1. Watch your wallet:
When confronted with all your purchases, it’s hard to defend them. Keeping a log of your spending serves as a necessary reality check at times. It also ensures you won’t forget about that 2 a.m. Domino’s order. Kudos for picking the cheaper choice, though.
2. Collect coupons:
Yes, coupons like the ones that your grandma scavenges for at the grocery store checkout. No, it isn’t old-fashioned. Check out Groupon for discounts on places you frequent: Grubhub, Walmart and Chipotle, for example. On top of that, places like Panera and Starbucks have a reward program that allows you to earn money back. MyPanera offers complimentary baked goods and a reduced delivery fee, and the Unlimited Sip Club promises more than 20 free drinks a month if you sign up before Halloween this year. Starbucks allows you to earn stars off every purchase you make. Drinks are worth 200 stars, and food is worth 100 stars. Don’t underestimate the value of stars! You can earn your money back. The Starbucks and Panera in the Plaza Shopping Center accept the rewards program using their mobile applications.
3. Maximize your meal plan:
Sometimes, you need to treat yourself, and more often than not, Bostwick can satisfy your cravings. The cafeteria workers are always happy to see you, which is something you can’t say about Domino’s. Bostwick also offers takeout containers that you can borrow at the check-in counter as long as you promise to return them on the conveyor belt when finished.
4. Make microwavable meals your friend:
Annie’s microwavable mac-n-cheese cups are quick and efficient meals that always work. Like Annie’s, buying microwavable meals in bulk provides you with 12 cheesy meals for less than half a dollar per cup. If you have yet to try them, that’s a bargain. Other options include the infamous Maruchan ramen, of which you can buy 24 packs for $7. Higher end microwavable meals tend to be pricier, so listen to my next tip if you’re interested.
5. Get a J-O-B:
The easiest way to budget is to get a job. A paycheck here and there can cover your Uber Eats orders, and Bucknell’s Workday and Handshake are great websites that make it easy to find an opportunity on campus. You could also visit the Center for Career Advancement in the Botany Building and schedule an appointment to meet counselors who will connect you with future employers. Another potential route is to attend career expositions like the STEM Research Expo and Careers in IP Law on Oct. 22 to make a great first impression.