In a society where things are becoming more expensive by the minute, it can feel like our pockets are running dry. As a college student who works part time at a fast-food chain, the money I make is not always enough to cover all of my expenses. 

Sometimes I help pay bills, and when I go out with friends, I end up buying unnecessary items. It can feel like I spend my entire paycheck in just one week, even though I’d like to think I’ve become more responsible with my money. 

That’s why it’s important to be smart with your money, create a savings account and set aside a certain amount every time you get paid. Over time, it adds up and gives you something to fall back on if you ever need it. I think having a savings account is a must for every college student, so if you don’t already have one, I would start now. 

I’m a severe shopping addict. Despite how many times I tell my friends, “I’m going to save,” I still end up spending money on a new shirt or a figurine that I don’t even need. 

One way I’ve been able to save money or make it stretch further is by creating two separate lists: one for items I need and another for items I want. 

There’s a clear difference between wants and needs. For example, if I run out of makeup wipes, that’s something I can justify purchasing because it’s an item I use often. However, if I want a new pair of socks while I already have plenty at home, then I know I don’t really need to spend money on them any time soon because it’s not necessary. 

At the end of the month, I look back at my “wants” list and choose one item I avoided buying. Then I decide whether I truly still want it or not. Time really helps when making those spur of the moment decisions.

 One example was a gray striped blouse I wanted that cost a whopping $63. After thinking about it for a couple of days, I realized the shirt wasn’t worth the price. After looking at what the shirt is made out of, the materials consisted of a polyester and cotton blend which made me rethink whether it was actually worth buying. Clothes made out of plastic are harmful to the body so I didn’t want to spend nearly $70 dollars for a shirt that is bad quality 

By then, I no longer wanted the shirt and basically saved myself $63. 

There are multiple ways to save money. My next suggestion is to avoid stepping foot outside because every time I go out, I swear I spend $100, and that is NOT okay. 

In all seriousness, while saving money can be sort of hard, with the right amount of self-discipline it is definitely possible.