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Hey everyone. Frannie here. As I’m always concerned about my education, I was thinking the other day (albeit a little prematurely) about college. For students, especially in the current economic climate, college can be a financially harrowing experience. Student aid only goes so far, and most kids are living away from home for the first time during college and it can be tough for them to make their own monetary decisions. So I spoke with some of my older relatives who have already gone through the whole college brouhaha and came up with what I felt were the three most important ways to save money in college. So without further ado……
Buy used textbooks. New textbooks are ridiculously expensive, you only use them for a year, and just like a car, the resale value is remarkably low. You can buy used textbooks from the school bookshop or from a retailer off-campus for a fraction of the cost in most cases. You get the same information in either case, so go for the cheaper option.
Take advantage of the campus’ free activities. Catching the free play in the quad or the free concert in town are great ways to go out, be social and have a good time without having to spend a great deal of money. A lot of times these free get-togethers are hosted by the student government, so keep up to date with them and save some cash.
Stay busy. The best way to avoid reckless spending is to not give yourself time to go out and spend. Focus on your schoolwork, spend time in the library, whatever it takes. Keeping yourself occupied and focused on school (which is what you’re there for anyways) is a great way to avoid unnecessary costs. Plus you’ll get better grades! You know your parents will love that!
What do you think? These are my personal favorites, but I know that a lot of readers have already navigated through those rocky collegiate times and have a lot of great ideas of their own. Share them! See you all tomorrow!
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{ 5 comments… read them below or add one }
yeah university is rocky road,
but as in icecream;/
it pays in the end.
Haha. Mmmmm…… Rocky Road ice cream.
You’re right though – the payoffs can be great.
Take advantage of the health services offered on campus before going off-campus. Usually the health center has flu vaccines, counseling, dental services, eye exams, etc. at a much, much lower cost then going off campus. Also most campus health centers will accept insurance.
Great tip. There are so many services offered by colleges and universities that can save students money. Campus health is a great example–healthcare can get expensive on a student budget.
Thanks!
and a nice tax return;/