4 Financial Tips From A College Student

Podcast Transcription

Hey everyone! It’s Morgan, an intern here at PFCU and today I’m here to share a few financial tips that have helped me survive and thrive as a college student. I know managing money can feel a little overwhelming, especially when you’re balancing tuition, books, and all the other expenses that come with being a student. But trust me, with a few simple tips, you can get your finances on track and feel more confident about your money. So let’s dive in!

The first tip I have for you guys is Cut back on non-essential spending. We’ve all been there—buying coffee every day or grabbing snacks on the go. Trust me, I get it. But these small purchases really add up over time! I started brewing my own coffee at home and packing snacks instead of grabbing them on campus. It may not seem like a lot, but when you cut back in a few places, it can save you a ton in the long run.

Another tip I have for you is Buy used or rent textbooks. Textbooks are one of the biggest expenses for students, but there’s no need to break the bank. Look for used books on websites like Amazon or check out your campus bookstore for rentals. You can also look for digital versions, which are often cheaper. If you can, sell your textbooks after the semester to recoup some of the costs that’s another good idea.

Another tip I have is Take advantage of free campus resources. Did you know your student fees often cover things like free access to the gym, counseling services, and even career counseling? Make sure you’re utilizing everything your school offers so you’re not paying extra for things you could get for free. It’s all part of your tuition—might as well get the most out of it!

The final tip I have is Start building an emergency fund. I know it's tough when you’re trying to stretch your money, but having a small emergency fund can save you in a pinch. Even setting aside $20 to  $30 each month can add up quickly. If something unexpected happens like a car repair or a sudden medical expense which I promise will most likely happen at least once through your college experience you’ll have a cushion to fall back on without digging into your savings or going into debt.

College is expensive but following these four tips can help you save a lot more money than you realize and overall will help you stay out of debt!

Thank you for listening !