Balancing student life with your personal finances can be hard; however, with planning, you’ll be able to set yourself up for a healthy financial future.  Here are some tips for reaching your financial goals: 

1. Create a budget that includes a new line item: savings! Break down your budget either weekly or monthly and figure out what takes priority. Start with yourself! Setting aside even a few dollars into your savings account will help you reach your goals.
2. Cut down on unnecessary expenses. Balance your needs (those things you need to survive such as food, housing, and clothes) and wants (those things you desire for fun, entertainment, or comfort). Both are important but make sure your wants align with your goals.
3. Use the 30 Day Rule. If you want something but don’t need it to survive, take a step back for 30 days. This will give you time to think about whether you should purchase it, if it will truly add value to your life, and if it is worth the price. It will also give you time to search for a better deal.
4. Don’t compare your spending and finances with your friends or online influencers. The Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) is real! But you have your own goals and staying true to yourself will help get you there.
5. Finally, get help if you need it. Sticking with your budget and saving when you are a student is hard. The National Foundation for Credit Counseling has a nonprofit financial counseling network available to help you. 

Tips to Save Money While in College 

Here are some tips to help you learn how to save some money. 

• • Make a list before shopping and stick to it. Don’t shop hungry and use your coupons! 
  • Look for cheap (or FREE) entertainment. Consider potluck dinners with friends instead of going out to eat. Anyone up for a game night? 
  • When you do go out, plan! Know how much you want to spend and stick with it. Also, always ask if you can get a discount with your student ID. 
  • Review your billing statements to make sure you are not charged unnecessary fees. 
  • Check your subscriptions and get rid of the ones you don’t use. 
  • Search for cheaper rates for cell phone, internet, or cable providers or call to negotiate your rates. 
  • Consider taking extra classes each semester to graduate earlier. 
  • Rent your textbooks or buy them second-hand.