The New DSC Article...

I'm not particularly proud of this article, because it was chopped and changed by the editor so it would be "Associated Press style." I've come to realize that "AP Style" is incredibly boring to read. No wonder the newspaper industry is tanking.

I prefer my opinion columns far more than this droll little AP style reporting. But you be the judge. This will be in the first issue of the DSC Sun. Comments will be appreciated. Please know that my original draft was much more fun to read, and it told a story. The following is the edited version, and I find it horribly bland.

"Fiscal Survival as a College Student"

Money is a priority on everyone’s list, whether it is to save or to spend.

According to http://www.stateuniversity.com/blog/permalink/The-Spending-Habits-of-College-Students.html., the average college student spends about $13,000 per year, but makes only about $757 per month.

On the same site, it indicates that the debt incurred while attending school can add up very quickly. Today’s student should spend with discretion and budget wisely. Unfortunately, the number of college-goers who squander their earnings on luxuries is steadily rising.

This kind of lifestyle is a recipe for disaster said Financial Aid Director J.D. Robinson, especially if student loans are involved. Sometimes pride must be swallowed and a budget must be implemented. It can be easier that some people think.

Robertson had some advice for students who are using grants and loans to pay for their education.

“A student’s focus should be on getting through school with as little debt as possible, and that takes sacrifice,” Robertson said.

One of the best things a student can do is to make a monthly budget, Robertson said. A student should write down their total income each month, and then prioritize their monthly needs. Set aside the money needed for tuition, books, housing and food first. He said that little things like not upgrading a cell phone every six months and packing a lunch each day can easily save lots of money.

A student should never spend their loan or grant money on luxuries, said Robertson.
“Financial aid is not made to fund a lifestyle, but to fund your college education," he said. "It’s there to cover your tuition and fees, to cover your books, to help you with modest housing, and a little bit of transportation.”

A lot of students get themselves in trouble by spending their loans on things like car payments, clothes, fast food, insurance, and other items that aren’t related to their education, said Robertson.

Jamie Avery, a senior nursing major from Kaysville, finds that having fun doesn’t have to break the bank.

“I love hiking and fishing,” she said. “You pay $2.50 for a cup of worms, and have a fun day at the lake with your friends. You get to eat what you catch, so you don’t have to pay for dinner.”

Avery had some suggestions on bargains, as well. "There are lots of deals on things, you just have to be willing to find them," she said. "I bought a great microwave at the DI, but don’t tell anyone."

Selling down is a good way to get money, says Hayli Hunt, a senior communication major from New Harmony. “I had two cars and realized I didn’t need them, so I sold them both."
She said she is a champion of carpooling and walking, and that it’s not a big deal going to school on a small campus.

Saving money while going to college isn't hard to do. Here are some tips from http://www.collegescholarships.org/student-living/save-money.htm:

-Save your spare change and count it and roll it yourself. Coin counting machines usually rip you off.

-Sell your used textbooks online and make extra cash.

-Trying to eat on 12 cents? Two words: Ramen Noodles-Try www.download.com for free music, videos, games and utilities

-Forget about T.V. Watch shows through the Internet. Shows can usually be viewed through hulu.com.

-Check the newspapers for upcoming free events: concerts, fairs, theater, festivals, art galleries, etc. HOW ABOUT THE DIXIE SUN SPECIFICALLY?

-Ask for practical items for Christmas/birthdays. Getting things you need saves you from spending the cash.

-Don't shop hungry.

-Feeling the urge to splurge? Instead go for a run, a bike ride or a brisk walk. You'll get some exercise-induced serotonin and the feeling will cost you nothing.

-Donate plasma (try BioLife at 816 N. 2860 E. Street in St. George).

-Get a job in the food service industry. Chances are high that you can eat for free.