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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Utica chapter.

Saving money is just as simple as spending money. If you want to save your money, do not spend money, only buy things that you need. Of course I am not suggesting that we do not treat ourselves on occasions. I find that the more I spend on things I do not need, the more that seems to be valid in my own head. Here are five ways to save money that I think can be very effective.

  1. Think over any purchases before following through. No, I am not saying that you should be holding a bag of almonds while huffing and puffing over whether you should buy it or not. Rather I  mean the bigger purchases. Do you really need it? Will you use it? This method could be used for some foods that are not good for you as well. If you cannot validate it, do not buy it.

  2. Do not bring your wallet to the places that you know you will spend money. This sounds a little extreme and it is. I can say that I have saved myself money just leaving my wallet behind when I go to the store just to give a friend some company. I will see something, proceed to look into buying it and then be glad I did not bring my wallet later.

  3. Limit using your credit or debit cards. This is a for sure way to accidentally spend more than you intend. Since you cannot see your money disappearing unless you check your bank app, you will end up spending more.

  4. Make use of generic brands. I hope it is not just me that notices how much people look down on generic brands. Almost all the time the generic brands of cold medicines, cereals, toothpastes and things like that are just as good but are dollars cheaper compared to the name brand. Make use of the generic brands and try them out. If they end up completely sucking, then at least you tried.

  5. Buy in bulk. For those who live on campus this may not apply, but if you are living off campus, buy in bulk. It is always cheaper and you will also find yourself going to the grocery store less often because you will have more of the product to use up.

There are countless ways in which we can all save money. The most important way to starting to save money is to recognize our bad spending habits and cut them off. It literally pays to be smart when spending money, whether you are trying to save up for a trip, a car, or pay off your college bills. Every little bit counts, so start saving with these tips!

 

Hello everybody, my name is Stephanie. I am currently a Sophomore at Utica college. I am a nursing major and I am on the track and field team. I spend almost all my free time either in the library or practicing for track. I really enjoy having the opportunity to share pieces of me with you guys through the means of writing. Enjoy!
Bianca Nitti

Utica '20

Meet Bianca, I am currently a Junior at Utica College in Utica, NY.  I am a Criminal Justice major with a concentration in Homeland Security.  Crime investigation has always been something that interests me.  I’m dedicated and passionate and it’s hard for me to quit things. I get that from my father so don’t hold it against me- he was a veteran and police officer for 20 years.   Growing up in a family centered around law enforcement has helped guide me in this direction, and I will forever be grateful.  After graduation I intend to continue on to law school where I can further my education in hopes of becoming a criminal defense lawyer and later on a District Attorney.  An interesting fact about myself is that I found the passion to be a criminal defense lawyer from watching the O.J. Simpson case.  The facts and conspiracy theories evoked a whole new passion behind criminal investigation that I intend to use in my future.  One of my most prominent moments in my writing career was when I wrote for an online magazine and had my most prevalent article hit 1.6k shares.  I believe in treating people with the same kind of respect and manners you would expect in return, and in a way it has helped shaped my expectations in life.   When you first meet me I won’t be the loudest in the room or the center of attention, but I will be intently listening to everything you say, for what you have to say may have a purpose. I believe in purpose. I believe that everyone is here to help you grow into who you are today and who you will be tomorrow.