No one can prepare for the lifestyle of a full-time college student. I knew going to college meant being somewhat broke, but it seems like there is always something to pay for when it comes to going out on the weekends and grocery shopping. Getting a job would be an obvious solution to the problem, but even that doesn't feel like enough at times. This is especially difficult when you are craving Chick-fil-A or Chinese food over the weekend. After learning my own money-spending lessons and gaining some insight from my Twitter followers, I have a few tips on how to save money and budget yourself.

Limit the number of times you eat out every week.

Whether you choose to only eat once a week or only on the weekends, set up a system for yourself. This will keep you from spending crazy amounts of money on food every day. An easy way to limit this is to go food shopping and cook during the week. For those who can't chef it up in the kitchen, it is never too late to learn how to make some basic pasta or chicken dishes.

"Act like you're broke, even if you aren't."

This is a great piece of advice that I got from one of my Twitter followers. Develop an "I need to be frugal" mentality that will help you both in college and in the long run.

"Buy what you need more so than what you want."

We all have our own definitions of what is important and what isn't, but I'm talking about the essentials -- groceries, toiletries, medications and rent. It's cool to buy a new pair of shoes occasionally, but don't make it an every week thing if you have a budget to stick to.

Find cheaper solutions for weekend outings.

Instead of always going out to dinner, have movie nights with your friends. Trade in the money you spend on parties every weekend and have a pot luck. If you are fortunate enough to go to school in Philadelphia, there are all types of student discounts at museums and sporting events. There are a number of inexpensive activities for the weekends; you just have to look a bit closer.

"Off-brands are just as good as name brands."

This is another suggestion from one of my Twitter followers that really made me think. I am guilty of sticking to certain brands when it comes to food products and clothes, but in reality, most of these items have an off-brand that is cheaper. Butter, toilet tissue, jeans and cleaning products are all fine without the popular branding on it.

"Learning how to save now will prepare you for life after college."

This is more so a piece of advice for the future than a money-saving tip. This was said by one of my followers who is graduating in May, and I couldn't agree more. Figuring out ways to save money now will surely help 10 years from now.