Dear Parents,
I'm sure you are all tired of getting the phone calls that your kid needs more money. You will think to yourself, "Didn't I just give her $100 last week?!" And although it may seem impossible that one person can spend so much money in a short amount of time, I can assure you that it is very, very possible.
1. Uber is expensive.
Without a car, us college freshmen are stranded on campus. If we want to go to the mall, grab a bite to eat, or just go to the grocery store, Uber is the only way to get there. If any of you are getting ready to go to college next year, start saving up for your Uber bills now (because they add up fast!).
2. Sometimes we want some real food.
Okay, eating in the dinning hall isn't all that bad, but sometimes the typical pasta line and steamed veggies gets a little old. Without our parent's cooking, we crave those home-style meals we love.3. If your roommates order take-out, you will probably want to too.
It's a vicious cycle. It's late at night, the dinning halls are closed, and nobody had time to eat dinner. Once your roommate picks up the Chinese takeout menu, you know it's game over.
4. You end up impulsively buying things you don't need.
Sometimes you need to buy that ugly Christmas sweater for college holiday festivities. You probably won't ever wear it again, but you just HAVE to have it.
5. College apparel is expensive.
Although you may only need to pick up some pencils at the bookstore, you'll probably end up dropping $75 on a sweatshirt too.
So for those students out there that have a pretty low account balance, don't panic. Your weekend plans don't always have to be expensive. Many college campuses offer fun, alternative activities on the weekends that are FREE!
Most importantly, it's okay to say no to plans because your funds are low. Your friends will understand, because at the end of the day, we are all college students living on a budget. So check your balance regularly, and don't blow through $100 dollars in one week. Your bank account will thank you!
P.S. Parents, we are doing our best!