Spending money
When you're in school a lot of your attention will be focused on studying and making sure you can cover the basics. That doesn't mean that the fun side of student life isn't important too! You don't have to let a student-sized budget prevent you from enjoying the extras, whether that's tickets to the game, music, a hot sweater (literally) or the latest blockbuster video game.
With a little resourcefulness and ingenuity, your student years can be rewarding, both inside the classroom and out. Ultimately, it's up to you to create the lifestyle that you want while you're in school.
You may find that using some smart shopping strategies goes a long way in helping you get what you truly want. So does doing a little extra legwork to find the great deals out there.
As a savvy consumer, you may find you can live well on a lot less than you thought!
Tips
Rep theatres, student venues, discount nights, coupons, film festivals, rental nights and DVD swaps... there are plenty of ways to catch the latest flicks and old classics without breaking the bank. And don't forget to check out the Toronto International Film Festival Film Circuit program, sponsored by RBC Royal Bank, which brings top independent films to more than 160 communities across Canada. Watch for TIFF Film Circuit student specials from RBC.
Why pay extra for fast food and snacks off campus if you don't have to? Make sure you know what's included in your meal plan and when meals are served. Take advantage of all the extras you can, like ordering food "to go" when you need to hit the books.
If you drive to school, take advantage of discounted student lots or find the cheapest parking spot you can. Even if you have to walk a few blocks, it's worth it — saving just $5 a day on parking could put $300 in your pocket each semester.
Enter contests. Nothing beats getting stuff for free, especially when you could win one-of-a-kind prizes. Start with the RBC 2010 Olympic Torchbearer Contest. You could be an Olympic Torchbearer.
Beware of false economies — they could end up costing you more. Case in point: you skimp on groceries... then eat out every night. Or skip the transit pass... then pump even more cash into ticket after ticket or expensive cab rides.
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