How to Save Money as a Freshman

Freshmen, let’s be real: college is expensive—like start selling your body parts expensive. That phrase “it cost an arm and a leg” totally applies to #collegelife. After paying for tuition, room and board, books, and oh-so-much more you will find yourself strapped for cash. When that happens (and it inevitably will) you may want to consult our list of dos and don’ts about managing your money on a college student budget.

DO: Buy or rent used books from Amazon.

It’s no secret that college bookstores pretty much exist to rip you off (as if you weren’t already paying enough to merely attend the school). Well, luckily Amazon Student helps you get the most bang for you buck.

DON’T: Preorder your books from the bookstore.

Seriously, don’t preorder your books from the bookstore! Despite the numerous emails you will receive from Drexel’s Barnes & Noble persuading you to order your books before the first day of class rolls around, stay strong. Take it from the students who have been there and done that, you do not need to have your textbooks planted perfectly on your desk for the professor. In fact, most people will encourage you to wait until class has started and talk to your professor about cheaper book options.

DO: Utilize your meal plan.

(Image courtesy of: https://foodleratd.files.wordpress.com/2014/05/img_0415.jpg)

Now, now I understand that the thought of the Hans doesn’t necessarily make your mouth water and the Northside Dining Terrace isn’t all that either. But since you’re a freshman, having a meal plan is required so you might as well make the most of it. If you need inspiration, click here! It may not be the most appetizing, but it’s food that you can pay for with a swipe of your DragonCard. 

DON’T: Be afraid to eat out every once in a while.

Yes, your meal plan is in place at least for this year, but that doesn’t mean you should skimp on treating yourself every once in a while. Grab your girlfriends once a month for a nice dinner out or use that $5 bill you found at the bottom of your bag to try that food truck you’ve been eyeing! Limiting yourself to a few times per month will allow you to plan ahead and collect the cash before you come up short of the bill.

DO: Put money away to cover your personal expenses.

Unless your parents made you hit up Costco for the supersized bottles of shampoo, conditioner, and body lotion, your personal-size bottles might not cut it for nine months of living on your own. You may very well run out once you’ve squeezed every last drop out of your shampoo. When it’s time to stock up, nothing’s worse than having to hit up your parents for cash. So, be sure to include personal expenses in your finances. Put $2 a week in a jar for grocery shopping and you won’t need to worry about running out of tampons (yikes!).

DON’T: Over-do it with the college gear.

(Image courtesy of: https://www.universityparent.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/Drexel-U.-Barnes-and-Noble-Bookstore-p.jpg)

Not only does the bookstore have overpriced textbooks, but they also have really expensive sweatshirts, T-shirts, and sweatpants. Yes, that “Drexel Dragons” tank top is adorable. No, you don’t need to add it to your collection of 10 other Drexel tank tops. Wait for a sale, then snag that half-zip you’ve been coveting.

DO: Split the cab fare with your girls.

Walks to UPenn’s campus to search for parties are nice in the beginning of the school year when the weather is not too hot or too cold. But, when the first snow falls, the struggle to walk all the way there (and back) becomes increasingly intimidating. It also doesn’t help that our outfits get increasingly inappropriate for the weather outside. We totally feel you. So, for those Uber rides to other campuses be sure to share a car amongst yourself and three friends and split the cost.

DON’T: Blow all your money on alcohol.

Need I say more? Just don’t do it. A Happy Sunshine BEC > a hangover (there was never any competition).

DO: Take advantage of student discounts.

Going to the movies? Flash your DragonCard. Going to the museum? Flash your DragonCard. Student discounts exist so that the poor college students of the world can take advantage of any and all of them.

Living on your own for the first time is liberating. Spending all your money because you no longer have your parents there to balance your checkbook is depressing. So, follow these tips and we guarantee you’ll find yourself with a few extra bucks in your wallet. Cha-ching!

Have tips for freshman looking to pinch their pennies? Share them with us!

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