5. Don’t Bring What You Can’t Afford to Spend
Let’s be honest, we all know college is notorious for partying. Additionally, we may range
from the “hard-core party starter” to the “mild socially accepted wallflower.” What every
your style is, have fun but I advise taking cash only. For example, leave you credit and debit
cards at home, if possible, and only take a set amount that works for your budget. You
can’t spend what you don’t have.
6. Make a Savings Pledge and Stick to It
My savings pledge is to put back at least $10 to $20 per check in savings. A “savings range”
such as that allows you some wiggle room per check/allowance. Can you think of
something you would like to save up for? I highly suggest putting money aside for the future.
College life can throw us curve-balls. Protect yourself and start saving now.
7. Bargain Shopping
I love a great sale. My favorite app right now is Polyvore because I get turned on to great
new trends and sales in the US and all over the world. Don’t be afraid to pass up that really
expensive item today that may go on sale next week. Another great way to save while in
college is to buy things out of season. I like to stock up on wardrobe staples while they are
discounted in the off season. We need to buy things, but we should hold ourselves
accountable for staying within our budget.
8. Reward Yourself
Perhaps I saved the best for last. It is healthy to have a reward system in place for achieving
your goals. As I’ve mentioned throughout this article, create and stay accountable to a
budget. An option is set a timeframe of about three pay periods/allowances. If you
successfully stay within your budget, plan to splurge on that designer bag you have been
eyeballing. Or plan a special date or outing.
As a college student, I want this to be
the best years of my life. Budgeting
helps me to utilize my funds in the
best possible way. Making my money
work in my favor, rather than boring a
hole in my pocket, definitely takes
some stress off from the rigors of
college life. Remember, we all come
from different backgrounds, so a
personalized budget allows you to
have a great time within your means.
Bethany Camille James is an Anthropology major
at Colorado State University. She is currently in
her Junior year.
Artwork by: Tina Degen
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