A “broke college kid” really isn’t a stereotype — it’s the truth. Going to college is expensive. From purchasing overpriced books at the UF Bookstore to buying expensive drinks at 101 Cantina, a collegiette™ can easily find herself trapped in a spending pattern that doesn’t quite fit her lifestyle. But just because college tends to be pricey doesn’t mean you can’t find ways to spend within your means. Here are 10 simple ways you can save a buck in school:
1. Thrift shopping The thrift shop shouldn’t be a place only reserved for Macklemore and old folks. Stylish collegiettes™ can find vintage gems at secondhand stores for half the price of retail stores. Here in Gainesville, I would recommend checking out Urban Thread, a local secondhand store that gives off a similar vibe to Anthropologie but without the hefty price tags. You know what they say — someone’s trash is another person’s treasure!
2. DIY projects If you don’t have a Pinterest account, make one. Following crafty Pinterest boards is the simplest way to get inspired to do fun DIY projects. Learn about reusing toilet paper rolls as tiny lanterns or discover how to make a truly stunning melted crayon canvas instead of heading to the store and buying things to decorate your room with. Not only does creating your own decorations save money, but it also gives you a chance to get creative with your designs!
3. Student discounts Lots of stores give discounts to us struggling college students. J.Crew offers a 15-percent discount to students who show a student ID, and most movie theaters have student-priced tickets. Next time you head to the mall, do some research beforehand on which stores offer a student discount; you might be pleasantly surprised!
4. Coupons Since I came to college, coupons have become my closest friend. I’m not suggesting you attempt to be the star on TLC’s next episode of Extreme Couponing, but checking the paper once a week for what is on sale can save you a lot of money with little effort. Even utilizing the local deals your campus has to offer can make an impact on your wallet. Karma Cream gives each customer a punch card, and after 10 visits, you get a free scoop of ice cream.
5. On-campus studies At big schools like UF, graduate students are always desperate for students to participate in their research studies. These studies often take less than 15 minutes and can pay in anything from $15 for a simple diet analysis to $250 for a more in-depth research analysis. Look into research study opportunities on your campus, and find a study that fits your schedule.
6. Farmers markets Gainesville is lucky to have lots of cute farmers markets readily accessible to students. Buying produce at the farmers market is a really good way to get fresh products for a less expensive price. It’s also a great way to support local businesses with your dollar!
7. Leftovers If you’re like me, you usually have a little bit left of your meal every time you go out. Typically I let the waiter clear my plate and never think about it again, but taking home leftovers is an easy way to save money. It’s two meals for the price of one! Don’t be embarrassed to ask the waiter to bring you a box next time you go out.
8. Beg and borrow The best part of living in a dorm is having 20 other girls to borrow clothes from. If you’ve got a big interview coming up but no blazer to wear, ask to borrow one! Text a friend, call your sorority sister, or talk to your roommate. As long as you give the item back the same way you took it, most people won’t mind. Just make sure you return the favor in the future.
9. Take the bus Taking a cab home from Midtown may be the most convenient option, but it’s also the most expensive. By taking the bus, which is free for all UF students, you save money and still get home safely. It might not be glamorous, but it’s free!
Saving money is all about thinking outside the box. It isn’t easy, but it can be fun to come up with ridiculous ways to save a dollar, and it will prepare you for a real-life budget in the future. Instead of going out to eat, cook a meal with your friends. Go to a free student-run production instead of the movies. There are lots of chances to be thrifty around campus if you’re willing to get innovative. Happy thrifting, collegiettes™!
Photo Credits:www.ru-screwd.com