The cheerleader, the jock, the gothic kid.
I'd like to believe we've left these stereotypes back in high school.
However, a stereotype most of us can't avoid fulfilling at Auburn University is the broke college student.
That's because most of us are broke, but that is all right. However, not knowing how to budget the little money you have, or spending it unwisely, is not all right.
If you haven't learned money management yet, now is the time. Effectively managing your money will help you for the rest of your life, not just in college.
Take some time and plan out your budget. If you have never made a budget before, you need to start by knowing how much money you'll have coming in every month and how much you think you'll be spending.
The biggest expenses will be the money you spend on tuition, if someone is not paying it for you already.
The rest of your money has to go toward the basics: food, housing, transportation, books, etc.
Start your budget by looking at the most expensive. It is usually tuition and books.
Take advantage of discounts and incentive programs provided by the University. Make sure you know the terms and conditions of any loans you take out, and research scholarships and grants before you accept them.
The college bookstore isn't your only option for purchasing textbooks.
Make sure you compare prices online to find the best deal. If you do decide to buy your books from the bookstore, it may be cheaper if you buy them used, rent, get the digital copies or sell them back at the end of the semester.
Many college students pack on some weight during their first year at school.
Our appetites can be expensive.
To save on food costs, eat at home as much as possible. Do not shop for groceries when you're hungry. Shop for food with a list and stick to it. It also helps save money in the long run to buy in bulk.
Resist your daily caffeine fix at Starbucks.
If you absolutely have to have coffee, buy a coffee maker and make your own at home, or substitute the expensive latte with a regular coffee.
Gas prices and parking passes are expensive.
Carpool with friends when possible and walk or ride your bike to class to save your gas money to do other things.
The Tiger Transit provides students with transportation to get to campus. Your tuition payments include fees associated with it.
For all who like to shop until you drop, try purchasing your clothes at Plato's Closet or another second-hand store instead of the mall and save tons.
Many college students like to go out drinking and have a good time. Do it for less by looking for the happy hour specials at the bars and restaurants before going out. When you decide where you are going out, only take the amount you're happy to spend that night, and no plastic cards.
Spending time with your significant other does not always have to tear into your wallet.
Dates with your crush don't always have to be an expensive dinner at Hamilton's.
Do something fun like a hike or picnic at Chewacla State Park, or watch a scary movie at your house every once in a while.
These tips may not seem like you are saving much short term, but if you start looking at your budget often, you will be able to tell the difference in your spending and have more money to do the things you enjoy.
Derek Thompson is a sports writer at The Auburn Plainsman. He can be contacted via email at sports @theplainsman.com.
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