<p>Was recently discussing college costs with son’s grandmother, who has observed that junior is absolutely determined to avoid excessive student debt. Had to smile because he got that from me.</p>
<p>Things are different today and sad to say that peer group pressure has only made it harder for some students of modest means to enjoy college. One difference is that most meal plans now are mandatory. I deep sixed my school’s meal plan altogether by sophomore year, after reducing my dinning room meals to once a day in the Spring of my Freshman year. We had plenty of cheap deli, restaurant, supermarket options near campus. And I learned how to cook, back when hot plates and toaster ovens in the dorms were legal. Can’t do that today.</p>
<p>Today I wonder if a frugal student would feel stigmatized by working on campus, particularly at a private college. Working takes time from socializing, but it’s a good life lesson.</p>