<p>I love going out. But does anyone have the problem of trying to have fun and not trying to waste too much money at the same time? </p>
<p>I'm a stickler for free parties and alcohol, but I always hate it when my group always feels it's necessary to stop at some ripoff joint or take taxis back to the dorm (it's only 15 minutes away, geez.) </p>
<p>So poor students, what are your strategies for maximising the most partying bang for your buck?</p>
<p>I carry food and a water bottle with me at all times, so I never have to rely on restaurants if I get hungry/thirsty. I never carry much money (like $20 max, but usually more like $5) and I don’t carry my debit cards with me anywhere, so I don’t have the temptation to take money out. I eat before going out to eat. And even though it’s dangerous for a girl to wander around city streets at night, I don’t use taxis, subway etc even when everyone else is doing it. </p>
<p>Oh also always keep your receipts! So many people throw them out but for me it really helps me monitor my spending habits. Like last year I spent far too much money on coffee, so I bought a coffee maker for my dorm room. Or I spend too much money on restaurants when I’m out and starving, so I always carry a granola bar with me now.</p>
<p>this might be called an ignorant thought, but just an idea- </p>
<p>Since you’re admittedly “poor”, why not tone down some of the partying and do good in college. Then get out a high paying job (or start your own business). </p>
<p>College is only 4 years of your life. You have decades to live after you graduate.
Learn to look into the future.</p>
<p>Believe it or not, going out and getting good grades are not mutually exclusive. For me it’s virtually impossible for me to do well in school without going out. If I stay cooped up inside I get really depressed and all I do is sleep. Also, money is not my main motivation in life. Great things have been accomplished in its absence.</p>
<p>i don’t go out as much as i have parties at home. everyone brings over a bottle and hangs out on the roof. this is maybe not possible everywhere. </p>
<p>if you do go out, pre-gaming is key. also, acquire a taste for the cheap stuff. go to bars during happy hour. find parties with cheap or free drinks. </p>
<p>also, trader joe’s three buck chuck, the end.</p>