As the days of recess, lunch money and school pictures become a thing of the past, and the days of college tuition, textbooks and university fees become a thing of the present (or near future), it can be overwhelming to imagine how you’re going to afford it all. So before you spiral into a state of panic, check out these tips to get you started saving for college right now.
For the big stuff:
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- Invest in a 529 Plan. “A tax-advantaged savings plan designed to encourage savings for future college costs (visit sec.gov for more info).”
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- Apply for scholarships and financial aid. Ask your high school guidance counselor to help you navigate the application process.
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- Get a part-time job in high school and set a little aside from each paycheck. Even 5 percent each month can add up over four years’ time.
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- Find a summer job that will allow you to work during your college breaks if possible – that way you’ll have ways to save money when you’re home for the holidays.
For the smaller stuff:
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- Have a yard sale or sell the clothes you don’t wear anymore to a consignment shop or thrift store like Plato’s Closet – there are locations right here in Berks County!
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- List items you no longer use, like furniture or sports equipment, on eBay or Craigslist. You never know who might be interested in things you no longer have a use for.
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- Ask neighbors to hire you for odd jobs. Mowing their lawn, walking their dog or babysitting their kids are all great ways to earn fast cash that could help you pay for things like textbooks.
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- Keep a piggy bank. It might seem silly, but even loose change adds up over time.
Follow these tips and you’ll be better prepared to afford everything from tuition to textbooks.
