If we’re being honest, I didn’t really want to talk about money because it can be an uncomfortable topic for some people and that’s ok. To be really honest I’m uncomfortable talking about it right now, but it can sometimes play a big part in college life.
My mom used to always say she ate ramen and Macdonald’s throughout college because it cost next to nothing. I always wondered, one, if that was true and two, do you really not have money in college?
She wasn’t lying, ramen is one of my favorite things to eat, but also sometimes the only thing to eat. I can’t complain though.
I wanted to briefly talk about finances mainly because of how it can play a big role in our social lives. At least it does for mine, and I can’t be the only one.
If not I guess you can just skip the rest of this. For those still with me, thanks for staying.
I’ve had many jobs throughout my college life, such as babysitting, waitressing, bartending, and I was even a social media manager for awhile. Having a job in college can be great. It can help students feel at ease financially, but can also add stress to our daily lives.
When I was working a lot, I felt like I had all the money in the world. I wish that was true, but I felt like it. I would spend money on things I didn’t need and just wanted, or would eat out more frequently. That’s awesome and all if you can afford it, but most of us can’t, and that’s totally ok.
Now that I am unemployed and living on my own still, I have to focus on things I really need vs things I want. I can’t go out and spend money on fast food, I should save it for groceries. If you haven’t realized it yet, grocery shopping is way cheaper than eating out. Major tip. If I’m going out with friends all weekend long, maybe I don’t spend on things I may want or I even say “how about I catch ya later” instead. Whatever works for you. I truly mean that though, not everyone will be able to spend money on everything they want, especially in college. In a way, being frugal can help prepare us for adult life. There are a lot more expenses that come with that, so I’ve heard.
Going back to having a job in college… it doesn’t have to be for everyone. I can admit that it does sometimes add major stress to my day. I feel like I don’t have time for anything. Which can be true, but also creating a schedule could help with that. For those that have a job during their college years, I applaud you and you are doing great things!
Bottom line is, money comes and goes. If you have it great, if you don’t now, you eventually will.
I will say though…. Fun can be FREE! I promise.