By Jacob Bean
Staff writer
The cost of college is high and increases every year. According to the U.S. Department of
Education, statistics for 2011 showed that the average cost of tuition at a private university
(2009-10) in the U.S. was $32,790. Contrast that with the average cost a decade before (2000-01)
at $21,856 – roughly a 25% increase after inflation adjustment.
The estimated student budget, provided by the business office, predicted student cost of living as
$31,900 for this year. That breaks down into tuition ($18,400), fees ($430), books ($1200), room
($4800), board ($4200), clothing ($540), transportation ($1160), medical ($270) and personal
($900).
Not much can be done about lowering the cost of tuition, room, board or fees, but the other costs
can definitely be lowered by a few techniques such as budgeting and shopping wisely.
Students spend a good amount of money on entertainment such as movies, concerts and sporting
events. Check around campus for those types of events that are happening. Most of those events
are free to students.
Take advantage of being a student by using your Student ID at participating businesses and
venues, such as movie theaters, restaurants, sport and concert venues – some clothing stores
even give discounts. Always ask because the worst that can happen is the venue says no. Cards
outlining college discounts in Rome are available in the Student Government Office.
Another great way to stretch college money is by spending wisely and buying used or
discounted. Start shopping for clothes and other needed goods at second-hand stores or discount
stores.
Furnishing dorms and apartments is needed to make them a home. Take advantage of second-
hand stores for furniture and other necessities. Yard sales are also a great place to search for used
items.
Buying used books online or from friends can really help students save money. Splitting books
with other students and sharing costs is also a great way to save money.
Food can be a huge cost for students. Instead of spending five dollars on coffee every morning,
invest in a coffee pot and make coffee at home. If eating off campus is preferred, look for
restaurants that have daily or weekly specials or ones that offer student discounts. Some ways to
stretch money when eating out is to order specials, skip appetizers and desserts and order water
instead of soda – it’s free and healthier. Packing lunches at home and eating cheap can cut down
on food budgets.
Gas prices are on the rise as well. Carpooling with friends, walking, biking, or taking public
transportation can also really cut down on travel expenses.
Saving money in college is possible by spending wisely, looking for deals and realizing that a
life of luxury is not needed.
