Since summer will soon be coming to an end (sad to say but true), it’s time to start thinking of ways that you can cut back and get ready for school to begin! I myself am no longer a student, but when I was a student in college it was certainly expensive. If you’re able to go to a community college as opposed to a private university that certainly is helpful, but sometimes you end up getting an education where it best suits you and your preferred major.
Since books and many other supplies are SO expensive, it gets frustrating sometimes in regards to what to cut back on and when to splurge. As a student, things can especially get expensive so it’s up to you to hold on to your hat and do your best. Looking back I wish I would been a bit smarter in my decisions so that I could to cut back more. This would have been better as opposed to spending money on things I really didn’t need. When you’re a student this is when you should start socking away money (especially if you have a part time job) because after college you’ll certainly need it! But enough about the expenses of being a student and how I should have been better at saving my money, here are some ideas on how to save as a student. You can learn from my mistakes and my wise decisions too!
Ride a Bike Instead of a Car!
For the first couple of years in college I did not have a car and it saved me a lot of money. For one thing, gas is extremely expensive in California and another, cars cost a lot to take care of, especially if they are a lot older like mine was at the time. So instead of having a car, I got a bike. My bike unfortunately got vandalized, but up to that point it was fun to ride it around on campus and nearby! It saved me a ton of money that otherwise would have spent on gas and repairing my car expenses and it also gave me a lot of exercise, which was nice too. So if you’re considering taking your car across the states, think again because a bike is a much better alternative, at least while you’re getting used to a new school.
Invest in a Mini Fridge as Opposed to Cafeteria Food
Believe it or not but cafeteria food can actually cost more than investing in a small dorm room refrigerator. I remember having a cafeteria food plan and it cost a lot and I never used up my entire plan. I did have a refrigerator and looking back I wish I would have just stuck with that. You can plan healthier meals with a mini fridge and eat fresh fruit, turkey, bread, and other meats. Not to mention you can have delicious yogurt with fruit for a healthy breakfast! No, you usually can’t cook a gourmet meal in your dorm but the basics will take you far if you’re creative.
Stick with the Basics in Your Wardrobe Instead of Buying All New Clothinga
It’s fun to get all new clothing when you head off to school, isn’t it?! Whether you’re planning on buying new clothes for the first time or revamping your wardrobe for your Junior or Senior year, it may be tempting to start off with another new wardrobe. But, before you go on a major shopping spree, look through your closet first and reassess your apparel. You will definitely be able to use the basics and create many ensembles that will still look stylish.
For example, when you’re going to classes on a daily basis you’ll usually feel most comfortable in a favorite pair of jeans and a tee shirt. Add a floral jacket like in the picture above or another basic jacket that you already have in your wardrobe and you’ll be able to create multiple outfits with one or two main articles of clothing. Wondering what my personal favorite comfy apparel is that’s easy to mix and match? Miss Me jeans and Calvin Klein tee-shirts are what I love for long lasting comfort that’s also chic. Plus, Calvin Klein tee-shirts are extremely durable and trendy tees. Pair them with a belt and some playful pieces of jewelry (try Betsey Johnson for a fun college style), and you’ve got some wonderful everyday staples!
So when it’s time to head back to school (I know not yet, but it never hurts to plan ahead!), start thinking of ways that you can cut back. Some ways will be small and some ways will be big, but either way the little choices that you make will definitely help you save money over time. Start being a frugal student and you’ll have excellent results and save a lot of money for your future in the process.
