College has been the best four years of my life. It has taught be how to be independent, make real world business connections, prepare me for my career; but most importantly taught me how to manage my finances.
Moving off campus is when I really learned how to manage my money. The main thing is to prioritize when and what you spend your money on. You can have nice things and do fun activities while still making ends meet in college. Here are a few tips and tricks I have learned throughout my four years at college.
Step 1: Pay your bills and rent first.
Before you go out and splurge with your friends this weekend, make sure the essentials, like the cost of living are paid for. Then you can estimate how much money you have left over for the month.
Step 2: Plan, Plan, Plan
As college students I know we all procrastinate from time to time, but setting aside money each month for extra spending can help prioritize and see if you can have that brunch or eat at that fancy restaurant you've been wanting to try.
After you have mastered these two steps, there are some small adjustments you can make to have you feeling like you are living your best life.
Tip 1: DIY
You can diy your dorm/apartment decorations and clothes at such an inexpensive cost. You don't have to be super crafty, as long as YOU like the decorations you put in your new home.
Tip 2: Happy Hour
Probably the second favorite phrase a college student loves to here besides the word "free." There are so many great deals, not only for drinks but for food as well. Happy hour is the best hour no matter what age.
Tip 3: Coupons
Not to sound like a mom, but I take full advantage of the coupons I receive in the mail. Don't know what to cook this week? Look at your grocery store sales paper to find the best deals for that dinner inspiration.
Tip 4: Reuse that Starbucks cup
This is for my coffee lovers, especially Starbucks lovers that want to have that status symbol. Save your cup and that $4-5 you spend daily and reuse it with coffee you make at home. Shhh...no one will know the difference!
Tip 5: Paint your own nails
I love being pampered at the nail salon, but that adds up over time. Paint your own nails at home and turn on some meditation music to feel like you're at the spa. You can even make it a girls night with some friends.
Tip 6: YouTube is your best friend
Don't know how to do something? Want to learn something new? I guarantee you can find a YouTube tutorial on it. The best part is, it's FREE. From computer programs to hair care, you can find a video on it.
With these small changes you can go from "help me I'm poor" to feeling like Beyoncé and slayin' the game.
