It is so hard to believe that the second semester of my freshman year is almost over. There are only two months left until finals! I cannot believe I actually made it through. Well, to this point. The semester isn’t over yet! This year has been a unique experience that really makes me enjoy being in college.

However, while being in college can be enjoyable, it is also difficult. I don’t mean it in a way that is meant to scare anyone, rather prepare. It is really in your best interest to create a budget of some sorts. Calculate the cost of attendance and compare that to your financial aid, then think about the cost of books, and personal expenses (for when you want to go out, get some food, etc). If you have not yet decided on a college, create a budget for all of them! The worst thing you can do is sabotage yourself and create a whole set of unnecessary problems once you are in college by not planning ahead of time. College is hard enough without the sticky financial aspect, save yourselves some trouble. If you don’t know exactly how much money you will be able to utilize, that’s fine. Use rough estimates. Remember, it is better to overestimate than under!

Good luck! Until next time,

Andrea

‘If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail!’
-Benjamin Franklin