College students make efforts to save money budgeting

The changing economy has many college students stretching the dollar. (graphic designed by Rakiyah Lenon)

By Aaron Smith | Contributor

Can college students at Augusta University save enough money—or earn a decent wage—to live a comfortable life? As months and years go by, this question becomes more and more important for Augusta University students.

Recently, the cost of items such as meat, gasoline, and automobiles have increased in price since this time a year ago. Therefore, it is beneficial to look at different ways that budgeting can be effective for college students in the current climate.

Kristina Holmes, a senior, said the increase in price for a number of goods has sparked a need for more sources of income.

“Not only do I work at Publix, but I also do DoorDash and Shipt on the side to make a decent amount of money. I need to have several jobs to keep myself afloat,” she said.

The difference in income levels in many Augusta University students has a direct relation to their normal budget.

According to Holmes, there is no clear budget in place for her spending habits.

“I live paycheck to paycheck to pay my bills, so there is no clear budget that I follow. However, I would advise students to not spend so much money eating out at restaurants,” she said.

For Lilly Rester, a senior, receiving income is a little more straightforward.

“The majority of my income comes from student loan refunds at the end of January. My boyfriend helps me with the rest of my expenses,” she said.

With varied income, it can be difficult for many students to dictate what to spend their money on.

For Rester, the plan for spending money is simple. “I’ll spend all day drinking coffee at Rooted Coffeehouse, but other than that, I really only plan to spend my money on car insurance and food,” she said.

Many college students work part time schedules to accommodate their course schedules. Thus, it can be a little difficult to save money with bill payments and the cost of expenses.

According to Rester, there are several effective ways to save money.

“Although it helps to not have a coffee addiction, it also helps to live at home until you are financially stable on your own,” she said.

Because of the rising prices of goods, it can be difficult for Augusta University students to save money. Therefore, it is important for students to not only develop a clear budget, but also save money.

For Rester, there is one thing that college students should avoid at all costs if they can. “For the love of God, please do not rack up credit card debt,” she said.

Contact Aaron Smith at madsmith@augusta.edu.

This story is published in the Wednesday, Feb. 9, 2022 print edition of The Bell Ringer.