How to Save Money at Alabama

mom2collegekids
Tue, 31 Dec 2013 12:28:30 +0000

One thing that I think bites some students in the tush is when they have friends who can spend a LOT more than they can.

My older son experienced this his frosh year. He and his best buddy both had the NMF scholarship (back then it included 4 years of housing). His friend also had PACT which provided about $8k per year for spending money. Plus friend’s parents gave a $400 a month allowance and paid for whatever the NMF didn’t cover . So, that student had well over $1000 a month just to blow on whatever!

within about a month, they and another pal tired of eating 3 meals a day on campus and soon began wandering around The Strip. Son quickly blew thru his own allowance (Neither of my sons worked as tutors their first semester). Son’s “emergency credit card” quickly started having balances that this mom wasn’t happy about. So, a little more guidance was needed…and a job! (to earn his own money AND to keep him busier so he wouldn’t have so much time to spend!)

So, be aware that you may end up with friends who have more money and don’t be tempted to try to “keep up”. And, once you feel settled and ready, get a part-time job so you will have some spending flexibility.

The tutoring center is a great place to work…no weekend work!