Whether you're a college student with a job and you're trying to save that money for something worthwhile, or you're like me and don't have a job but manage to live day-by-day off of random money you find in your flannel pockets, you're probably struggling to spend money. Maybe you're not, but for the rest of us who have this phobia of spending money because, well, we literally don't have any, we can rest assured!
College is all about the experiences and the embarrassing moments and the new friends you'll make because of those embarrassing moments. Those moments can most definitely include losing a $20 bill at a frat party and crawling around on the floor with the "frat sludge," only to find that said bill the next morning in your flannel pocket. (At least I found it, right?!)
Here are a few reasons why you shouldn't be afraid to spend money while you're in college, even if you feel like "breaking the bank" means spending $1.50 on a soda from a vending machine.
1. Once in a lifetime experiences!
Whether you want to think of this cliche statement or not, college is the best time of your life. There are so many opportunities to get involved and develop your sense of self. If you're debating whether or not to book that flight for a wild vacation with some college buds, I suggest you do it. If you have the money saved and the willingness to let go of a couple hundred bucks, make the most of your time and relax!
2. Missing out on all the fun
Nobody wants to hear, "You should've come; it was awesome!" (especially if they weren't invited). But, if you were invited, you probably should've went. My two close friends decided to buy tickets to Firefly, which is an outdoor music festival in Dover, DE, and I have never regretted not buying something more. Not only am I missing out on seeing some of my favorite bands, but I'm missing the experience I would've had with some cool people, especially those I haven't met yet and won't have the chance to because I won't be there. FOMO, aka the fear of missing out, is a real thing, people.
3. Gaining adulthood experience
Talking to people and putting yourself outside of your comfort zone are two things that are bound to happen frequently. I've never been an awkward person, but let me tell you, I've had some terribly awkward moments since coming to college, and I haven't had anyone there to get me out of those situations. Usually my mother comes to my rescue, especially when I want to return an item, since she doesn't take no for an answer.
College has forced me to return my own items, buy my own necessities, such as tampons and pads, and stick up for myself when someone doesn't take my damn coupon. Becoming an adult means budgeting your own money. It also means knowing what you can and can't afford, especially when you're standing in the grocery store looking at cookies but knowing you need to buy carrots and hummus instead so you can veg out late at night.
4. Making meaningful relationships
"Wanna get lunch?" is a typical thing that is heard within the adult world. Maybe it's a new friend from class who wants to grab coffee or maybe it's you asking your professor to look over your resume with you at a local dive; you will be asked this at least once in your life, guaranteed. Although the gesture is small, it can definitely turn into something big, such as an extremely meaningful relationship. You could potentially miss out on these opportunities if you decide that spending two bucks on a cup of joe is too much for your broke-college-kid budget. Get out there and get networking!
5. Becoming independent
Don't be afraid to explore your new-found independence in college with the little money that you have! Most universities, big and small, will have places -- food places or shopping places -- where you can spend your hard-earned cash. The worst thing you can do is deprive yourself of the things you want all the time. You're in college, you don't live with your parents anymore (technically), so trying not to spend any money is sort of impossible. Nobody can live entirely off of dining hall food -- and nobody should, honestly.
Ditch the notion that spending money at college isn't tasteful and hit the Tech instead. While you're on your study grind, grab yourself a drink from the 24 hour Starbucks before you start writing that paper due at 8 a.m. the next day -- they take Diamond Dollars!
