How to Save Money as a Student

1. Buy a Coffee Maker.
Coffee is the college student's lifeline. Caffeine is the only thing that makes this chaos doable. Instead of spending $4 + dollars a day at Starbucks, buy yourself a coffee maker and a thermos. It is a worth while investment. Plus, you customize your coffee so that it tastes exactly how you want it to! Want the caramel and hazelnut shots too? Buy creamer and syrup for the fridge.

2. Take Advantage of Free Samples.
The infamous phrase that nothing in life is free is terribly wrong. If you know where to look, you can find free things everywhere. Pay attention to the 'free coffee and breakfast' promotions offered in the commuter lounge for a special event. For girls, look at the vending machines in bathrooms closely. Many now give feminine products for free. Also, web-search 'free samples' and see what you find. Yes, it sounds a bit sketchy, but it does actually work. Many companies give free samples to promote their products (just make sure you don't have to sign up for anything first).

3. Recycle.
Recycle your bottles and cans. Yes, it is only five cents a bottle, every penny counts! If you are on a walk and you see an empty bottle around, why not pick it up, put in a plastic bag, and return it later? It's earth friendly, and you're making money! Another good tip is to 'recycle' your clothes. Girls especially- go through your closet every month or so. If there is something you don't want worth value, sell it to a thrift shop.

4. Say No to Costly Prints.
In college, a student writes many papers and views many power point slide shows. Try to resist printing everything out. Instead, ask your professor if he minds that you email him the paper instead.(Many don't mind at all). And simply look at 'powerpoints' before class rather than bringing them with you.

5. Rent Your Books.
Why spend $800 dollars a semester on books that you could care less about? Rent them instead, especially if it is a class that you won't be likely to refer back to later in your career. Example- If it is a history class your taking to fill a general education requirement, and your major is biology, then you probably won't need it again.
www.chegg.com is a good resource to check.

6. Buy Things You Need in Bulk.
There are things you will need to buy for college. Shampoo, tissues, soap... Instead of buying them as you need them, buy them ahead of time in bulk. It is much, much cheaper. Stores like 'Costco' or 'BJ's" are best for this, but sometimes even basic stores such as 'Walmart' or 'Target' sell package deals.

What other things can you do to save money? Any ideas? Talk with friends to share methods. Talk to family members. After all, can't everyone benefit from saving a penny or two?