Sure, everyone has heard about the “Freshman 15,” where first year college students fear that they will gain a few pounds. What many students don’t realize is that the average dining hall cuisine is not nearly as appetizing as your mother’s home cooked meals and it is not hard to lose your appetite within the first few weeks of school. Although the thought of gaining weight is frightening, this is not the kind of “Freshman 15” that I am talking about. I’m taking about the 15 ways students can save money in college. We all know college students are low on money, so why not save a few extra bucks where you can?
1. Create your own dorm room decorations
There is no better feeling than having a cute, cozy room to relax in the night before a big exam (as long as you’re not cramming in the library). Look for ideas on Pinterest and browse the Internet for cheap DIY (do it yourself) projects. Not only will this save you money, but it will also add some personality to your room.
2. Ditch Dunkin Donuts
Instead of spending cash at Dunkin Donuts for your daily morning coffee head over to the dining hall! Discover your perfect coffee combination to make yourself in the cafeteria and you’ll be saving around $3.00 every day.
3. Do NOT go shopping
I know this sounds crazy, but believe me, it’s a lot easier than you would think. If you live on a floor with 30 other girls that’s over 30 different closets to choose from. Don’t be afraid to share your clothes or ask your friends to borrow their outfits!
4. Save on textbooks
Look into websites like Amazon to find the textbooks you need at a cheaper price. Some professors do not actually require their textbook, so be sure to ask before you buy!
5. Make your own costumes for parties
At college you’re bound to attend your fair share of themed parties. Instead of going to the nearest Wal-Mart or CVS to purchase appropriate clothing, use clothes and materials that you already have. If you’re only wearing the costume once, why spend the extra money?
6. Stock your room with food
There is nothing better than late night snacks after a long night of studying or a late night out with your friends. Instead of spending extra money on munchies, keep extra food in your room. Plus, the food in your room is likely to be a lot healthier than the local pizza place.
7. Keep a reusable water bottle
Instead of purchasing water bottles everyday from the Student Union invest in a water bottle that you can reuse. You’ll save a few bucks on water while saving the environment.
8. Look for coupons
Treat yourself every once in a while and go to a local restaurant. Off-campus (and on-campus) restaurants can get expensive. Be sure to look for coupons and other discounts. There are more coupons out there for local places than you think; you just have to look for them!
9. Participate in activities on campus
The majority of clubs and organizations on campus host BBQ’s or even free movies. Rather than paying for a movie to watch on a lazy Friday or Saturday night, check out the free activities hosted by organizations on campus.
10. Sell your sporting tickets
Did you buy basketball and football season tickets and only go to a handful of games? Be sure to sell the tickets you aren’t planning on using. If you sell each ticket for five dollars a piece you’ll gather more pocket change than you had ever expected.
11. Don’t buy your music
Did you want to show your friend the newest song by your favorite artist? Don’t spend another penny on iTunes! Check out YouTube and listen to songs for free. Listen to Pandora and create your favorite playlists- all for free!
12. Stay healthy
If you stay healthy, you won’t have to worry about spending extra money on medications, cough drops or comfort food. Be active, drink lots of water and listen to your body. There’s no better feeling than being a healthy college student.
13. Use public transportation
Even if you’re an upperclassman, there’s no reason to use your car on campus. Public transportation is the key to getting around a large campus like UConn. Why waste your gas money and pay for parking when you can use the on-campus bus system?
14. Use your car
Yes, I know, this completely contradicts what I just said. If you do choose to use your car, use it for the right reasons. Use your car to make money, not throw it away. You know those weekends where you don’t want to go to a wild party or just watch tv and listen to music? This is the perfect opportunity to make a few extra bucks. If you have your car on campus, don’t be afraid to be a designated driver. Ask for $2.00 per person and you’ll make enough money to pay for the gas you used, plus the cute shirt you’ve always wanted!
15. Look for scholarships
If you don’t apply for scholarships, you won’t get them! Search for opportunities online or go to your advisor and ask. There’s nothing better than cutting down on your tuition.
Trying all 15 of these money-saving solutions at once may be a bit overwhelming and unrealistic. Focus on a few tips every week and before you know it you’ll be saving (and making) more than you ever would have imagined!