diagnostic check. They told me it was my fuel pump regulator so I agreed for them to replace it. 800 dollars later my car is having the same issue… I brought it back and they agreed to double check it for free and told me that they could not find the problem. Im a college student and i will be driving cross country to college in two weeks (1,500 miles) so I dont have the time or budget to keep guessing and fixing until i get it right. Please help!!

Changing the fuel pump / fuel filter on this car is a tricky task and many guys have failed, or done but with insufficient fuel pressure after.
If your symptoms have been correctly diagnosed, I recommend finding a knowledgeable car technician who can replace the fuel pump / fuel filter and strainer.

In the diagram below, I have squared the fuel pressure regulator that you allegedly changed last time. In my opinion, this is not enough to restore the full operation of the fuel supply system, which may have a worn fuel pump, as well as a dirty / clogged fuel filter and strainer. Replace those parts and move on.

The car diagnostic shop can also measure the fuel pressure on your vehicle. To do this, it's necessary to disconnect the inlet fuel hose from the engine side and temporarily install an adapter for attaching a fuel pressure gauge. The pressure can then be monitored before the engine is started / during the idling and after the engine is stopped. Should be 44–50 psi during engine operation, and 21 psi or more for 5 minutes after the engine has stopped.
If pressure is not as specified, check the fuel pump, fuel fulter and pressure regulator and / or injectors.