By: Sarah Siguenza
It’s the most wonderful time of the year: when family and friends gather for celebrations, the time for skiing and s’mores and the time when everyone’s wallets start to feel much lighter. If the dollars start disappearing faster than the snow on the sidewalk, it is definitely time to step back and examine where that money is going, and how to start saving.
For many college students, the money is going directly towards one thing: food. “I definitely spend my money on food, because I stay inside and eat a lot. I hibernate,” junior Daniel Berman said. Sophomore Garrett Zink agreed, saying, “I definitely spend a lot on going out to eat, especially at Starbucks.”
Starbucks: essential to every student’s diet, despite the pricey cost per cup. “As a student, my greatest expense is definitely Starbucks,” Sophomore Elizabeth Virga said. “I can’t live without it.”
Photo from shefit.com
Even for non-coffee addicts, the winter season still comes with a large price tag, especially after a shopping spree. “My money goes to clothes,” sophomore Kaitlyn Shermer said. “Shopping is a disease.” For many however, the bonding sessions with the mall are not an excuse for self-indulgence, but rather a necessary expense when it comes to buying gifts for family and friends. “Spending money is always painful, but when I am buying presents for others, I’ve found that it’s totally worth it,” senior Deanna Zaucha said.
Don’t forget the abundant outdoor activities that winter has to offer. For sophomore Brett Willie, hitting the slopes is what hits his wallet the hardest.
“The ticket price is crazy,” Willie said. “Then you add on the clothes, goggles, and skis or snowboard, and the cost is at least $300. That’s not even including the cost of food and gas for every time you go.”
Depressed by winter’s monetary burdens? Fear not- Careonecredit.com provides plenty of suggestions on how to save, such as avoiding impulse buys and giving atypical gifts not found in a store, such as homemade bakery items or the gift of time, like volunteering to babysit or shovel for free. Such gifts are bound to be appreciated, and cost nothing.
For those who feel the need for frosty air, Careonecredit.com suggests checking online for coupons before heading out, and for frequent slope-goers, recommends a season pass. “You can buy a season pass at many ski areas that significantly reduce the cost per visit if you use it regularly,” the website suggests. ‘Tis the season to be jolly, not broke. Just set a limit and follow some of the suggestions above, and enjoy a season of saving!
