College Times

Media Credit: Ryan A Ruiz

The broke college kid; it’s a bit played out at times, but all too true. For many students it’s a challenge to keep up with school and a part-time job without compromising grades or standard of living. But people do it every day and they have for years. So what’s their secret?

For freshman Vivian Alvarado, it’s not easy but it is possible with a bit of careful planning.

Alvarado received a partial scholarship to attend Arizona State University as a political science major, but, like many students, she still finds it hard to make ends meet.

FOOD

“The hardest part for me is buying groceries or food,” Alvarado says. “It’s really expensive here.”

She purchased a school meal plan and says this makes it a bit easier; she basically survives on this alone for food, which cuts out regular grocery store bills, which can add up quickly.

“If you are going to get a meal plan, stay with it,” Alvarado says. “It’s already expensive enough; you don’t need to be going out to eat.”

For those students who don’t have a meal plan, it’s important to make the most out of your food shopping trip. Coupons and member savings are a great way to cut down the cost. Every penny counts in the long run.

Sometimes it’s really easy to over-shop, especially on a tight budget. First of all, remember to never go food shopping on an empty stomach. It only makes everything look appealing, regardless of the cost.

Secondly, go in with a game plan and a list – then stick to it. Remember that perishable foods like fruits and veggies go bad quickly, so only buy what you plan on using right away. You can always go back and get more later if you run out. Stock up on things like soups or boxed meals that will stay fresh until you make them.

RECREATION

Even though it’s difficult to go out on a budget, there are ways to make the most of your money – or better yet not spend any at all.

“Social gatherings are a good way to have fun and not spend too much,” Alvarado says. “I don’t go out every weekend because I don’t have the money, so I hang out with friends or rent a movie.”

Companies like Netflix are helpful for those on a budget since the plans are cheap and the movies are delivered directly to your door, which eliminates the added expense of gas.

If you really enjoy going out to the theater, compare local ticket prices to get the best deal. Alvarado has discovered that not all ticket prices are equal.

“The movie tickets are less expensive here (Tempe) than in Phoenix,” she says. Also, a bonus of theaters like Harkins is that they give a student discount when you show your student ID.

CLOTHING

With the weather beginning to cool down, internships in full swing and job interviews for many, it can often be hard to expand the wardrobe.

“Since I’ve been broke I’ve been thinking about shopping,” Alvarado says with a laugh. “Now, I’ve been looking at stores like Ross and thrift stores.”

Secondhand clothing is a great way to save money, and also still wear some high quality clothing. Buffalo Exchange has many locations throughout Phoenix and Tempe including one on University Drive. Here, you can sell and swap clothing making it cheap and fun to get new things.

Alvarado says it best: “I guess when you’re broke you become a smart shopper.” And really that’s what living on a college budget is all about.

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