Saving money and sticking with budget can be tough, and being a student doesn’t make it any easier. Here are some tips on how to save money, and some local student discounts that are available with your Stan State student ID.
One of the first pieces of advice would be to always do your research when looking for the best deal. While out shopping you can always ask if the store price matches the item that you want so they would can give it to you for the lower price. For example, if you want a laptop from Target but Amazon has it for cheaper, just go to guest services and they will sell it to you for the lower price!
There are tons of online sites that offer student discounts. For example, UNiDAYS offers discounts from almost any brand you can think of as long as you sign up with your student email. They offer deals on fashion, health and fitness, beauty, lifestyle, tech, food, and much more. The Target app is also known for having deals almost everyday that are not advertised in store. Amazon is well known for giving students a 6 free months on amazon prime which gives you priority two day shipping. Many students also love listening to music in between classes so Apple Music is half the price for all students by signing up with your student email. You can also sell what you no longer use or need there are plenty of stores and web sites, like Poshmark and Craigslist, where you can sell your used clothing, furniture or tech items.
Located on the east side of campus, the Campus Recreation Department is free to students (except Extended Ed students) and offers many cardiovascular machines and weights. So instead of signing up for a gym membership, visit your on campus gym.
The Warrior Discounter also has many business that can give Stan State students discounts.
The ‘Weekend Warrior’ is also a way to go on fun trips out of town for a reasonable price. Transportation is provided to and from the event.
Your next meal doesn’t always have to come from the campus dining halls or take out restaurants. Many organizations and events across campus provide free food for attendees. Just check bulletin boards, the student newspaper or newsletter and social media accounts for notices of these events. You can also save money by visiting your local flea market! Every Tuesday there is a flea market on 2000 East Ave where there are plenty of vendors selling fresh fruit and vegetables as well as food and clothes stands. It is basically like a yard sale but with more variety and space!
A car can be great thing, but it can also be a real drain on your funds. Instead of driving all over town or campus, opt to walk or take campus transportation. Use your car only when it’s absolutely necessary. For more transit or route information visit www.turlocktransit.com
Damian Fernandez (Senior, Comm Major) said “I save money on gas by carpooling with friends and I also bring my own lunch and snacks so I am not splurging on food every time I am on campus. As little as it seems it actually does make a difference.”
Julia Serrano (Senior, Comm Major) mentioned that “I save money by splitting book expenses with a friend that I share the same class with due to textbooks being so expensive” Many other students have also mentioned that websites like Chegg and Slugbooks also offer cheaper prices on textbooks.
Lauren Rayley (Assistant Manager at Wingstop) said “tons of students come in everyday and show their student I.D. and they receive free fries with any wing purchase. They leave pretty happy knowing they got a deal and that is the best part”
Jocelyn Castellanos (ASI Admin Support Coordinator) mentioned that “My advice to keep yourself on a budget and enjoy your time with friends is to be aware of all of the different fun activities that are actually free for you at school! Movie nights, concerts, athletic games, etc. Also when going out to grab a bite to eat, be conscious of where you can get the biggest bang for your buck! Look for what places offer specials and even accept a student discount!”
Get creative and think outside the box when it comes to spending, and you can save big.