Keeping track of finances

Saige Heyer

Now that you’re in college, you’ll have to keep a closer eye on your finances since they’re probably not going to have all that steady of an income or you’ll be living off of your student loans. To do this, you’ll need to create a budget or pick up a part-time job.

Creating a budget is fairly simple. CNN Money gives three steps for creating a budget:

1. Identify how you’re spending money now.

2. Evaluate your current spending and set goals to take into account your longterm financial goals.

3. Track your spending to make sure it stays within those guidelines.

Although creating the budget may be simple, following it definitely is not. Make sure to double check your budget and make adjustments as needed if you’re spending more than you budgeted. Take a look at what you’ve been spending your money on and try to figure out where you can cut corners. Following a budget is much easier if you keep track of every penny you spend.

If you have cut corners and you’re still having difficulties sticking to your budget, check out Student Job Boards on AccessPlus to find a part-time or temporary job. Many of the jobs listed are on or near campus, which would make it easier to fit into your schedule. You can search these jobs by category or location.