Tuesday, January 21, 2014

Cutting Costs On Illustrated Anatomy Textbooks And More

By Judy Sullivan


Getting into college is an exciting time in the life of any student. Following the anxiety of applications and campus visits, the thrill of receiving acceptance letters feels amazing. However, soon afterward comes the anxiety that results when you consider the expenses of living arrangements, illustrated anatomy textbooks, and other associated costs. College may be expensive, but there are many ways to save money. Students simply need to be resourceful and frugal. By speaking to fellow students and exploring all possible options, you may be able to save a good amount of money. Here are two primary areas where you may be able to cut costs.

Textbooks: As all students and former students know, this is one of the hugest expenses of attending college. Do not wait until the last minute, when you will have no choice but to purchase all of your books new from the school bookstore. Consider these possibilities:

1.Look for used books from online retailers. You can often find books for a fraction of the cost of purchasing them new. Just be sure to factor in the shipping costs.

2. Network with other students, especially those in your major. You might be able to buy or borrow their used books, in print or electronic form.

3. Explore rental and used book options at your school's bookstore. Many of the stores on campuses buy back students' old books and re-sell them. Also, many stores have a rental options, which is a great idea for a book that you know you won't be using after the class is finished.

Living arrangements: Housing is another huge cost for many students. You do not want to find yourself in the midst of finals, suddenly wondering how you are going to cover your rent for the month because it is beyond your means. Here are some ways you can save on housing:

1. Live in the dorms. If your parents are covering your college expenses, or if you have received enough financial aid to cover more than just tuition, this may be a very sensible option for you. University housing plans often include meal plans, which will help you save money on food.

2. Live with other people. Having roommates, especially ones who are strangers, can be aggravating. However, it may be worth the aggravation if it will cut your living expenses down to a half or a third of what they would be otherwise. Perhaps you can even find friends to live with.

3. Live at home. If you are going to school in your hometown, continuing to live with your parents might turn out to be the wisest choice. It might seem like a horrible thing now, but if it will help you to save money and get on your feet more quickly, it is worth considering.

Beginning a college degree presents the student with many decisions all at once. This can be overhwhelming, but planning in advance can help. Shelling out the cash for those campus activity fees and illustrated anatomy textbooks will hurt much less if you have a budget and a plan in mind.




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