Saving Tips for Students

Having just graduated a few months ago, I have felt the pain and woes of trying to hold on to the last $20 in my pocket.

I went to school for 3 years at Seneca College in Toronto. And I’d like to help out others that are going or are in college. And since a list is the easiest way to follow my advice.

SCHOOL SUPPLIES:

Looks like those seven textbooks are going to take a toll. Don’t worry, this might help!

1.When it comes to books, see if the school’s bookstore has pre-owned books that they have bought back from students. Chances are you’ll save 10% or more than buying the book new. And once you don’t want it anymore, or your course is done, the store may buy the book back. If you keep them in good condition, you can get half or more of the money back that you spent on the book initially.

2.I was an art student, so I spent a lot of money on supplies like paints and ink. I was lucky to have a Curry’s (an art store) on campus, which sells expensive, and cheaper brands of supplies for art students. And they have back to school sales often in September.

FOOD:

This is my weakness. I love Ben and Jerry’s, and sushi.

1.Learn to cook. Grab a cookbook and buy some groceries. We’re adults now. One of my favorite cook books is one that each recipe has 5 ingredients or less to make a meal, which means saving money. I admit to buying the unnecessary snack once in a while, but all the time is when your pocket gets empty. I check cookingbynumbers which is where you check a list of food that you have, and the website will give you a recipe based on what you checked. It saved me a lot when I couldn’t think of what to cook or was too busy to go to the grocery store. I also saved a lot of recipes from websites. It’s okay once in a while to have Mr. Noodles or grilled cheese once in a while.

2.Don’t get take out or fast food every night. I know it’s hard when it’s 3 AM and you’ve got three essays due, but real food is just as important. I tried to limit myself to fast food once or twice a month. And this counts for the cafeteria at school too. Take a lunch, save money so you can go out for dinner and feel good about it. And you might be able to avoid that “freshman 15”.

EVERYTHING ELSE I CAN THINK OF:

Things that would each have their own category if I let them roam free.

1.The night life is exciting, but drinks are expensive. I enjoyed going out to the local pub with friends, but I’ve met people who drank their money away and couldn’t afford their tuition anymore. Limit how many times you party, you’ve got schoolwork to think of as well.

2. Traveling to see Mom and Dad for free food this weekend? As a student you will have opportunities to many discounts. When traveling home for holidays, check and see if there are student discounts available. (Some discounts might require you to get an ISIC card, which you can get by asking your school).