First Year @ Uni 101

The high school formal is long gone and schoolies is becoming a lingering memory. Now is the time to stop watching day time soaps, get off the coach and prepare yourself for life as a uni student. Before the anxiety of making new friends and the dread of finding your way through the maze of uni life grips you with fear, take a breath and think about how you’re going to afford life in the big bad world (or should we say the big bad uni bar).

Schoolies is a lingering memory. Its the real world now.

Say helloo to 0-week!

O-week, otherwise known as orientation week is the perfect time to get to know the ins and outs of your campus. Your inner child will be reborn in the way of face paint, jumping castles and sumo-wrestling (no we’re not kidding). Through the swathes of market stalls you’ll find society members jumping at the chance to make you a member and it’s a savvy way to save money. For the price of around $5, you’ll get access to great discounts and freebies. The Circus Society seem like a lively bunch!

Roam the free food stalls…

Avoid the over priced food halls and cafes on campus and instead venture to the lush green lawns where food stalls are often scattered. Instead of buying that wholemeal salad sandwich for $10, you’ll be able to grab a hot-dog for free. You might have to listen to a few political rants, but the savings will be worth it!

Get some pocket change!

Once you’ve settled into uni life you’ll be tempted to spend your breaks playing ultimate frisbee but check out your uni’s employment website to see what’s on offer. From market research guinea pig to lecture note taker there will be a job for you!

Find a piggy bank without fees

Make a budget

Now that you’ve got a bit of change to throw around, don’t spend it straight away at Manning Bar or the Round House! Every month set aside money for the necessities (food, travel tickets), any social outings (happy hour, trivia night) and at least attempt to save a buck or two!

Be financially savvy

Save yourself from those ugly bank fees that hurt your piggy bank! Make sure your transaction account is fee free for students. Many financial providers offer free banking for students but require you to show your pretty (or handsome) face in person, along with your student card to prove you’re studying.

Grab a high interest savings account

Once your everyday account is sorted, set up a high interest savings account. There are some great savings accounts in the savings market offering intro rates over 5.50%. Link the everyday account to the high interest savings account and your student finances will be a breeze.

Surviving your first year of uni, doesn’t have to send you broke! Grab those student discounts and any freebies along the way and make sure you’re saving money for a rainy day (AKA Oktoberfest!).

Byline:

Rebeccah Elley

Mozo’s student money expert Rebeccah is a recent UNSW graduate who enjoys nothing more than passing on her tips and tricks for financially surviving uni. Visit the Mozo Student Room for more savvy financial advice!