by Michelle B. Smith

Created on: September 08, 2009

While not having money in college seems to be a rite of passage, breaking the cycle is easier than it appears. Think of all the benefits behind saving money and reducing spending while in college. Gaining that dreaded freshman 10, 15 or 20 will be a lot harder if you are regulating your food shopping. There are many simple and fun ways to reduce spending that are available to you while in college.

If you are not allowed to have a car on campus during your freshman year, do not worry because most schools offer shuttle buses. The shuttle buses are often free and take students to popular areas such as shopping centers and movie theaters. Saving money on public transportation and gas can add up substantially in very little time. If you have had your eye on that new car, try saving those funds to finance your new ride.

Student discounts are just an I.D. card away. Students receive some of the best discounts and extras. Just because you are trying to save does not mean that you have to miss out. Local shows, concerts and events target area college students by giving them free or reduced pricing. To find what discounts are offered to you, call your campus concierge or student services department.

Another way to increase your fun while decreasing the price is to plan ahead. With a party or club event occurring multiple times per week, buy tickets early. Have you ever wondered why those flyers have contact numbers? Many times there is a person on your campus selling tickets in advance for a reduced price. This will save you money and time when you arrive at the club with your ticket in hand. If the club scene is not your idea of fun, join a student group on campus. These groups receive a portion of funding from the university so many of the activities will be low priced or free. Joining groups will give you the opportunity to widen your social circle on a fixed budget.

If the issue of basic necessities is causing you to overspend, reevaluate what you need versus what you want. Takeout and fast food have become a staple of the college student diet. However, spending on junk food daily will leave you hungry and broke. Buy groceries if your dorm has a community kitchen. You can make cooking a dorm activity so that everyone can support you in your quest to save. If you are not required to have a meal plan at school, cancel this overpriced fee and cook. Buying certain items in bulk is also helpful. Toilet paper, water bottles and hygiene products are all items to buy in

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>