Many adults consider their college years among the best times of their lives. They’re a time of learning and a time of fun. They’re a time of self-discovery and budding independence. And they’re the last few years before most of us have to fully face up to adult responsibilities.
But the college years can also be a very expensive time. Just going to college costs thousands of dollars, not to mention buying the books you need and taking care of your living expenses. In most cases, parents help foot the bill for their children’s education. But the student is almost always responsible for at least a portion of his expenses, and when you’re working toward a degree, you don’t have a lot of time left over to earn money.
So when you’re in college, it’s a good time to learn how to save money. Here are some tips that will help.
* Buy used textbooks. If you can find the books you need previously used, they will cost much less than they would if you bought them new. Campus bookstores usually carry used books, so you can often find what you need there. If not, check online. You might find them used on a site such as eCampus.com, or you may even be able to rent them for less than it would cost to buy a used copy.
* Carefully consider whether or not you need a car on campus. Driving is more expensive than most of us realize by the time we figure in gas and maintenance. If you can walk, bike or use public transportation to get where you need to go, consider selling your car and putting the money you make, and the money you save by not driving, away for expenses.
* Avoid eating out as much as possible. It doesn’t hurt to go to a restaurant with friends on occasion, but if you do it every week (or several times a week) it can get very expensive. Purchase a meal plan from the school and use it as much as possible, and keep snacks and sandwich making supplies in your dorm room.
* Look for deals on clothing, sheets and other necessities. Check second-hand stores and garage sales for gently used items at low prices, and shop clearance sales at your favorite stores. You can also find good deals on such items on eBay.
When you’re in college, every penny counts. Instead of trying to work more hours than you should and letting your studies suffer, look for ways to save money on the things you need and cut back on the things you don’t. This will help you get through college, and it will serve you well when you’re out on your own.
