Go Forth and Save!

10 November 2011Annie L

In a community that keeps you on your toes, it’s nice to enjoy the small, calming pleasures that can be found when — in a mere fraction of an hour — we find ourselves with a little spare time at our grateful fingertips.

That being said, some may think that Mill Bay has very little to offer in terms of activities. If you are in this position, I suggest you refer to Emily R’s recent blog about the local activities that are available to students. Despite all of these places we can go, many of us find their wallets practically quivering with the simple notion of losing weight. So if you’re looking for some advice from a fellow student in regards to saving those pennies, look no further!

Firstly, snacks. We all love them, and we all buy them. From Rusticana’s warm nooks to Thrifty Food’s diverse merchandise. The temptations are everywhere and we especially — as energy-driven students — are drawn to them like moths to a flame.

Pause for a moment. What about the cafeteria, where our staff work tirelessly on providing us meals, 1150 a day to be exact, in order for us to function at our best? Take advantage of what you have. Instead of going uptown and spending money, put an effort into eating regularly at the cafeteria, where your food has been prepaid by the Bank of Mom and Dad. We are lucky to be in such fortunate circumstances, among people who are more than willing to provide their best for us in order for everyone to perform at their highest potential.

During cookie break, grab a piece of fruit as a supplementary snack for your day. While you’re at it, grab two or three. Bring a water bottle and refill it during the day as opposed to buying bottled water and/or juice. Be the kid who takes the left over boxes of granola bars and other items from the lunch box that the cafeteria prepares for teams that go on sport trips. Save money and save the trip uptown.

As opposed to renting a movie, see what is playing on TV and what’s free on Shaw Video on Demand. Ladies and gentleman, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1 is currently free to view!

In relation to earning money at Brentwood, which may seem impossible, open your eyes to your creative side. Figure out what best interests you, whether it be making something from scratch (such as perogies) or selling pre-made items or food. Simply make sure you have your business plan laid out in order to confirm that you will make profit through every transaction and voilà, you’re an entrepreneur.

If you find yourself low on cash, keep track of how much you spend per week so you may track your money. In order to make change and keep change you must change your spending habits. There are several ways to have fun (and eat) at no extra costs, so get out there and discover them yourself! A dollar saved is a dollar earned!

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