College is a major investment that can offer high returns for students upon graduation. However, during the college years, finances can sometimes become difficult to manage. While attending classes, it can be hard to earn enough money to pay for basic necessities such as rent, food and textbooks. In many cases, once these have been paid for, students discover that they are unable to put any money away to save. This does not have to be the case, however, as there are many areas in which a student can implement simple changes that will help them to be able to save money without cutting back on their academic or social lives.
Get a Roommate
Sharing a living space with someone else instantly cuts many of the bills in half. Roommates split rent, utilities and even can share the budget for food. Since many students do not need a large amount of space for themselves, this arrangement can work quite nicely. Dorms or small apartments tend to work best for roommates, and it is important to mention that students should always outline their expectations before living with someone else. When everyone communicates well, a roommate can be a source of friendship and a way to begin saving money in college. In addition to the money savings, students who are both working toward a bachelor of arts degree can help each other with assignments and projects.
Attend Community Events
For many college students, entertainment is a major expense. However, most universities and colleges host special events for their students to attend such as public speakers and game nights. The local community is also a great resource for free and low cost activities. Community libraries often hold book readings and discussions while local parks often have concerts or movies under the stars. Students can also take advantage of the recreation departments in both their school and their community to gain access to gym equipment, classes and swimming pools.
Buy Used Textbooks
The required reading materials in college courses often include expensive textbooks that are never used again once the course is over. For example, a course that is required to earn a bachelor of communication may require several expensive books that a student may hardly even need to read. However, used textbooks can often be purchased at half the price of a brand new one. Additionally, a student who is taking the same course as a friend can share a textbook and split the cost. Once the course is completed, selling textbooks back to the bookstore can result in additional money for the student.
Saving money in college is necessary to be financially prepared after graduation. While it may seem challenging, once a few simple ideas are implemented into a student's lifestyle, money can begin to be saved. Sharing expenses with a roommate, taking advantage of community resources and buying used items when possible are simple changes that can add up to big savings for college students.
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Jim Cantrell is a lifestyle blogger who blogs on a wide variety of topics including geekery, technology and education. His style of writing is ecclectic and varied. If you want to know more about college education, visit http://www.bond.edu.au/degrees-and-courses/index.htm and read about our fields of study that can help you achieve a successful career.
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