We are all poor. Its what being a college student is about and figuring out how to save money is absolutely vital. Its not always easy when theres take out food, drinks, and not to mention Amazon tempting you at every turn so heres a few ways I have been able to successfully pinch pennies:
1. Always ALWAYS split food with friends when possible.
This way you will get to be a part of the fun, but you won't spend 10 million dollars.
2. Do not grocery shop until the last possible moment.
If you only have noodles and hot sauce left in the fridge then noodles and hot sauce it is for dinner. It may get boring sometimes eating the same meals over and over but it'll be worth it when the money you save goes towards a fun night out.
3. Pay in change.
Never underestimate the power of a quarter. If you are just running up to the store for some milk or a water bottle use your change. It's so easy to waste money by letting change collect at the bottom of your pockets.
4. Buy used.
From textbooks to iclickers and notebooks always look for a used option. If you have a notebook from last year that isn't full yet use it until you need a new one.
5. Sell old books and clothes on university buy&sell pages.
If you search the name of your school and buy/sell on Facebook you will be able to join groups that are basically Craigslist, but easier.
6. When you go home round up as much supplies as you can.
Soup cans, cereal, and other groceries are always in the back of your pantry and they can get you through some of those tight weeks.
7. Don't buy drinks when you're out.
Once you turn 21 it's easy to buy a beer at every dinner or grab drinks with friends at the bar, but that is where you lose most of your money. Instead buy your drinks at the grocery store and make them at home.
It wont always be easy, but you've got to make it through somehow. Pinch your pennies and stretch your dollars folks, one day we'll have real jobs and hopefully some change to spare.
