Dollars and Sense

Is money tight? Looking to buy a new laptop? Trying to pay back some student loans? Here are a few tips to keep you out of the red and feeling confident about your finances:

  • Track your money. Buy things with cash so that you can see how much money things are costing you.
  • You’re a student- take advantage of every student discount you can find!
  • Treat credit carefully! Set a realistic credit limit so you can’t get in over your head. Be wary of high interest rates.
  • Set a budget after determining how much money you’ll have each month and commit to it. This will help keep your purchases in line.
  • Put away some money for emergencies.  Add a just little bit each month to an account and you’ll hardly notice but it is money that is now tucked away in case you ever need it.
  • Be aware of due dates! If you’re strapped for cash, the last thing you want is to be paying extra for late fees.  Mark things in a calendar or set up automatic payments so that you never miss a date.

Staying Focussed for Exams

Exams are coming up before you know it! Here are some tips of how to avoid major time wasters to help keep you on track, instead of sidetracked.

  • The TV: Don’t just sit down and watch whatever’s on.  Instead, choose shows specifically so you can schedule them around your work.  If you really need to surf, give yourself a time limit!
  • Video Games: Some people can play video games for hours and hours every day.  Try using it as a reward for getting work done instead: “When I finish my readings I can play COD.”
  • The Internet: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, email, news sites… All of these are constantly updating, meaning you have an endless supply of new distractions. Limit yourself to certain sites as well as how long you’ll use them each day.  Some people even deactivate certain accounts during exam time to help them focus!