el Don V. 92 No. 1 | Page 6

el Don /SANTA ANA COLLEGE • MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014/eldonnews.org STYLE B ack-to-school season can leave wallets empty. The need for supplies, a new wardrobe and the cost of classes make fall an expensive time of year. Here’s a few tips on how to make sure getting a degree doesn’t completely drain your bank account. BRING A LUNCH Packing something to eat between classes will keep you from buying vending machine snacks, which can add up. Skipping Cheetos for a paper bag meal will keep your stomach and pockets full. el Don /SANTA ANA COLLEGE • MONDAY, AUGUST 25, 2014/eldonnews.org GAS STATION COFFEE 6 That extra expresso shot, caramel sauce and whipped cream can cost you upwards of $5 for a cup and runs the risk of creating a daily habit. If you need caffiene, gas stations and 7-11 have different brews you can customize into a replica mocha for under $2. CUTTING COSTS BY KATIE PORTER / el Don TEST PAPER TEXTBOOKS BACKPACKS SAVE YOUR DATA Find out how many quizzes there will be and which scan forms your professor uses. Vending machines sell bulk packs for $1.50 to $2.50. The bookstore (U-125) buys some textbooks back for up to half of selling rates. Amazon offers up to 80 percent in gift cards. Large purses and briefcases make for great school bags with lots of pockets. Check thrift shops or the Goodwill for discount digs. Hook up your phone to wifi while you are at places that offer it, like school and work. Connecting for the long hours there can save money on data charges, which can add up quickly.