SSS Counseling Seminar

One of the best subjects students can master while attending college is personal finance. For many students, it may be the first time they will have to balance a checkbook, cope with a credit card or stretch a budget. To handle their finances, say experts, students need a checking account with a check card and online banking, as well as a savings account.

Students should find a bank with national reach. That way students can do their banking at home, school and when they travel. Parents may want to consider linking student accounts with their own, so they can keep an eye on the student's spending, or easily transfer money when necessary.

Students may want to get a check card that is widely accepted and that offers programs to help protect against fraud. By signing up for online banking, students can check their balances, receive and pay bills, view statements and transfer money between accounts online anywhere and anytime they have Internet access-all for free.

Money management is the process of knowing where your money is going now and having a plan in place for where you want it to go in the future.

Goal setting is your chance to figure out what you want and get it without having to borrow. There are three basic types of goals: short-term (achievable in under a year), mid-term (achievable in one to five years), and long-term (achievable in five- plus years). Determine how much your goals will cost and when you want them by.

Budgeting involves knowing what you have coming in and restricting what goes out. A well-designed budget allows you to make the most of your money – you will get rid of wasteful spending while having the cash to pay for the expenses that are really important to you.

Creating a budget often is easier than staying on it. Avoid impulse purchases. Have you ever seen something in a store and bought it on a whim? It can be hard to avoid impulse purchasing completely, but keep your goals in mind. Before buying a product, think about if you really need or can afford it. Dont gamble your money away. Many college students blow off steam by gambling. However, when you gamble, you are more likely to lose money than earn it. If you cannot control your gambling, consider seeking professional help.

Track spending. Knowing where your money is going can help you to examine your spending habits and eliminate expenses that are not necessary.

I hope this information has given you some useful tips. If you have any suggestions for future seminar topics, please see Mrs. Edwards or another Student Support Services staff member. If you are viewing this workshop online, please come by Student Support Services, 109 Eldridge Hall, and complete an Academic Seminar Evaluation form, so that we may have documentation of your program participation. You may also print this form online. EXIT