Broke? Losing money fast? Wanting or needing to buy something but can’t come up with the money? Well good news. I’m here to help. The following steps will help you save a buck during your time at Franklin College and aid you in avoiding mistakes commonly made by freshmen during their first year on their own.
1. Eat Saga whenever you can.
We can all agree that Saga food is not the greatest. However, the meals offered to you on a regular basis are free and covered on your meal plan, so use them. Avoid eating out just because your friends want to go and make sure the groceries you buy are things that you are actually going to eat.
2. Get a work study job.
Another great way to keep money in your pocket is to get a job on campus. Franklin offers many work study jobs that pay minimum wage and also allow you to do your homework while on the clock, so take advantage of this opportunity.
3. Save your money.
Many college students make the mistake of spending every paycheck they make. My advice? Set up a direct deposit with FC’s business office so that your checks will go directly to your savings account back home and you won’t be tempted to spend every penny you earn.
4. Don’t carry more cash than you need.
One of the biggest mistakes I made during my first year of college was cashing my checks, then keeping all of the money in my wallet. This was a mistake because every time I was out and saw a cute shirt or a yummy ice cream cone, I knew I had the money to buy it, so I did. Then, when it came time to go to the grocery store or buy something important, I wouldn’t have the cash. So, don’t carry more money than necessary because you will want to spend it all, trust me.
5. Only stick to the necessities.
Do you really need those new Nikes or that cute top? Probably not. When you’re out with friends or shopping, really think about what you are buying. A lot of us have the tendency to impulse shop or buy something just because we feel like we need it right at that very moment. So next time you’re out and about, really think about what you are buying and if it will be put to good use or just collect dust on one of your shelves.
There are many other ways to save money during college, but these five methods should get you on the fast track of saving. Also, please take these seriously because I promise you that being broke in college is no fun at all.
