Going away from home for college can be very overwhelming to many. While many see the opportunity as a celebration of freedom, it may not be too long before they realize that college life is not at all the bed of roses that they dream of. College life is full of challenges and one of them is dealing with your budget.
Whether your parents shoulder all your expenses or you work part time, you must know how to budget your resources. Undoubtedly, when you frequently run out of money before your parents can send you your allowance, it can take a toll on your performance in school. If you budget wisely which should give you financial health, it can mean that you can focus on your studies more.
Indeed, knowing how to budget while in college will prepare for a great future. Here are some tips that will surely help.
List Down All Your Expenses
A cup of coffee may not be expensive. Nonetheless, if you take four cups of coffee every day, it can be costly on your daily budget. The same is true with your favorite chips. To know where your money is going, list down all your expenses at the end of the day and know where the chunk of your daily budget is being spent. You can cut down on these expenses to begin with your saving and budgeting.
Categorize Expenses
Another way to be able to identify your expenses is to make categories. List down expenses according to your needs, like food, personal hygiene, school needs, entertainment, and others. By doing this, you will be not sacrificing one over the other. Of course, you all need all these things to help you keep your sanity amidst the challenges of college life.
Draw a Line Between Needs and Wants
Why do you actually go to Starbucks when you can prepare a great-tasting cup of coffee in your home? Of course, there is much difference. But if you can limit spending on not so necessary things, the better for your budget. For sure, your monthly allowance will not be consumed until your parents send you for the next month.
Enjoy Free Events
There are many entertainment options while in college. Instead of attending concerts by nationally acclaimed bands, patronize gigs which are offered for free. Usually, these gigs are staged by talented students like you. You can also join some extracurricular activities where you can spend your free time. These activities can be entertaining while developing your skills.