<p>I think it's fair to say that books for the year will come to roughly 2/3 of your $1500 put aside, Camellia. That doesn't leave a lot for other things -- and the "unaccountability" of your own funds is attractive. Avoids those parental tugs-of-war!</p>
<p>Personally, I'd get a job for 5-10 hours a week. It will get you out of the books and into the real world for at least a little while, and probably broaden your social life in the process. If your parents decide to give you a small allotment, then try to put some money away against next year's expenses.</p>