Leaving for campus or college is one of the most exhilarating experience for any youngster. It spells out freedom, new and fun experiences and independence; a different world from the authority of parents. But of course, no coin is one-sided, with freedom responsibilities always tag along; it is inevitable. One of the main challenges for a college student, especially one who is straight from the parent's or guardian's care, is managing their finances. It is imperative for each and every student to learn how to manage their budget and live within their means. Poor financial management may lead to dire consequences including bad debt and engaging in various illegal activities. So here are some few tips on how to make your budget work for you.
SOME TIPS ON HOW TO MOVE ON A COLLEGE BUDGET
1. Many are the time that the pocket-money is barely enough to see a student through an entire semester. Of course most of the time when drafting the budget with the parent it is enough for a complete semester with even some little surplus. But a little parting here and there, two or three designer shoes and the money mysteriously disappears. Discipline is key. Make a realistic budget at the beginning of the semester and stick to it.
2. There are a number of companies that have introduced student discount cards. For only $20, students get to enjoy amazing discounts for some of the most basic commodities. And of course for a student, a nice flashy phone and tickets to major events fall in the category of necessities.
3. Eating food in restaurants or cafes on a daily basis may be quite expensive for a student. Most dorms have common cooking areas and hence one need not have sleepless nights worrying about gas and electricity bills. Cooking not only helps saves a big chunk of money, but it's also healthier.
4. Most students hardly take time to go through their fees structure. It may come as a shocker, but some of the things they pay for privately are fully taken care of in the school fees. This includes things like medical bills, trips, entertainment events among others. It always important to be up-to-date with campus events and take full advantage instead of having to pay for the same services elsewhere.
5. Students have loads of stuff that they don't necessarily need. These includes, learning materials, clothing, jewelry, electronics the list is endless. Well, some claim that some of these things have some sentimental value. There are a number of platforms, mainly online, that help students to sell the things that they don't need. There is also the option of renting learning materials with sites such as Half.com and chegg.com offering this service.
One of the most enjoyable and memorable period of one's life is definitely campus life. Don't make yours a nightmare by burdening yourself with unnecessarily financial burdens, save that for later when one has a family to support and numerous bills to pay. You can be pretty sure the financial pressure will keep you on your toes at that time.
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