Simple Tips to Help You Save in College
Congratulations! You’ve made it through graduation and are enjoying time with family and friends before heading off to school in a few short months. Your first year of college can be such an exciting time, maybe you’re headed out of state, maybe it’s your first time living on your own, or your first time being financially independent. Whatever first you are getting ready to experience, be sure to keep your finances in check! Don’t let your new found independence be an excuse to skyrocket into debt. We’ve put together some simple tips to help you save your first year in college.
Apply for Scholarships
You may have applied for your fair share of scholarship programs over the course of your senior year but did you know that you can continue to apply for them while you’re currently in school? You don’t have to be a mathematical genius or a profound musician to qualify. There are hundreds of scholarships out there for all different skill sets. Do your research and apply for as many scholarships as you can throughout your college career. It’s never too late to save on tuition!
Always Ask for Student Discounts
When you begin your first semester you will be issued a college email address and most times a student ID. Take full advantage of these precious items! You’ll be able to get all sorts of discounts on everything from utility bills, movie tickets, and more. You can also qualify for discounts on clothing and at local eatery’s like Subway and Pizza Hut. So no matter what your Student Photo ID looks like, keep it handy and take full advantage of all the perks it has to offer.
Rent Books Instead of Buying Them
That’s right, you can rent your school books instead of buying them. Sites like www.amazon.com offer students the ability to rent their books for the semester and then return them. A text book that would typically cost you $100+ to buy, you can rent for as little as $30. Plus, students can get a 50% discount on an amazon prime membership and get free shipping and returns for rented school books. Imagine all the money that you could save on books alone.
Get a Part Time Job or Paid Internship
No matter how much you budget and penny pinch you are more likely to be more financially responsible when you are making your own money. Having a part time job can add to the whole college experience. Find a job that correlates with your education goals or something enjoyable to help catapult your social experience. Taking on a part time work schedule will help you save more money, teach you fiscal responsibility and allow you to break free from the books once in a while to enjoy yourself. Internships are another great way to gain college credits and real life experience in your field of study. Look for paid internships that are available so that you can make a few extra bucks while also advancing your college education.
As you begin this exciting new chapter of your life, remember these simple tips to help you save your first year in college. School can be a fun and exciting time in your life but also an important time to save money and learn financial responsibility.