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When referring to a College education you often hear the term "higher learning." When it comes to college, the education isn't the only thing that's "higher" so is the price. Along with tuition you'll have Dorm fees, a meal plan, books, and many other expenses that may pop up unexpectedly. Now I bet your wondering, "Where will I find the  

Cash

  to party?"

Don't fret just yet! If you could muster up enough Money for that beat up Pontiac in the driveway, you'll have no trouble saving extra cash for some fun during the semester.

First, start planning now. Learn to manage your money before you head out for school. Patricia Q. Brennan of Rutgers University advises taking your paychecks from work and putting a little bit away each week. Even if it's just five dollars, it'll add up.

Don't have a part-time Job? What are you waiting for? Not only are jobs a source of money, they're also a great way to make new friends. Working just a couple of hours a week is a couple more bucks in the bank, and that much closer to Financial freedom.

Also, don't be afraid to cut some cash corners to better your financial situation. Murray Baker, author of The Debt-Free Graduate offers some penny pinching pointers:

1. Pack a lunch for work or school instead of buying one. Lunch money adds up when your dealing with a couple of dollars everyday over an entire year. Besides, isn't mom's homemade pb&j better anyway?

2. Cut out all of those unnecessary purchases you make throughout the day. Is that soft drink or candy bar really necessary? Try bringing a bottle of water with you and refilling it instead.

3. Hold on to that change! Put aside a special place for all of your extra change from the day. It may be just nickels and dimes now, but sooner or later it becomes five and ten dollar bills.

When you find yourself getting financially frustrated just remember that you're college bound now. That means having a tighter wallet today will pay off tomorrow. Any extra cash you can save will come in handy when you and your dorm friends decide to take a weekend road trip or just want to go out and see a movie. If you look at it this way, the more cash you can save, the more partying you can do. So let's get saving!


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Amanda Fornecker is a staff writer at The CollegeBound Network. Learn more about finding a school that's right for you.

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