With spring break 2017 just around the corner, many college students are struggling with an ever absent bank account. I'm not trying to scare you! We still have the entire month of February to earn a few extra bucks, so I've found a few ways YOU can save money.

1. Babysit

Babysitting is one of the easiest (okay maybe not THE easiest) and most rewarding things you can do! I really recommend babysitting for families on Friday and weekend evenings. Parents work long hours and like to go out with their friends once in a while. It's not rocket science: feeding the kids supper, playing with them, and putting them to bed. You basically watch over the kids and house while the family is out. Another bonus is being able to get some studying done while the kids sleep!

2. Recycle your old phone

I rececntly found out that there are some electronics companies that will pay you money to take your old phone. I mean, you're not using it anyway. Might as well get some money instead of watching your old phones collect dust bunnies. Try checking out: www.gazelle.com/Gazelle/Sell‎ !

3. Become an Uber/Lyft driver

After a few requirements, you could become an Uber/Lyft driver and be making more than a few extra dollars in your spare time! Plus you get to meet lots of people, and if you like driving/sightseeing that's an extra bonus!

The requirements:

1. 4-door sedan, must seat 4 or more passengers excluding driver.
2. Year 2001* or newer.
3. In-state plates.
4. No marked, taxi, or salvaged vehicles.
5. Pass Uber vehicle inspection.
6. The car must be currently registered, but your name does not have to be on the registration.

Check out Uber and Lyft websites for more information:

www.idrivewithuber.com/uber-driver-requirements/

www.lyft.com/Uber_Drivers/Join_Lyft‎

4. Don't eat out, Invite people over

Instead of eating out during the week, which can be pretty expensive if you add it up, try inviting people over for a pot luck! Everyone can bring over something to eat, and you can socialize for as long as you want! You can easily cook a meal for under $10, and save money on going out! Also, bringing snacks to class/work really helps one to avoid the vending machines and fast food lanes. I like to pack snacks the night before and have them ready to go when I leave the house in the morning.

5. Sell your clothes

I'm sure we all have a few clothing items that we don't wear, or that just don't fit anymore! Make room in your closet and get rid of it! There are plenty of places that will pay you for gently used clothes, or you can sell them on multiple websites yourself! You could even have a small garage sale!

6. Sell old books

Let's get real, we all have 50 pounds of burdens (textbooks) that could easily be lifted off our shoulders. Maybe a few books we just didn't enjoy reading?

Here are some websites that buy books:

www.sellbackyourbook.com/Sell_Textbook

www.bookscouter.com/

www.cash4books.net/

7. Sell handmade items on Etsy

It's not all hot glue guns and popsicle sticks! If you are gifted in the art of crafts, try selling your handmade products on Etsy! I love knitting and I'm always open to making things for people! Crafting also helps relieve stress. Joy!

8. Complete online surveys

There are even some companies out there that will pay you to take their online surveys! How neat! You can even stay in your pajamas at home!

9. Become a pet sitter/house sitter

Another easy and fun way to earn money is watching someone's pets or home! You get to play with animals and pretend they are yours for a few days!

10. Ask for a raise

One of the most scary, yet basic ways to earn more cash is to ask your employer for a raise. If you make a strong case for why you deserve a raise sooner rather than later, there is no harm in trying!

At the end of the day, just trying to keep your spending low will also help you save a few extra bucks for that amazing spring break just around the bend! I hope some of these ideas were helpful and you'll find your pockets a little fuller this month! Good luck to everyone, and I hope your Spring Break 2017 is the most amazing one yet!