As a returning student to Georgia State University this fall I have stated to become all too familiar with the increasing amount of ways that “college life” eats at your pockets. I love college, but gosh, it’s expensive beyond reason. Over the past few years, the State of Georgia has made budget cuts that show no mercy to the Georgia University system. Everyone has been suffering. My school, Georgia State, is a growing institution and we, the student body, are tying up a lot of loose ends for the University. Here are some things that students have experienced as losses:

• A 20% increase in tuition in 2012
• 16% less amount funded on our library card (PantherCard)
• Inflated vending machine prices (and smaller portions)
• Inflated food court prices
• Student fees, etc.

There are reasons behind every hand that is out to collect funds. As our University system grows and develops, students are forced to experience increases in the amount of out-of-pocket expenses we accrue. During your freshman year, the expenses may slip over your head without too much of a concern. It is all under the umbrella of “the college experience.” Once you have at least two semesters under your belt it seems to begin to add up. How do we placate some of the inevitable blows to our wallets…? Here are a few tips:

1. DON’T BLOW YOUR REFUND CHECK

a. Save at least 20% of your check
b. Prioritize your money BEFORE it arrives.

2. APPLY FOR MORE SCHOLARSHIPS & LESS LOANS

3. SHOP AROUND FOR PRICES ON BOOKS/MATERIALS

a. Chegg.com is awesome
b. Consider renting not buying
c. Ask people on Facebook/Twitter etc.
d. Many professors “suggest” the reading material *hint*

4. LEARN TO COOK

5. MAKE YOUR FEES WORTH PAYING

a. Go to the Dome for the free football games
b. Use the Rec center
c. Visit the Rialto Center For the Arts
d. Rent a camera from the Digital Aquarium

These are things we are paying for regardless of our level of involvement so make it useful. College is one of those rare “best things in life” that actually isn’t free.

Author: Sonni Deniece

Originally published August 26, 2012