How much spending money does a freshman need?

icesk8mom
Sat, 16 Jun 2007 22:48:47 +0000

SmithieandProud has given you very good advice that applies to Mount Holyoke as well. I would add that you will need money available to you in two ways: 1) Money deposited in a bank that will be available to you through a checking account or debit card. You will be able to make purchases over the internet or through stores using the debit card or get cash from a MAC machine, but you must have the cash in the bank account to cover the cash out or purchases (as opposed to a credit card, where you borrow the purchase money until you pay the bill). 2) Money deposited at Mount Holyoke that will be available on your “One Card”. That is the way you will pay for laundry ( which is at least the $2.70 per load as reported by SmithieandProud) and will be able to use it for certain on campus purchases (for example to buy text books, although you can purchase them with your debit card on line or through the book store.)

My daughter’s roommate, also an international student, used one of the computers in the dorm computer center for most of the year. She acquired a used computer late in the year. There are enough computers between the dorms and the library, so that you can survive without one.

I definitely agree with what the other posters have said about leaving campus or having visitors come every weekend…or even once a month. You will have many opportunities as well as academic challenges at Mount Holyoke. Make the most of the opportunities and rise to the challenges. Keep an open mind to the diverse group of colleagues you will meet. They will greatly enrich your life. Best of luck!