Odds are if you're still in college that you have a part-time job or your parents are giving you money to get through college. Either way it's not enough and you really have to budget. You're still young so you don't know how to and wonder why you're broke after only two days. Here is how to make the most of your minimum wage...
Shop in Dunnes Stores
Dunnes is every college student's best friend, and for good reason, because things are great value, and good quality. There are home brands to make your head spin. There is no better feeling than when you get all your grocery shopping done for under €20. It means you can spend your money on the important things like college books and extra grinds... ;) Keep an eye out for Dunnes Stores reps on your campus where they'll be handing out €20 euro store vouchers as well as signing students up for their Valueclub card which will save you even more money...
Cook meals from scratch
The facts are that it's cheaper to make meals from scratch than buying processed food. It's a lot healthier which will pay off down the line. Microwaveable foods are always that bit dearer and you're never quite sure what you're going to get, grab some BBQ meats from your local Dunnes and pretend that it's still summer...
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Cycle into College
Someone days it is a lot easier to just hop on the bus, but if you don't have a car, cycling is probably the best option. It doesn't cost you anything only for repairs if a tire gets punctured. It's a great form of exercise and also you won't have to deal with those creeps on the bus.
Use those student discounts
Ah yes, the privileges of being a college student, those discounts are there to be used so you might as well take advantage of them. Whether it's for your lunch or new books they're there for a reason so you might as well milk them while you can.
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Attend campus events
If you're thinking of going out, but you don't have the money there are always free events you can go to on campus. It's a great chance to meet new people and take advantage of the free food and drink. It's always a better option then emptying your bank account and having nothing left for the rest of the week.
Indulge in the sales
Whether it's food, books or clothes, do anything and everything to grab yourself a bargain. It's the best way to make the most of your paycheck and it's better to buy in bulk so you won't need as much afterwards.
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Resist those impulse buys
We know you might buy something that you don't need every now and again, but if it's a regular occurrence then they add up. Then you wonder why you don't have as much money left in your bank account.
Make your own lunch
It might not seem like such a big deal, but you will save a lot of money if you bring in your own lunch. If you're really stuck there will always be some cheap deals you can get around campus, but you will be surprised at how much money you can save from making your own lunch.
