Litter Man l August 25, 2010 l Aaah, back to school. There’s nothing like a trendy new outfit, the latest smart phone, and a killer book bag to start off the semester. If you have to go back to the classroom, might as well go back in style, right?
Well, within reason. Decking out your college life can get expensive. And even if you have a full- or part-time job, it’s important to stretch your dollars in college so you don’t graduate with a load of debt!
Your digs: Before you decorate every inch of your boxy dorm room or sweet new apartment, read our tips for furnishing your first place on the cheap!
- Shop around for the lowest utility rates at lowermybills.com.
- Raid your family or friends’ basements and garages before you buy a new microwave or couch!
- And coordinate with roommates so you don’t buy two of everything.
Books and school supplies: New textbooks can cost hundreds! Before you hit the bookstore:
- Check with your professor to see whether the book is really required or just suggested reading.
- Look online for book deals at sites such as Amazon.com, eBay® and efollet®.com.
- Rent books from online sites such as Chegg®.com and BookRenter.comTM.
- Borrow from a friend who’s already taken the class.
Greek life: Rushing a sorority or fraternity can be a blast! But before joining, consider what you’ll be on the hook for financially. Potential costs include:
- Initiation fees
- Membership dues
- Living in the house
- Extras such as clothing with your Greek letters, social events, and donations to philanthropies
Transportation: Do you really need to bring your car to campus? Speaking from someone who’s gotten way too many tickets from the campus parking patrol plastered to her windshield, you’ll save more by leaving your wheels in your parents’ driveway.
- Most college towns offer cheap or free bus services for students.
- Campuses are often set up with everything close together so people can walk, skateboard, or ride their bikes.
- There’s always someone heading out on a grocery store or Target run, so just hitch a ride!
A furry friend: Before you rush to the pet store to pick up your new puppy, cat, gerbil, or snake, consider whether you have the time and money to raise it! This pet expenses worksheet really spells it out for you.
Channel your inner cheap! Ask about student discounts wherever you go! Whip out your student ID at bowling alleys, movie theaters, restaurants—even J. Crew, Sam’s Club, Club Monaco, and Top Shop.
