By: Jessica Hernandez Blanco
It’s tiring hearing about our student loans, class fees, personal bills, and acquired debt. Everything is about money, and as we all know, it does not grow on trees.
Let’s face it, the semester isn’t even over yet and a lot of us are already broke wondering how we can make the most of our money on campus. Luckily, this list is here to help you pinch those pennies!
And, if you’re broke to the point of no return, you can restart during the spring. I mean, don’t we all deserve second chances?
Pick a Dining Plan like King Solomon
If you usually skip breakfast, maybe 19 meals a week is too much for you. You may want to use your meal swipes at Roussell Dining Hall as opposed to your dining dollars or credit card. Sadly, we’ve all done it! But you can learn the lessons from the fall and think about your food needs in the spring. You’ll get a full meal at a smart price.
Commuters, it might actually be wise to get a meal plan at Barry. With plans starting as low as $184, it might be cheaper for you in the long run. You probably already spend a lot of money swiping your card anyway, so go with the cheaper option and get a meal plan. It’s worth it!
Your Receipts are a Pot of Gold
Craving something sweet? Take a closer look at your receipt before you throw it in the recycling bin. Subway gives you a free cookie on your next purchase when you fill out a short survey. Also, Dunkin’ Donuts give you a free classic donut the next time you buy a beverage there if you complete an online survey.
Memorize the Promotions and Discounts
Although Barry isn’t a discount mecca, there are probably some deals you weren't aware of! Roussell Dining Hall offers meals for five dollars on Fridays to faculty and staff. They also receive 20% meal discounts on select Wednesdays. That schedule is published on the Barry website.
And, if you think students weren’t getting enough love, there are other promos available for a limited time at Dunkin Donuts’ like their $2 medium cappuccinos, lattes, and americanos from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. every day. There are also $1.70 ice cream scoops every 31st of the month.
Join a Rewards Program and USE it!
You can get points from your purchases and transform them into free toppings, coffees, or collectible items. Join the rewards programs, to save money. Dunkin’ Donuts has a reward program called DD Perks where if you download the app you can start earning points. You might not get rich, but you won’t get broke either. And, it is a good way for companies to pay you for your loyalty.
Cash Back! Yup. You can get CashBack!
If you usually pay for things with your credit card, check your bank to see if you can get cashback from buying from different companies.