As a college student, the importance of working a summer job or a job over break is eating noodles all week or being able to actually eat halfway through the semester. As July is rolling along the number of paychecks is dwindling. If you have been saving all summer like myself through various methods. Possibly you were focused on paying bills and are now running around in a panic.
There's no doubt that going to college is expensive and one of the most expensive time is the beginning of the semester. But with these money-saving tips, the stress of the beginning of the semester will be lessened.
1.) Minimize Expenses
I know this one is no fun to hear, but with time running out you may need to cut back some. Also, remember these cutbacks are only temporary and to help you stash away as much cash as possible.
2.) Round-Up/Change Matters
Keep all of your change. Stash it in a jar or even an old piggy bank. You will be surprised how this will quickly collect. I'm not claiming that you will be rich overnight. Although by rounding up your purchases when you cash out. Paying $5.00 for a total of $4.50 you can quickly collect change. It is just a matter of saving change and avoiding using it.
3.) Pay Yourself First
This method is often preached in money-saving classes but I do believe it is a beneficial one. With each paycheck make sure to pay yourself first. Before you pay your bill try to save some in a saving account, or even a shoe box who cares just save it. It doesn't have to be a lot, every little bit will add up in the end. I try to save around $20 from every check when possible when it's not at least $10. No matter what I always make sure something goes towards savings.
4.) Planning
If you have bills to pay as I do, it's important to plan them out. This prevents late fees which is money thrown away or that could have gone to another bill. With this in mind use your money wisely. If you have a lot of credit card debt, it would be wise to focus on paying that off before the semester starts. It is always good to have an emergency fund and for many, that's what credit cards and savings are designated to.
5.) Less is More
It's not too late to minimize your belongings and sell what you don't need or use anymore. There is plenty of time to plan a yard sale or you can even go to a pawn shop or local game stop. If you have clothes to sell there are plenty of apps that can assist you in that. If you work diligently less things can be more money for you.
6.) It Summer
So have a good time and make sure to enjoy yourself. It's important to save money but remember your worth is not determined by how much money you make or how much you have. Whether you save $1,000 for next semester or $50 your still a step ahead then if you spent it all.
