College gets expensive. With tuition, rent, food and books to pay for, students often do not have much spending money.

While some students pick up part-time jobs or sell back old books, some choose to donate plasma and get paid for their time. To do this, people can go to BioLife Plasma Services in Ames. It’s located at 1618 Golden Aspen Drive.

Plasma is the yellow liquid part of blood and lacks any red blood cells. This part of the blood can help prevent infection and control bleeding, according to BioLife’s website.

However, not everyone can donate plasma to Biolife. Donors have to be between 18 and 69 years old, in good health and at least 110 pounds. Other more specific health requirements can be found at biolifeplasma.com.

If you choose to give plasma, BioLife recommends some tips to keep you healthy while you are participating. Donors should get plenty of iron and protein. They should also get plenty of sleep, drink plenty of water and avoid fatty foods and alcohol.

Before anyone can give plasma, he or she must go through a screening. This will happen before each donation. The screening will include a questionnaire about medical history.

People can choose to donate to BioLife up to twice a week. Donors can spend up to an hour and a half in the center on each visit.

Finally, people who give plasma to BioLife can be compensated for their time. Donors get paid in the form of a debt card.

For more information or to register to give plasma, go to biolifeplasma.com.