Student cost of living tips

Hi! My name is Mia, and I’m a third-year student. Being in my last year of university, I am aware of the struggle of trying to earn and save money whilst also keeping on top of my studies (which is even more of a struggle now due to the current cost-of-living crisis). This blog will provide you with some tips and tricks on how to combat this problem.

Part-Time Work

Firstly, my main tip is to get a part-time job. This is a great way to earn some money, whilst not taking up all of your time. A great website to find a part-time job is Indeed. This is because it allows you to specify what job role you are looking for and in what location. Then, Indeed will send you email alerts when a job role that suits your criteria is released! This is also a great time saver as you are not spending hours trying to find a role, they bring the role to you.

However, I would recommend that this part-time role is only for a few days a week as you do not want to feel overwhelmed whilst completing your university work. For example, my part-time role is 2-3 days a week which is the perfect balance for me. Additionally, a part-time job also gives you great transferable skills to put on your CV!

Student Ambassador

Another way I earn some extra money is through my Student Ambassador role at Escape Studios. This role is great as it allows you to select what shifts you would like to apply for. Therefore, the role can work around you and when you have some free time. We also get paid for the number of hours we complete, so it is a great way to earn some extra money!

The different shifts you can apply for include content creation, student representation, helping out at events such as university fairs, and much more. This is also a great role to add to your CV!

Social Life

There is no hiding that going out with your friends and family can get expensive. One of my main tips here is to host events at home. For example, instead of going out for a meal, why not invite your friends or family around but each person brings a different course to eat. This is a great way to save money and can also be a more intimate event!

Alternatively, instead of going out for drinks, each friend or family member can bring a round of cocktails. For example, one person could make a round of Margaritas whilst another could make Espressos.

However, if you are someone who loves to go out, there are other options. The best way to save money is through 'Happy Hours'!

Food and drink

We all know that a long day at university can make you hungry. However, instead of going out with your friends for lunch why not make use of the utilities around you in the campus kitchens? You can bring a ready meal to heat up in the microwave or heat up leftovers from your dinner the night before.

Another option is making use of the hot water tap and bringing a Pot Noodle or Cuppa soup. And don’t forget to use the coffee facilities on campus instead of buying your hot beverages from other places!

I hope this blog has provided you with some helpful tips on how to save and earn some money as a student! For more information make sure to sign up to receive emails from the Money Saving Expert that gives you all the latest deals, guides and loopholes to save money.