Easy money-saving tips for college freshmen
July 5, 2012
The sudden freedom of freshman year can often inspire a spending spree in freshman students. But it's important and essential to learn that becoming an adult doesn't mean you've got an adult's bank account. Students are stereotyped as impoverished for a reason - you're working for grades not paychecks, and what little money you have usually needs to go to the essentials.
So while there's no harm in using the money you've got, use it carefully, and don't let it run out. Find sources of supplemental income if you can, such as a campus job. Also keep these tips in mind to keep your wallet or purse from running completely dry.
1. Pursue a lot of scholarships. Although you won't find any scholarships that take you to the shoe store, having assistance with the cost of your education can mean fewer or smaller loans for you and even a little extra spending money down the line. They ask for nothing other than the time it takes to apply, so there's no excuse not to take full advantage of scholarship opportunities.
2. Carefully budget food money. While the campus dining hall probably won't win any awards for its cuisine, treat it as your main source of food. Restaurants are expensive, and while having snacks around your dorm room can be useful, they still cost money. Figure out which college meal plan fits your budget best.
3. Buy textbooks used. The school bookstore will charge you full price for new textbooks, and even used copies will be marked up. Buy books from upperclassmen who have already taken the course instead - you'll get to see the books' conditions ahead of time, and their notes might be useful!
4. Be thrifty at Goodwill, Salvation Army and consignment shops. While you might not want to purchase your full wardrobes from these shops, they will save you a lot of cash on every costume, halloween or themed party you attend over the years.
5. Ask about student discounts. Museums, computers, movie theaters, coffee shops, buses, books, academic software and a whole variety of other activities and purchases can be discounted by showing your student ID. Take advantage of it, since it will only be around for the next few years.
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