Here’s how to savor your savings
By: Yusuf Sarujamohaden
Staff Writer
Time and money are widely considered the two most valuable commodities on the market today, especially when attending college. Knowing tricks to save money in the most expensive time of your life can make the financial burden of college a little less stressful.
So how do we avoid ending up broke by the end of the semester?
Reusable water bottles- We both know that we’ll get thirsty throughout the day, why not be prepared? Use that water bottle that’s been laying around your room or car. Conveniently there are automated water-bottle fillers sprinkled around campus.
Cheap movie tickets- Who doesn’t enjoy discounted prices on entertainment? I know I do, and it just so happens that Hudson Valley sells movie tickets at an incredibly low price! The student activities office can be found upstairs in the Siek Campus Center, Suite 210. The ticket booth is open Monday through Friday 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Don’t forget to bring your college ID and cash.
Cheap and affordable trips- Hudson Valley offers a wide variety of day-trip destinations to places like New York City, Boston and Salem. Ticket prices are just $25 for students and $35 for guests. The Student Senate sponsors these wonderful ticket sales.
Student ID discounts- There’s ample amounts of eateries, coffee shops and other local businesses willing to dish out savings of five to ten percent. Whenever I’m unsure of whether or not my college ID has a discount available, I just ask.
Free tutoring- Personally, I’ve benefited from the numerous free tutoring programs HVCC has in place. If you’re looking for some extra help instead of paying for a tutor, just drop by the Writing Center and Math Centers located in the Marvin Library any time. If you are struggling in a science course, try looking in the tutoring in the Science Center for help.
Bringing lunch from home/Being a smart foodie- Hungry, but in a rush? You shouldn’t feel like the Hudson Valley cafeteria is the only choice you have! Look right across the street, you’ll find options like Chinese take out, Subway, Wendy’s and even Market 32 by Price Chopper. Is the short walk across the street worth it? I sure think so! Also keep and eye out for free pizza every Wednesday that the The Student Senate sponsors.
College textbooks- Textbooks are often very expensive, so shopping around, and comparing prices can be an absolute game changer! When it comes down to the bottom line, renting or buying college textbooks from websites like Chegg or Amazon is almost like a breath of fresh air. If you did buy a textbook, toward the beginning and end of each semester, the HVCC bookstore has their very own book buyback program. Feel free to sell any used textbooks you may no longer need or want for some cold hard cash!