As I talked with more and more friends, I realized the majority of them did not have a savings account. We had all these dreams of traveling, getting married, getting a car, getting a home, and eventually having kids - but no money to do so. Although it may seem difficult, it's important to start saving now. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
Even after freshman year, college students should still apply for scholarships. There are many scholarships available to people already in college and this could cut the cost of your tuition and books. This would allow you to put more of your personal money toward saving.
Create a weekly and monthly budget for yourself. This budget should be specific and include your bills and money that has to go toward books, groceries, and an allowance for entertainment.
Looking at your bank account before shopping will prevent you from overdrafting your accounts and also remind yourself to budget.
Stop thinking of having a savings account as optional and start treating it like a bill. In your budget, include the amount you will take out of each paycheck to put into savings. Even if it’s $30, it will make a difference in the long run.
Only use your credit card on purchases for which you already have the money so you can pay off your card as soon as possible. Check out this recent blog post for college students on how to build credit.
You would be surprised to find out that a majority of the stores and restaurants you go to offer a student discount. It does not hurt to carry your student ID around with you and ask just in case.
Staying in is one of the easiest ways to save money. I know you may have FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) but think of all the amazing experiences you could have just by saving your money. Many college students spend way too much money on entertainment and eating out. Check out “International Travel Destinations for the Struggling College Student” for a better idea on how you could be spending your money.
It’s time to face the facts; you’re most likely not making 75k a year, you’re in college and you need to start living like it. I know way too many college students that spend way beyond their means. They justify spending $25 on one meal or $200 in one shopping trip because they “deserve” it. Although it’s fine to splurge every once in a while to get yourself a treat, you don’t deserve to splurge like that weekly until you’ve graduated and have your first real job.
Having a savings account is necessary. You never know when you may need a new car, when you may get a great opportunity to travel, or when you might meet a great person that you want to marry. We like to think we can plan our futures, but life happens when it wants to; the best way to be prepared is by saving now.