It comes as rather a large shock to many a student that during the Winter season, it is, in fact, rather cold. The domestic bubbles from which a large group of University students derive have led to a large-scale false impression of the British climate. Consequently, thousands of poor student souls are left floundering and freezing in the University winter months, with the heating often on for a mere three hours a day and the outside weather providing a serious incentive for staying in bed, all day every day. The major cause of this colder-climate in student hovels comes down to one thing and one thing only, (it's not the fault of poor double-glazing), and that is finances.
I have some gems of advice which can help the humble student to save their pennies and accumulate ca$h in their accounts:
1. It's a jungle out there...
To Amazon or not to Amazon? - The average student needs their fair share of course books, pens and assorted stationery. Beyond these scholarly necessities, not many students can refuse a bargain, and Amazon delivers them in spades. For all your University needs at half the retail price, put on your explorer jacket and delve into the cheap and cheery online jungle which is Amazon. You're wallet will thank you later...
2. Supermarket Slashes
Students, much like most human beings, enjoy good grub. The trick for the impoverished students is where to get this food, and more importantly, when. If you are a little bit wily and plan ahead, then you can find out when your local supermarkets begin labelling their products with nutritious-looking discounts. If you're willing to wait around until near closing time then you'll be champion of the cheap chow. WARNING: Be prepared to scramble for the reduced bacon rashers with a variety of weird and wily budget buyers and an assortment of cunning customers.
3. Discount Benefits
This piece of advice relates to confidence levels. I have stood behind students in many a shop queue and winced as I watched them forget or simply refuse to ask for a student discount. As a student there is no point feeling embarrassed when there's a 15 to 20% saving on the line. You may look like a cheap bugger when asking for a discount in posh boutique, which obviously doesn't offer student discounts, but there is absolutely no harm in trying. Also make sure to look out for the free burger you get with a McDonald's meal and a valid student card! The best things in life are, as they say, free.
4. DIY
I'm fairly vain. Students also tend to be fairly vain. While this vanity can be expensive (no pain no gain) I have a top tip to keep you in the tenners. Rather than hurling your hard-earned cash at a hairdresser, why not try A) Buying your own set of clippers and try a DIY cut, or maybe just ask a friend. A number four all over is quick, slick and cheap as chips. B) Give up on haircuts altogether. Embrace your hippy side, be liberal with your locks and by God, let it grow. Some girls love the male Rapunzel look - and guess what? Growing your hair costs a big fat nothing!
5. Cosy Clothing
Finally, (and this one relates to my initial point), in the Winter months, rather than forking out on horrific heating bills, why not make the most of your wardrobe? Instead of cranking up the radiator, put on a plethora of padded clothing and keep yourself warm the organic way. On a tangent, another great way to save some moolah is to get all your clothing goodies from charity shops or thrift stores. They have a trendy, vintage appeal, don't cost an arm and a leg, AND, as an added bonus, the clothes will already be worn in!
Good luck and God speed to all you student savers.
