| FFA Nation

Five tips for working your way through college

Jessica Walker | 07/12/2010 |

Going to college is exciting, but it can also be stressful if you’re paying your tuition on your own. Grant Baldwin, student money expert and creator of the financial website www.BrokePiggy.com, offers advice on how to finance your education.

1. WORK, WORK, WORK.
Baldwin says that to help pay for your education, a job is an obvious first place to start, but keep in mind that your schoolwork shouldn't slip because of it.
“There's no magic secret or special pill in order to make it happen,” he says. “You just have to be disciplined and willing to work hard.”

2. BE REALISTIC.
Be honest with yourself about your schedule. Chances are, if you’re a full-time student, you won’t have time for a 9-to-5 job. Instead, scout out jobs with flexible hours.
“In general, businesses that hire a lot of college students understand that you're in school and they need to be at least somewhat flexible with your schedule,” Baldwin says. “They'll be a lot more likely to work with you if you work with them.”

3. STAY ON CAMPUS.
A great way to make money – while saving what you’ve got – is to find an on-campus job. One way to do this is through a work-study program, which most colleges and universities offer.
“Most of the jobs aren’t really glamorous and you may not make a ton, but a huge advantage is the flexibility and location,” Baldwin says. “They know you are taking classes on campus, so they will really work hard to accommodate your schedule.”

4. SAVE IT.
All of your hard work may go to waste if you don’t save the money you make. Baldwin recommends setting aside at least 10 percent of your income, putting it in your savings account or another location where you’re not as tempted to spend it. He also suggests writing out a budget so every dollar is accounted for and you know where your dollars are going.

5. JUST SAY NO.
If at all possible, avoid borrowing money from anyone – period. This includes the bank, friends and family members. “Most of the time, where the degree came from means more to the person who got it than the person reading the resume,” Baldwin says. “If you can't afford to attend that school without taking out loans, you can't afford it.”

For more advice from Baldwin, check out his free e-book "How to Go to College for FREE!" The book can be downloaded at www.BrokePiggy.com.