College is often described as "the best years of your life." You are surrounded by thousands of people your age that all want to enjoy life before it comes back to bite them in the tail, and the biting usually involves the money you spent "living life" and yelling "YOLO." While you're in school however, there are ways to avoid the ever haunting words of college debt.
1. Shop Generic.
You're in college. You don't need to live high off the hog. That's for when you go home on break and when you're rolling in the dough during retirement.
2. Ditch Your Car.
Take the bus. The real risk here is catching an illness from one of the locals sleeping in the backseat, so the only question is, is risking an emergency room visit better than a tank of gas? I'd say yes.
3. Win A Contest.
You know all those pop-ups telling you that you could win $5,000 a week for life that come up as you're researching the topic of your paper in the library? SIGN UP. Imagine what you could do with 5 grand a week...
Be wary of looming viruses when clicking these pop-ups.
4. Re-Use Textbooks.
This has twice the incentive. You save money from buying them new PLUS all the important text is already highlighted. Who needs to study when you have all the answers.
5. Drink Specials.
All bars have them, the "Two for One Tuesdays" or the "Thirsty Thursdays," by going out on these nights as opposed to Fridays or Saturdays you can save upwards of thousands over your college career. It also helps to have a friend that will buy you drinks instead.
6. Shop Like You're On A Budget.
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Ever wonder why old fashion become trendy again? Because broke college kids need something to put on their backs, even if it was pulled from Grandad's attic over Thanksgiving break.
7. Get A Job?
Now you have boatloads of spare time from the study time you've saved by using your re-purposed textbooks. This would make Dad happy too, right?
8. Don't Eat Out.
Just tell your friends you got sick eating at that restaurant, they'll understand. If they insist, go to lunch or happy hour, many restaurants drop prices during the day.
9. Skip The Gym.
Having a gym membership can really add up month after month. If you absolutely need the workout, re-arrange your furniture; that stuff is pretty heavy.
10. Make Your Own Coffee.
Many coffee shops charge too much for a cup of java, making your own brew can save you a lot over time.
11. Volunteer.
Instead of going to Cancun or Panama Beach and blowing hundreds, you can take the less expensive route and do volunteer work for those in need. Plus, if you plan accordingly, the place you do so at could be near the beach anyhow.
12. Change Your Diet.
Trying to shop with 12 cents? Two words: Ramen Noodles. Also cooking at home can save you tons of cash.
13. Pay On Time.
Rent and bills are due on a certain date for a reason. Make sure to pay on time to avoid getting billed extra in late fees.
14. Scholarships.
Sign up for any grants and scholarships, who doesn't like free money?
15. Stay In.
Don't go out to the movies or to see that great band play, you can see the same shows on TV in the comfort of your home for little cost.
There are plenty more ways to save money while in school, but these are the ones that I have found to actually help my wallet (except for number 3).
