10 Tips for Financial Stability
1) Having a Financial Plan
We usually think of money as being something to spend. However, we should instead set financial goals, and act to make them happen.
2) Being Organized
Throwing all those statements and financial paperwork into one pile on your desk won't serve you well when it comes time to pay bills.
Those mysterious filing cabinets that your parents have may actually serve a purpose (in this case). Creating a filing system to keep track of all your financial paperwork and documents will help you save time when you most need them. You could label them by bill payments, college, insurance, checking account, etc.
Those mysterious filing cabinets that your parents have may actually serve a purpose (in this case). Creating a filing system to keep track of all your financial paperwork and documents will help you save time when you most need them. You could label them by bill payments, college, insurance, checking account, etc.
3) Search for Financial Aid
You can earn free money throughout your time in college, through scholarships, grants, etc. Make sure to remember and remind yourself about deadlines, reapply for aid if available, and feel free to talk to your financial aid office. The Internet also has many resources to help you find appropriate financial aid opportunities.
4) Loans are a Last Resort
Student loans often put people in debt, as they include high rates of interest. This means that they may have to spend 10-20 years paying off after they graduate.
To graduate with as little debt as possible, find as many scholarship and grant opportunities as possible, before deciding to take out a loan. Also consider working during the summer to pay off college expenses.
To graduate with as little debt as possible, find as many scholarship and grant opportunities as possible, before deciding to take out a loan. Also consider working during the summer to pay off college expenses.
5) School Comes First
Since a college education is meant to give you the biggest payoff the road, you shouldn't let much interfere with it. It also takes some time to get used to the rigorous academics and workload. Managing your time well, talking to professors, and participating in discussions are good ways to help you succeed academically.
6) Research a Career
You can take important steps to prepare for your first job. Attend career fairs, talk to your school's Career center, and research the details of professions you are interested in. Ultimately, the job should pay well, but also make you happy.
7) Choose a Meal Plan That Suits YOU
Don't stick with a limited meal plan if you're always hungry and buy expensive snacks later. On the other hand, don't stick with an unlimited meal plan if you would be satisfied with less food. With both plans, however, use them as much as you can without having to go out and buy more food.
8) College Computers
Yet another way of saving on personal expenses. Using a dorm/campus laptop/computer saves you at least $500 that you could use towards another item.
9) Dorm or Apartment?
Although people assume living off-campus will save them money, they should estimate the living costs first, and then make a decision.
10) Pay on Time
Late fess can quickly add up, ruin your credit, or even put you in debt. Remember and remind yourself of deadlines. If you're short on money, find odd jobs around campus, or ask your landlord if you could do some chores to get money.