College Student’s Summer Saving Tips
Summer time for college students…maybe you find yourself back home or maybe you are stuck on campus or needing to support yourself at an off-campus property away from home. Summer can be the best time to accumulate money that you will need for the 8-9 months you are in school. Here are a few ways to minimize your expenses and maximize your savings potential during your 4 month break!
Donating Plasma
There are many facilities across the county that will pay for your plasma. This is different than donating blood (also a worthwhile cause!), and takes longer, but provides a lifesaving tools for doctors and hospitals everywhere who are treating patients. You will need to look in your area for facilities and the individual payments. However, it is common for places to pay up to $250 per month for multiple plasma donations. Do this for all 4 months you are off and you will have a quick $1000 to start the school year with. Other than the “prick” this is painless, and you can listen to music or read a great book while it is being done.
Student Discounts
They are all over the place and are easily found if you do a little research in your area. Clothing retailers, automotive brands/companies, movie theatres and technology companies are all examples of places that offer student discount s – sometimes steep values offering deep discounts. Do not be afraid to ask and do not be lazy about doing a little online investigating – it could result in hundreds saved with a flash of your school ID.
Temporary Jobs
This does include working for a temporary service, as well as part-time and seasonal jobs. However, many of the positions that are overlooked are for mystery shoppers or filling out online surveys. These aren’t things that are going to accumulate thousands of dollars, but they can take the edge off of every day expenses like going out to eat, changing your oil or perusing an entertainment venue. Why isn’t everyone doing these? Because they take a lot of time…time you have if you are home for the summer without a job to keep you busy!
Volunteering or Interning
In our minds volunteering does not equal money, however, it can have perks. Depending on your college goals and what your major is there are many avenues you could take toward increasing your resume or getting an advantage in your field. Many companies that offer volunteer or unpaid interning positions will reward great work with complimentary meals or entertainment. It also gives you the opportunity to network and reach out to people who have been in your shoes, trying to earn the same degree. These relationships can sometimes grow into partnerships or recommendations that shape your future. Sometimes it is not about the immediate payout, but about the investment.
All in all – don’t waste your time. Summer is a fabulous time to relax and it is easy to let proactivity slip to the wind…
Okay, now snap back to reality! Use your time to accomplish your dreams. There is plenty enough hours in the day to enjoy a change of pace but also be prepared for your future!
