Page 236 - University of South Florida Student Planner 2022-2023

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COLLEEGGEESSUUCCECSESTSIPTSIPS Financial Planning
There is no way around it: college is expensive. If you are lucky, your parents might be helping out with your tuition. Most of us though, have to pay our own way with the help of financial aid, loans, scholarships, and work study. In order to keep yourself in good financial shape, practice the following:
1. Only buy what you can pay for. While this might seem like a no-brainer, in today’s world of high-tech gadgets, expensive designer clothing, and exotic spring break destinations, it is easy to get into the trap of purchasing on credit and paying later on. This is not a good idea for college students! Remember, if you do not pay off your credit card every month, you will accrue steep finance charges that will only make it harder to pay off next month. This vicious cycle can lead to financial ruin if you are not careful!
2. Recognize the difference between things you need and things you only think you need. At the beginning of each semester, make a list of the items that you will need to get through to the next semester. Remember: only the necessities!
List these necessities below:
Item: Approximate Cost: ______________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________
TOTAL:_______________________