Yea could be a clogged fuel filter....replace that first....it's easy and cheap. Well....it's easy AFTER you get the stock one off....careful not to twist the fuel line when trying to loosen the nut. And be careful with the clip... after you finish putting it on....turn the key to on....give it like 10 seconds to get fuel through the lines and try starting. Hopefully it's just that...but it really doesn't sound like anything too crazy.
Start looking/asking around for an honest mechanic. DO NOT go to big chain places (like monro muffler, jiffy lube, etc.). Small shop ftw...their usually the hard working/honest ones.