Savvy Student

Superbowl XLVI: Giants VS Pats VS your education?

2012-01-25T10:44:00.002-05:00

It's that exciting time of year when football fans everywhere will gather around their televisions and enjoy the annual Superbowl Party feast. With tickets costing upwards of $2,500 and with 30 second ads going for as much as $4,000,000, this savvy student can't help but wonder just what that kind of money could be used for at Brandeis.

Did you know?
The cost of two tickets to Superbowl XLVI is greater than the cost of taking a four credit course at Brandeis University.

Did you know?
With the money that some big spenders are paying for a simple 30 second ad during the Superbowl ($4,000,000), you could pay Brandeis tuition and housing for 80 students.

And, it isn't just the fans and companies who are throwing all of their money into Superbowl XLVI. The city of Indianapolis, which is hosting this year's big game, signed a lease that ensured a large profit for the NFL. Not only are "all rental and use fees... waived," but in addition to that, "The NFL also gets 100 percent of all money from ticket sales, concessions, and premium-priced merchandise." Essentially, the NFL takes over the Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis for a solid month and takes 100 percent of all of their profits.

With all of these combined methods of profit, from ticket sales to ad space to the profit they are receiving through their agreement with Lucas Oil Stadium, these NFL tycoons could probably pay for the college tuition and housing of at least half of the students at Brandeis University and still have a hefty amount left over.

One thing is for sure, there's more to this game than a simple Brady/Manning rematch. Each player is given 15 Super Bowl tickets for friends and family- that's roughly $36,000 or almost a year's worth of tuition for one student (times all the Pats/Giants players), and we are not even talking about the cost to hire security detail or referees. So, when you are tuned in to the February 5 game think about the money invested in producing such an important sports event and how the top commercials impact you as a consumer.

Go Pats! Go Giants!
Savvy Student

Source:
http://www.wthr.com/story/16583105/contracts-outline-nfl-control-of-lucas-oil-stadium-convention-center

The Cost of a Cup of Joe

2012-01-10T15:55:00.001-05:00

Starbucks recently announced a price increase of 10 cents per cup which some may chalk up as just another increase or sign of the times, while others may think of it as a direct hit to the coffee consumer. Either way, Savvy Student wanted to look deeper into the increase to see how it really impacts the wallet, especially since students like their coffee and often times more than once per day.

Here in Boston, many are willing to spend as much as $6 a day on coffee. If this habit is kept up for one year it would be at a cost of over $2,000. For those purchasing one cup a day at an average cost of $2.50, the annual investment is near $1,000.

There are cheaper alternatives. For those not interested in drinking yesterday's left overs, K-cup is a good option. Coffee machines like Keurig are set up to conveniently brew one cup at a time. But while this cup of joe isn't as much of a budget buster as the one you may buy at Starbucks or Dunkin, it still costs money. K-Cups, for the keurig machine, can cost 84 cents a cup.

If your budget is tight your best option may still be the old school pot of coffee. According to a recent survey conducted by Consumer Reports, a bag of Starbucks coffee was compared to a bag of Walmart's Great Value. For both price and taste Great Value beat out the coffee chain at a rate of roughly $3.50/bag versus $8 per bag of ground coffee.

As prices rise on many consumer goods, its important to cut costs wherever we can!

Stay savvy!

Sources:
Tuttle, Brad. "No Joke: Walmart Coffee Tastes As Good As Starbucks | Moneyland | TIME.com." Moneyland | Financial Insights from Your Wallet to Wall Street | TIME.com. Time, 4 Aug. 2011. Web. 04 Jan. 2012. .

Tuttle, Brad. "Starbucks Raising Coffee Prices in Northeast, Sunbelt States | Moneyland | TIME.com." Moneyland | Financial Insights from Your Wallet to Wall Street | TIME.com. Time, 04 Jan. 2012. Web. 04 Jan. 2012. .

To tip, or not to tip, that is the question

2011-12-22T10:50:00.004-05:00

What do the following professions have in common: a waiter, a hair dresser, a taxi driver and a pet groomer?

Answer: Tips

Tips are considered a part of their wages, and as the patron you are supposed to offer a little compensation for their services! But, ask anyone and I am sure they will admit to being unclear as to what is considered fair. Sure, tipping the wait staff at restaurants has become routine, but visits to a hair salon or spa, taking a taxi or using a concierge service are more likely to be done on occasion. Therefore, most people are not as confident with tipping etiquette for such services.

Boston.com has prepared a brief guide to tipping that will help you in those oh so uncomfortable situations, and this is far better, less cliche than the plastic, wallet size tip charts we had decades ago. For example, if you buy take-out food tipping is not expected from you, but if you are getting a manicure 15% tip is the way to go.

Interestingly enough, according to a survey by PayScale.com , 52% of hotel maid service income consists of tips, and such compensation covers up to 41% of a rabbi's income!

Some other important tipping highlights to keep in mind: tip the bar tender $1 per drink or 15% of the total bill, tip your delivery food person 10% and $2-5 for your cab driver.

Happy Holidays from Savvy Student!!!!

References:

http://www.pfadvice.com/2006/12/18/how-much-should-you-tip/

http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2006/10/12/basic-tips-on-tipping-how-much-and-to-whom/

The cost of your skipped classes

2011-12-15T09:52:00.001-05:00

Have you ever wondered how much it costs you every time you choose to skip a class?

Savvy Student decided to calculate the approximate amount and here are the results.
If you take Brandeis per semester tuition of $20,257 and divide it by # of classes you are enrolled in, and then by 15 weeks of instruction, you will end up with about $337.61 per class per week.

If you take four courses per semester, each class is worth about $112.53!

On one hand, tuition is a set cost, so if you choose to take five classes the cost per class will go down. It also obviously does not matter whether you go to all or none of your classes since the tuition will remain the same.

Economists sometimes refer to this fallacy as the "sunk cost fallacy". Once you have paid your tuition, these funds have already been "sunk," and thus don't play a role in your decision making. Interestingly enough, animals and small children don't think this way!

On the other hand, there is an opportunity cost to every class you skip, which consists of the information you miss out on. So, really, unless you have a flu, you should always attend your lectures.

However, in case you ever doubt whether or not you should be going to class, you can always use the Skip Class Calculator , which, after asking you several questions about the course, will tell you whether the skipped class is likely to play a big difference in the long-run!

However, if you are studying for your finals now and wondering how you could have helped yourself be more prepared, the answer of course is, by going to class. And now you know that you would have also saved $$$!

Good luck with finals ;)

Savvy Student

Money Matters - at Home and Abroad

2011-12-09T11:55:00.005-05:00

The questions that our office gets concerning Study Abroad Financing are infinite...
It is time for the SavvyStudent to try to clarify those, so read ahead!

BEFORE YOU GO ABROAD:

The main things to keep in mind:

- Pay Brandeis tuition by January 6th, 2012 (this will also include a study abroad fee of $400).
- Make sure you are aware what the costs are for your program's room and board, and you have received that bill as well.
- If needed, book an appointment with a financial aid advisor to discuss any additional options you have to assist you with the fees. Please, do so by contacting us at (781) 736 3700.
- If you are planning to use a Brandeis financial award when abroad, be aware that Credit Refunds will not be processed earlier than 10 days before the start of classes in the Spring semester. This means no earlier than January 7th. Please, account for mailing time if requestuing the check to an address abroad or in the US.
Please, refer to our comprehensive post from this spring for further details.

ONCE YOU ARE ABROAD:

Savvy Student won't be able to provide you with a spreadsheet for all the costs you will encounter when abroad, however, these are some questions you should strat thinking about:

- To prepare, first, do research on your country destination: what is the currency conversion rate? What is the average cost of a meal? How much does public transportation cost? Can you save by buying a pass?
- Most programs will send you a brochure containing most of the answers to the above questions, however, some research won't hurt. You can always contact students who have already done the same program and inquire of their monthly budget. The Study Abroad Office has an alumni base for all Brandeis approved programs, don't hesitate to utilize that! Keep in mind - everyone has their own spending limits!
- This being said - what is your budget going to be? Does your program provide daily/weekly meals? Are you planning to go out? Will you cook? Will you have to buy pots/pans? Buy souvenirs for 25 relatives? Shop for clothes? Travel around the country or abroad? PLAN ACCORDINGLY!
- Depending on the area of the world you are travelling to the cost of living may be higher or lower than in the U.S. However, regardless of where you are, be ready to face the fact that you will have more expenses than you would normally have at Brandeis. If you have a student job on campus, your student visa won't necessarily allow you to work in the country you are - so make sure you have pocket money on you!

If you have more suggestions or comments on how to budget abroad, please, feel free to share them with Brandeis Savvy Student! Your feedback is always welcome!

~Savvy Student

The Real Deal on the Occupy Movement- How Much it's Actually Costing

2011-11-29T09:46:00.005-05:00

On the eve of the two month anniversary of the Occupy Movement, NYC Mayor Bloomberg commented on his decision to clear out Zuccotti Park, saying, "Protestors have had two months to occupy the park with tents and sleeping bags. Now they will have to occupy the space with the power of their arguments"

This statement and the Occupy Movement have truly become a symbol of the latter half of 2011 reflecting the dramatic downfalls in the economy and public dissatisfaction with the decisions made by politicians in attempts to tackle these problems. The protest has quickly spread around the country being taken on by the enthusiastic "99%". The movement, however, has also been critiqued by many arguing that, in fact, the participants are not as diverse as they present themselves to be. Whatever the make-up of the crowd it is important to point out their incredible ability to self-organize, while noting that the city governments have been nothing but respectful towards the freedom of speech and self-expression.

Since the Movement is addressing today's economic challenges it is only natural to be curious as to the costs involved with such a wide spanning, long lasting event. So, Savvy Student has done some research and come across the following information...

Occupy Wallstreet has became a tourist attraction and has inspired more than $500,000 in donations!

By Oct. 11th the New York Police Department already spent $1.9 million, mostly in overtime pay, to patrol the area near Zuccotti Park, where hundreds of protesters were camping out for several weeks.

By Oct. 27th in New York City, overtime costs were $3.4 million. In Minneapolis, the sheriff’s department reported spending $200,000. And in Boston, the tally was $2 million.

By Nov. 13th The New York Post reported on the effects that the Occupy Movement had on many small businesses in the Zuccotti Park area. They have lost approximately $500, 000 in profits since the protestors took over the park making it unapproachable for the use of others.

By this time Public Safety chair Councilman Peter Vallone reported the total costs of NYPD have risen to $5 million.

At the same time, in a city like New York protests and demonstrations are not a novelty."By comparison, it cost about $50 million for one week to secure the Republican National Convention in 2004." Roughly $5 million spent on the Occupy does not seem to be a big sum in the context of $66 billion annual budget of the City.

Not everyone, however, shares the city officials' respect and commitment to the freedom of speech. Some Occupy participants have reported losing their jobs, because their employers did not approve of their involvement with the protests. It is perhaps an extreme example, yet, it makes one reflect on the ways and means of expressing opinions. The Brandeis community has a reputation of being highly involved with activist demonstrations, but do we often evaluate the financial costs of such?

~Savvy Student

References:

http://www.quora.com/How-much-does-Occupy-Wall-Street-cost-New-York-City-each-day/answer/Avi-Atkin

http://www.digtriad.com/news/local/article/198990/57/The-Cost-To-Occupy-Winston-Salem

http://www.theblaze.com/stories/occupy-wall-street-costs-local-nyc-businesses-close-to-500k/

http://www.gobankingrates.com/banking/is-the-cost-of-occupy-wall-street-worth-it/

Black Friday: A day of dazzling deals or a day of devious deception?

2011-11-21T11:40:00.008-05:00

Black Friday: The day when the daring shoppers of America venture out of their homes at three in the morning to fight off their fellow (wo)man for unbelievable savings. The day that kicks off the retailer's holiday season, providing approximately 20% of annual sales.

However, it seems that these coveted deals may not be as miraculous as advertisers lead us to believe. That beautiful new Samsung TV that you buy for half of the original price may be half of the quality as well. The products are being referred to as "derivative" products and there are a few substantial differences between these products and the original products. In fact, in a 2009 investigation, Consumer Reports highlighted derivative electronics and "found that these products are generally manufactured more cheaply, sometimes with less-expensive components, and that they are generally missing a few features present on the standard models" (Time.com).

If you're worried about purchasing a derivative product, be sure to check the model number. If the product is a derivative, the model number will be slightly different from the model number listed for the original product.

Some other Black Friday deals are questionable as well:

Beware of store credit cards! Although many stores will dazzle you with extra savings if you sign up for their credit cards, this discount could be taking points off from your credit score, which could be detrimental to you if you plan on applying for a loan in the near future.

Some of the deals that retailers such as Staples or Best Buy boast about are equal to deals that can be found frequently online.

Some stores require that you mail in a rebate in order to actually get the deal.

For more information on Black Friday, check out this article from Time.com.

Hopefully these tips will help you have a successful, derivative-free Black Friday!

Happy holidays!

Savvy Student

Unmentioned Holiday Spending Advice

2011-11-17T15:49:00.003-05:00

It's that time of year, where the holidays are just around the corner. But before you being your Black Friday shopping spree keep this holiday spending advice in mind, brought to you by Forbes:

1) The human element: Although you might make a budget, when you actually go into the store, oftentimes, that budget goes right out the window. The reason? Your emotions. Once you enter the store, you begin to think that your friend, parent, or significant other deserves more than a $20 dollar gift card. So, you begin searching, oftentimes spending more than you had originally intended. The key to avoiding this is to be aware of the emotions of the gift recipient. If you are in tune with one another, you won't end up wasting money on gifts that you might like but that the recipient won't really appreciate.

2) The reciprocity rule: We've all been there. You are exchanging gifts and you receive an expensive gift. The feeling of guilt washes over you, as you realize that you did not spend nearly as much as they did. Or worse, you're in the store, and you think that the gift recipient will spend much more on you than what you're planning to spend on them, so you decide to get something else instead, something more expensive. Forbes says, the "unwritten reciprocity rule" is more about dollars spent then it is about value. However, shoppers should try to reframe the rule, making it about the value of the gift instead of just the amount spent.

3) The "add-ons": You're shopping in your favorite store with a goal in mind, to buy your friends gifts. But out of the corner of your eye you spot that sweater than you've been drooling over for a month now. You're more likely to purchase it now, maybe even using the excuse, "Well, this will be a holiday gift for myself..." In addition to these purchases, stores often use tactics which help encourage shoppers to spend. They change the lighting, music, and merchandise layout, all to make sure that you spend. All of this drives up the statistics of holiday spending, and making quite the dent in your wallet. The best thing to do is to be aware of these tactics and don't let them sway you.

Be sure to keep these pieces of advice in mind when heading out to do your holiday shopping!

To read the whole Forbes article click here.

Happy Shopping!

Savvy Student

Under $20 Holiday Gifts

2011-11-15T10:16:00.001-05:00

It may be hard to believe, but the with Thanksgiving around the corner, there's something we're all beginning to think about: holiday shopping. Holidays are hard when you're on a budget- and while we at savvy student are big fans of home made gifts, we know that sometimes time is of the essence, so we've been doing our research to find some great gift ideas for $20 or under at some of our favorite retailers.

Pier 1 Imports - http://www.pier1.com/

When you think cheap, your first thought is probably not Pier 1, but they have a lot of great jewlery, scarves and nick nacks on the cheap. We found some beautiful earrings for less than $5 in the clearance bin! Other steals can be found in nice frames, beautiful candles and a crazy hula girl duster!

Fred Flare - http://www.fredflare.com/
Fred Flare is a fun site to find unique clothing and odds and ends that you won't see other places. They have many silly apartment goods, including a "Nice Jewish Guys" calendar for just $16 and a duckie tea infuser for just $15. You can also get good ol' space ice cream for just $5.

Uncommongoods - http://www.uncommongoods.com/
Uncommongoods which self-promotes their "unique gifts and creative design" has a lot of fun stuff for cheap. From hats to tic tac toe plates for $15 you'll find interesting and creative gifts here for sure!

Forever 21- http://www.forever21.com/ Local store on Newbury Street in Boston

While most Forever 21 stores do not have men's and women's clothes, online you can find great deals for clothes and accessories for everyone on your list, including teeshirts for $10 or less. You can also find gender-neutral scarves and mittens for cheap in store and online.

Amazon- http://www.amazon.com/
Always a favorite for students because of the free "prime" shipping deal (Register with your Brandeis email here!) There are a lot of great finds on the site, including a lot of $5 MP3 albums that you can send to a friend electronically!

Urban Outfitters - http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/ Local stores in both Boston and Cambridge

Not only can you find some great steals in the bargain basement at Urban in Cambridge, there are also a lot of fun and unique items for sale on their website.

Restoration Hardware - http://www.restorationhardware.com/
Don't let the title fool you, there are a lot of fun things to buy on this site that have nothing to do with furniture or hardware! We like to go to the stocking stuffers section for some great deals, for some interesting gifts for everyone on your list: including a pocket microscope for just $15 (science friends?) and a race car night light for $18! (the friend who has everything?)

Bath and Body Works - http://www.bathandbodyworks.com Local stores in Watertown and Boston

If you do it right, you can really get some great deals at Bath and Body Works. There are a lot of savings if you buy multiple of different lotions or soaps, like the antibacteral soap, 4 for $15. There are also some fun gift sets, including the $10 travel-ready sets!

Something important to think about: shipping. Many times small online purchases can get costly if you're paying $5-10 on shipping alone. There are sometimes "deals" with free shipping if you spend a certain amount, but that's often for purchases of $50 or more. That being said, you can combine your order with a friend or two to get the deal, or search online for coupon codes for free shipping (retailmenot.com is a great resource for this too!) With Black Friday coming soon, many retailers are celebrating "Cyber Monday" and offering even more great deals with potentially free shipping on smaller orders. Be on the lookout for these deals!

Shop savvy,

Savvy Student

You're Charging Me What?

2011-11-10T13:33:00.004-05:00

How often have you heard the term "Nothing in life is free"? Although this is a sad reality for many things, it's hard to swallow when free checking accounts no longer exist without meeting certain financial requirements.

According to an article from the Boston Globe via Boston.com, several area banks, including the Brandeis top three, BOA, Citizens and Sovereign all have monthly maintenance fee's. And, when it comes to hard earned work study funds who wants to pay fees on top of taxes?

Bank of America is said to be charging $6 per month on their most basic checking account, separate and apart from their recently scrapped $5 debit card fee. Citizens is charging $4.99 unless you meet their waiver criteria, while Sovereign Bank also charges $500 unless you keep a minimum daily balance of $500 in your account.

The most expensive bank fee comes from First Republic Bank. They charge $18 per month unless you have a minimum balance of $1,800 and to even open an account you must deposit $500. First Republic does have a basic checking account with a more reasonable $3 monthly charge, but only in New York.

If you want to read the article and view other local bank fee's click here.

~Savvy Student

I'll be home for Christmahanakwanzika, if only in my dreams!

2011-11-07T10:47:00.010-05:00

With spring registration upon us, it's hard to believe that we are more than half way through the semester and already into the start of November. This fall in particular, we have been especially lucky to have vacation days spread throughout much of September and October. Refer to the Academic Calendar for specific days with NO class! Yay! And, with the holiday season in full view, it is time to start planning. Remember the "early bird catches the worm," or, in this case, the deal.

Some of you will choose to stay around campus for Thanksgiving and other holidays, but many will travel near and far to visit friends and family. Even getting to Boston requires some logistical planning! To continue our Travel themed NYC bus post, here are some more tips from Savvy Student Traveler!

Airports, oh, don't we love them all!

BOSTON LOGAN INTERNATIONAL
To reach the Logan Airport take the 553 Bus from Cappy's Pizza to South Station (not on weekends). From there take the Silver Line to Logan Airport.
Total: $2.80 (with Charlie Card)
-OR-
Take the commuter rail (Fitchburg Line) to Porter Square, Cambridge. Switch for the Subway (Red Line) to South Station. Take the Silver Line Bus to Logan Airport.
Total: $4.75 + $1.70 = $6.45 (with Charlie C ard)
-OR-
Take a Cab
Total : $50 - 70

Remember: You can always share a ride with your friends, room- and hallmates! (Remember, however, fares can vary depending on the number of passengers.)

PROVIDENCE T.F GREEN AIRPORT
Logan serves many national and international airlines, however, don't foget that it is not your only option. The T.F Green Airport in Providence is well served amongst many by: AirCanada, Continental, Delta, United, US Airwaves.
It is easier than you might think to get from T.F Green to Boston:
Take the direct commuter rail train to Boston South Station (Providence Line). In about an hour you will be downtown, hop on the Red Line and take the train to Brandeis from Porter Square!
Total: $8.25 + $4.75 = $13

FOOD AND TRAVEL
Eating at the airport can be very costly!
After checking-in your bag, going through security and finding your gate, you are exhausted! As you sit down in the waiting area, you will realize that you have at least another hour till boarding (if the flight is not delayed) and, by the time the flight attendant will serve you dinner you are starving! Sounds familiar?
In the rush to the airport it is easy to forget to grab a snack. However, if you don't want to spend a ton on that Starbucks sandwich, you probably want to plan ahead, which can save you $$$.

1. Before going to the airport pack an EMPTY water bottle.
You will pay at least $ 2.50 JUST for water after you go through the security check.

2. Take snacks with you! Chips, crackers and granola bars are safe. Make sure not to bring fruits or dairy products, as those are not allowed if you travel overseas.

3. Wrap up a sandwich to go from home or grab it from Einstein's before leaving Brandeis!

4. Take tea bags or instant coffee with you, so if your airline charges you for drinks, you can just ask for hot water.

If you are willing to splurge a little while waiting at the airport, you can choose from some great dining. Check this out for details about the best airport food from around the country. Boston's very own Logan International Aiport is featured!

CHEAP AIR FARES
For some of the best airfare deals check out the following:
Kayak.com, AirFareWatchDog, and SpiritAirLines

Happy Flying (and eating),
Savvy Student

Make Your Voice Heard to Protect Student Aid

2011-11-04T13:25:00.003-04:00

The Student Aid Alliance is a coalition of 62 higher education organizations united in support of federal student aid. Now more than ever, students need an advocate to preserve the PELL Grant Program and other student aid programs.

Just yesterday, the Student Aid Alliance issued a call to action to their member organizations, requesting help in voicing the opinions of students in support of preserving these programs. Their message is below:

As you well know, the Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction (“the Super Committee”) is crafting a debt reduction plan that may be released as soon as *November 18th*. Additional cuts to student financial aid programs remain on the table, so we wanted to make sure that you were aware that the Student Aid Alliance is mobilizing students to sign a statement of support to reinforce advocacy efforts to preserve the PELL Grant Program and other student aid programs.

Make your voice heard! Sign the Student Aid Alliance statement of support today!

~Savvy Student

Could You Just Remove the Hold While I Register Please?

2011-10-26T13:27:00.005-04:00

The only thing scarier than class registration is All Hallow's Eve the night before, unless you go to add a class on Tuesday and find out that you're Sage account is on hold- now that will cause quite a fright! With spring registration around the corner, we want the process to be full of treats, not tricks, so we thought we would start with a gentle reminder to relieve yourself of any surprises by checking Sage before November 1st.

If you find your account has been placed on hold through Student Financial Services, the top three reasons are either a past due balance, an unsigned promissory note for your loans, and/or a request for documents that have not been received. Each student with a hold from SFS should have been notified by email, so please check your spam filter. Holds are placed on your Sage as a way for our office to notify you of required balances, forms, etc. that we are missing, which means we will not be able to remove the hold temporarily to allow you to register. As cruel as it may sound, we want you to resolve the issue before moving forward, so please take this as advanced notice so that you can register with ease.

If you have a past due balance on Sage you may pay it off with cash or check in the Office of Student Financial Services located on the second floor of USDAN. Payments are also accepted online through a credit card or electronic check.

Most unsigned promissory note holds can be resolved online, but please check with our office for clarification on what is required. All other SFS related holds should be directed to one of our staff members Monday through Friday from 9-5pm.

If there is another hold on your account not related to SFS, please consult that individual office or department to have it removed in time for your enrollment appointment.

Best of luck to you- we do sincerely hope you get into all of your planned courses.

~Savvy Student

6 Things to Never Reveal on Facebook

2011-10-24T11:00:00.001-04:00

As technology flourishes and becomes essential to our everyday life, it is hard to differentiate what is appropriate to put on social media sites such as Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, and dozens more. We all know that jobs are reviewing these sites before hiring, but did you know that ill-advised Facebook postings increasingly can get your insurance cancelled or cause you to pay dramatically more for everything from auto to life insurance coverage. Debt collectors are also throwing away their phone books in favor of searching social networking sites to find people. Savvy Student understands the fear this may instill in most of us, (Pachanga pictures are not always the best representation of our character) so we want you to know six things to never reveal on Facebook.

1. Your Birthdate and Place

Of course you can put your birthday on Facebook but without the year. Identifying the year and birth place allows thieves the opportunity to steal your identity. According to a study done by Carnegie Mellon, identifying a date and place of birth makes it easier for thieves to predict most of the numbers in your social security number. Now that's scary!

2. Minute to Minute Details

Never post something to the extent of " Leaving tonight for Madrid. Won't be back for a week" or "Heading to the grocery store". We understand how excited you are about going home or visiting a new place, but everyone can see that post and know that your belongings are being left unattended. Post the photos on Facebook when you return, if you like. But don’t invite criminals in by telling them specifically when you’ll be gone.

3. Home Address and Phone Numbers

I know that you may find this hard to believe, but many people put their home address and phone numbers on social networking sites. When uploading mobile pictures onto Facebook, it automatically updates your site with that phone number. Please be cautious with such personal information--do not include it ever!

4. Confessions

Your social networking site is exactly that, YOUR site. But it is not the place to admit that you hate your job, lie on your taxes, or are an adamant drinker. Employers commonly peruse social networking sites to determine who to hire — and, sometimes, who to fire.

Need proof? Recently, an emergency dispatcher was fired in Wisconsin for revealing drug use; a waitress got canned for complaining about customers and the Pittsburgh Pirate’s mascot was dumped for bashing the team on Facebook.

5. Password Clues

You may not know that you are doing this, but it is very common on many social networking pages. Because you and your friends are answering each other's quizzes about the most important and personal things in your life, you are allowing hackers to figure out your password. Many of the security question answers you tell Facebook, your friend posted under your quiz "My favorite things", i.e your favorite song of all time.

6. Risky Behaviors

If you like to street race or smoke like a chimney, do not reveal that on your social media site. Insurance companies are accessing your page to see if you are putting yourself or your property at risk. This method of verification is fairly new, but quickly progressing. You can read more about this new phenomenon here.

Safe Posting,

Savvy Student

The Top Ten's for Halloween 2011

2011-10-18T09:59:00.009-04:00

Are you stuck for costume ideas this year? Well, look no further. We found the 10 best newsworthy Halloween costumes for this year along with a list of our Savvy suggestions for those of you who are on a budget.

Time.com has compiled a costume list that doesn't include the cast of Jersey Shore, but get out your poster board and transform yourself into an "Occupy Protestor" because this will probably be your fall 2011 Best Bet for the money. You can read the full article here to see Time Magazine's full list, which includes Kate Middleton and Charlie Sheen, to name a few.

If you are hung up on ideas, try a costume specific to New England. Find an orange jumpsuit or sweatsuit, so that you can become Whitey Bulger for the evening. This is quickly becoming the "it" costume for Halloween 2011. If you have no clue where to buy orange clothes try a hunting or sportsmen store such as Bass Pro Shops or Cabela's. You may also luck out at a thrift shop.

With just a simple pointy hat and black dress you can be a Salem Witch or with a plain white bed sheet you can dress up as a colonial ghost- just remember cutouts for the eyes and mouth. Animals are always a popular costume idea and easy to put together. Sports stars are also an easy and cheap pick for the night. Plus you can take your pick from the Bruins (bring a fake Stanley Cup with you), Celts, Red Sox or Pats.

With a box and duct tape you can dress up as a robot. If the box is too much to walk around in for the night you can use it to make a robot hat and robot cuffs. This also works if you want to go as the tin man from the Wizard of Oz.

As vampires are all the rage this year, dust off your interview suit, apply some makeup and off you go. If you have an old prom dress pull it out of the closet and you can become a character from the movie "Bridesmaids". If you liked the movies "Hangover" or "Hangover 2" you should grow a beard, wear a wrinkled up button down shirt, loose tie and you are ready for the night ahead, or maybe you had too much fun before the night actually began! If you want your costume to be a little more authentic, or if you want to one-up your friends, try to recreate the Mike Tyson tattoo.

There are always options for Halloween costumes, both inexpensive and easy to create. All you need is a little patience and creativity, or a friend who has those traits and is willing to assist you!

Halloween is fast approaching, so if you have costume ideas for your fellow Brandeisian's drop us a note and we'll post it for you.

Happy Halloween,

Savvy Student

Take Away for a Rainy Day!

2011-10-13T14:47:00.000-04:00

Let's be honest, you may not always be in the mood for campus food or it may be a typical rainy Boston day when the last thing you want to do is leave your dorm. How about calling for delivery?

Ordering in is always tricky especially if you have not been to the restaurant or even tried their food. Savvy Student has compiled a list of some of the best delivery restaurants around campus that won't put a hole in your pocket.

There are multiple Asian restaurants around the area, but Pho & Spice is one of the best options. Here, you can find Thai, Japanese, and Chinese with a great list of Vegetarian options. It is open until 10 P.M. with a $15 minimum fee and a $2 delivery charge. It may be a little pricy but the menu is worth it. The best part is you can order online!

Cheap Chinese food is always a late night favorite. For the best cheap, open-late Chinese food, you can order from Asia Wok. This little place on Main St. is open until 1 A.M. on weekdays and 2 A.M. on weekends. Asia Wok offers over ten different fried rice options and sweet & sour anything for very reasonable prices. It's delicious!

Feeling spicy? Ordering Indian from Bombay Mahal will do the trick. You can order any type of meat or vegetable prepared in any sort of way, with a sauce ranging from mild to super spicy. The restaurant is open everyday until 10 P.M.

Say Olay! when you call for delivery from Waltham's Mexican food gem, Taqueria Mexico. The little hub offers free delivery until 10 P.M. every night and 11 P.M. on the weekends. Taqueria offers a huge menu of very authentic Mexican cuisine for a very small price. You can get eight different kinds of tacos for just $2!!!

Wanting something a little sweet? Have you ever ordered frozen yogurt for delivery? Well, now you can with Prospect Deli, a very popular delivery place for Brandeis students. They offer any flavor and topping combination possible. A student favorite, not only for it's frozen yogurt, but also for it's yummy menu.

For these restaurants and more, check out CampusFoods, a great way to order directly on line for your favorite restaurants. You can also get discounts!

Happy eating!

Savvy Student

Enjoy the B's on a Budget!

2011-10-06T15:48:00.004-04:00

Did the Red Sox put you in bad spirits? Don't fear, the Bruins are here!

The Boston Bruins season starts TONIGHT... and while you may be watching it on TV today, there are lots of ways to be savvy about tickets and get yourself at the "Gaahhden."

We've done our research and found that there are tickets available through Ticketmaster for just $15! Other places to look for tickets (but probably not for any less than $15...) are the following:

-Ace Tickets

-GoTickets
-StubHub

Also, be on the lookout for college nights, there are specials on tickets from time to time that are only for card-carrying college students!

Go B's!

-Savvy Student

Savvy October Fun

2011-10-03T10:00:00.000-04:00

October has become synonymous with Halloween. Once 10/01 hits, pumpkins and ghostly arrangements are already placed outside homes, dorm rooms and even grocery stores. Savvy Student understands the excitement and rising anticipation for this wildly fun holiday, as well as the desire to escape some of the decorative skeletons and spiders for a while. Here's a few fun October festivities for everyone, whether you're in the Halloween spirit or just want to get out and enjoy the crisp autumn air!

1. Psychic Fair and Witch Expo

FREE and happening October 1st to the 31st! Come join the city of Salem at their Museum Place Mall, which will feature tarot card reading, mediums and spirit guides. You can also view a list of events happening in Salem here.

2. Fear at Fenway

From October 28-November 6, Fenway will be taken over by Spooky World for the very first time. Imagine the legendary Big Concourse filled with three haunted attractions that will spook your world. To buy tickets, click here.

3. Halloween - the Mass Aubudon way

Mass Aubodon works to protect wildlife and people in Massachusetts. It takes care of 34,000 acres of conservation land and provide educational programs from thousands of children and adults to participate in. October 28-29, come to the Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary to learn about the creatures of the night. You are even encouraged to come in costume! Advanced registration is required so read more and register here.

4. Vegetarian Food Festival

The 15th Annual Vegetarian Food Festival is back from October 29-30, where you can enjoy free samples from natural food providers and top chefs from around the world. Read the details about the festival by clicking here.

5. Head of the Charles Regatta

On October 22 -23, the world's largest two day regatta will take place along the Charles River. Starting from the Boston University Boathouse to the Artesani Playground in Brighton, this event is one not to miss. Many of the tents and excitement are generally located near Harvard, where there are at least 3 bridges within walking distance of each other with great viewing points of the races. Brandeis Crew will have at least one men's boat rowing that day, so be sure to show your Brandeis pride while you're there!

These are just a few of the exciting upcoming events happening in October. Check out sites like boston.com, or just search the internet for local apple orchards (and their prices!) to satisfy those Fall cravings.

Happy October,

Savvy Student

And Yet Another Fee?

2011-09-30T11:09:00.007-04:00

If you missed the news this morning then you missed a very important announcement regarding banking fees and the ever evolving economic crisis. Several banks are testing out new fees while Bank of America has made the decision to move forward and charge their debit card customers $5 per month, a change that will go into effect in early 2012. BOA will roll out their fees in stages in order to help recuperate the loss of revenue caused by a Federal regulation capping the fees that banks can collect from merchants when customers swipe their debit cards. In 2009 those fees generated nearly $19 billion in revenue. In response to tomorrow's new regulation banks are pushing debit card fees with the hope that customers will become increasingly reliant on credit cards thereby generating other sources of revenue.

Bank of America has assured its customers that the fee will not apply to ATM use and will be applied monthly for unlimited debit card use. Still, we at Savvy Student have to wonder, where we can draw the line on fees. With Bank of America beginning their exploration of the new fee system, many banks are following suit, including JP Morgan, Chase and Company and Wells Fargo.

Sun Trust, a regional bank in Atlanta, GA began charging their customers this past summer, however, BOA is the largest U.S. bank by deposits, so it is making national headlines.

If you would like to read more about the new $5 fee check out the WHDH report here or the CNNMoney article here.

If this post was helpful let us know. If you turned red in the face and steam came out of your ears then you are not alone.

Awe such is life,

Savvy Student

Boltbus or Megabus?

2011-09-27T13:18:00.012-04:00

Both MegaBus and Boltbus were launched in 2008, which was an excellent time to attract recession-stirred folks looking for alternative modes of travel. Offering modern buses, outlets, free Wi-fi and extra legroom these buses quickly became the ideal choice of transit for college students, penny-pinching backpackers and even entrepreneurs who frequent major cities for business or pleasure.

So which to choose?

First, let's review the ammenities, as summed up by a travel blog.

WiFi: Bolt: Yes Megabus: Yes

Power Outlets: Bolt: Yes Megabus: Varies

Leg Room: Bolt: Good Megabus: Tighter

On Time: Bolt: Varies Megabus: Variess

Personnel: Bolt: OK Megabus: Great

Second, what about price?

A small sampling of the prices at the time of writing this shows Megabus to be a bit cheaper.

Bolt: 9/29 - $15
10/7 - $23-$32

Megabus: 9/29 - $10-$13
10/7 $13-$24

The Verdict? If you're interested solely in saving a buck, opt for Megabus. If leg room and/or power outlets are a deal breaker, choose Boltbus.

In addition to these options, there are always the more expensive alternatives such as Limo Liner or Peter Pan bus lines. Limo Liner rates were as high as $68, however, their advantage is leg room, smaller number of travelers and ease of access to the city. Peter Pan bus lines advertise rates as low as $1, however, in our comparison research we kept running into rates as high as $40. Lucky Star and Fung Wah buses also provide cheap transportation between Boston and NYC, except they have mixed reviews over safety and value, so the verdict is out on these two options.

Whether you are planning to travel now or in the future we hope this information was helpful. If you have any hot tips for cheap travel please let us know and we will post the info.

Happy Trails,
Savvy Student

Welcome to Candidate Gateway...

2011-09-20T10:00:00.001-04:00

The fall semester marks the start of a new academic calendar and a whole slew of opportunities, from new classes to new relationships and even student employment. Whether you have Federal Work Study or you just need some extra cash working on-campus is one of the most convenient ways to earn money.

In order to obtain on-campus employment you must:

Receive a BLUE EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY CARD from the Office of Student Financial Services

In order to receive a blue card, you must come to the Office of Student Financial Services (located at Usdan 130) to complete the I-9 form. You must have acceptable original documents with you to prove your identity and your eligibility to work. The I-9 Form and the list of acceptable documents are available here.

*You will need to show your blue card to employers when you go into an interview so that they know you have completed all of the necessary paperwork.

Use the NEW online website to apply for jobs

The website can be found here. If it is your first time on the website, you must register by clicking "Register Here." Before you are able to fully submit your job applications you will have to upload a resume to the website and enter some biographical information. Once you have successfully submitted the applications you will get an acknowledgement email. If the supervisor finds that your qualifications match their need they will contact you for an interview.

*Need resume help? Visit Hiatt in Usdan 15 or visit the Hiatt website here for tips, samples, strategies, and advice on crafting a stand-out resume.

Sign up for direct deposit

After finding employment you will want to sign up for direct deposit, the most efficient way to receive your paycheck. After being hired, you will receive an email asking you to log on to sign up for direct deposit. You can also find the direct deposit website here.

*If you have any questions regarding your direct deposit, contact the payroll office. You can find their contact information here.

Happy job hunting!

~Savvy Student

This Weekend: Music, Arts and Friends - What else could you Wish for?

2011-09-16T09:33:00.015-04:00

While rushing to a 9 am class in the morning, you might notice that everyone seems to be walking even faster just to stay warm. Feeling the crisp fall breeze, getting your sweaters out - but wait, there is still some time left to enjoy the sun in New England!

The next two weekends in Boston are full of free events that YOU should be at!

September 17th

MixFest 2011 at the DCR Memorial Hatch Shell

Amongst the artists performing this year are: Lifehouse, Grace Potter and the Nocturnals, Michelle Branch, Sarah Bareilles and Javier Colon!

Septemebr 18th

Opening of the Linde Family Wing of Contemporary Art at the MFA

The MFA is celebrating the Opening of their new modern art galleries with a 24-hour event. The first 12 hours have ticketed admission, but on Sunday the 18th the Museum is free for all and is full of wonderful activities such as short films, zumba classes and a performance of the Boston Typewriter Orchestra! Check it out!

September 24th

Berklee BeanTown Jazz Festival on Columbus Ave.

If you are too busy this weekend, no worries, there is something else to look forward!

During the weekend of September 23rd to 25th the Berklee College of Music is organizing their annual open-air music festival. On Saturday there will be several stages set-up on Columbus Ave. in the South End. In addition the street will be full of various vendors of food, clothes and jewelry! But the music and awesome atmosphere are FREE!

Savvy student hopes you will enjoy your time at any of the above!

Buying Books? Here are your options!

2011-09-08T11:14:00.000-04:00

As the Fall semester begins and the registration period is coming to a close, it's now time to start thinking about books; not just ordinary fun-reads, but must-haves for the classroom. And, as there are several options between buying new, buying used or renting Savvy Student is here to help you save money and navigate your options.

The Brandeis Bookstore has all of these options, and has all of your textbooks available. But be aware of the return policy! The bookstore also offers a buy back option at the end of the semester, where it offers students the option of selling their textbooks back. Make sure to ask the bookstore for info on that!

Websites such as Half, Amazon, and Barnes and Noble, are great places to start comparing prices. These sites offer textbooks at huge discounts, and there are options to rent, buy used, or buy completely new. It's up to you!

If you're a fan of renting books, there are several top notch websites that can help you do so. To compare all the rental prices, check out TextbookRentals. Also, a popular textbook rental source is Chegg, which even comes with a 21 day rental return guarantee, in case you decide to drop or switch classes. With flexible rental times and free shipping both ways, CampusBookRentals is also a great site. They offer a wide selection and are often very cheap!

In addition, Amazon let's students rent textbooks to their kindle, which provides an innovative alternative to a regular textbook. You can also buy books to your ipad. Textbooks are definitely keeping up with technology!

It's also useful to ask your professor if using an older edition is permitted, because previous editions are oftentimes cheaper than current ones. Usually there are minimal differences between the texts and professors don't mind. Also, some students prefer using the International Edition of a textbook, which is typically the exact same text, with a cheaper price tag.

We hope you try these tips since there are often lots of discounts when it comes to textbooks, it just takes a little time and effort.

Happy reading!

Savvy Student

Hey First Years-Here's What You Don't Learn at Orientation...

2011-08-18T10:28:00.002-04:00

Now that you're here and an official Brandeis student we want to give you the scoop on campus life- the real deal! We want to help you with your list of "Must Haves" and "Have Not's" for the semester. Think of Savvy Student as your "Dorm Life For Dummies" Guide, things we wish we had known entering Brandeis, but only recently discovered.

First and foremost, since we are a financial forum we found a really great article in Time Moneyland which features 9 awesome tips for students wanting to open their first credit card! You can't miss this editorial, so check it out here.

As a new student decorating your dorm room or at least adding a little "charm" to the painted brick is quite an undertaking. So, we have gathered a top ten list of the most important items that you will need to take along with you, as well as a list of the one's most students found unnecessary. And, what you might find topping the charts is probably not the first thing you would think to grab for, but landing at #1 is a First Aid kit, for obvious reasons. #2 Sewing Kit, not the "Project Runway" sewing machine, but the "I just lost a button- help" kit. #3 Fan, for those dorm rooms that get "hot, hot, hot". #4 Mini Vac, for those that like to keep it clean. #5 Quarters, quarters and more quarters for laundry, vending machines and the like. #6 Umbrella and Rain Boots because sometimes you just feel like "Singing in the rain"and not getting wet. #7 Flip Flops for the shower- it is a necessary evil. #8 Shower Caddy because you can't hold soap, shower gel, bath poof, shampoo and towel all at the same time- you just can't! #9 Desk Lamp or Book Light, for late night cram sessions when your roomie is fast asleep. #10 Extension cord, just because the outlets are not always in the most convenient of places.

Items on our not too hot list include over the door hangers-mostly because they don't fit and you will find yourself shoving the door closed. There is no need for door mats, decorative string lights or excessively pricey bedding and pillows. Remember you want it to feel like home, but you are moving into the dorms, not Shangri La. Save the nice stuff for your first place! Also less is more. The rooms may be too tight and cramped for lots of additional furniture. It is best to organize what to bring with your roomie(s) and to shop once you know your space limitations.

Once you have arrived and settled in you may want to explore campus and it's surroundings- greater Waltham, Boston or even The Cape. And, without a car what is the best way to get around? Well, Zipcar of course! Other options include the new bike share program in Boston, Hubway or DeisBikes right here on campus. With each of these programs students can inexpensively run errands or explore new areas. Check out the Brandeis Transportation Overview here. Zip Car requires a membership and driver's must be 18 or older. The cars are located in the Stoneman/Public Safety parking lot. Brandeis also offers shuttle service in and around Waltham, Cambridge and Boston.

In Rome, do as the Romans do, so at Brandeis, do as the Brandeisians do. Join a local bank and make it easy on yourself to get your Federal Work-Study funds or refund check fast. Bank of America, Citizens Bank and Sovereign Bank ATM's are located on campus in Gosman Sports Complex, Shapiro Campus Center and Usdan Student Center, respectively.

You probably don't know that Brandeis has a Classifieds section for students, faculty and staff. If you are looking to buy or sell your random trinkets, used books, etc. then you must check out what your fellow classmates have advertised. This is also a great place to search for off-campus summer housing and more.

Lost and Found- did you get distracted in class and leave behind your keys? ID card? IPod? Well, hopefully a good samaritan turned it in to Public Safety or the Shapiro Campus Center. If you left items behind at the Office of Student Financial and Academic Services then please come back to claim them. We have a lost and found drawer specifically for those days when students haven't recovered from their late night study sess.

Whether it comes in the form of new essentials for dorm room living, a Zipcar membership, or a new bank account, Savvy Student is there to guide you through your first steps at Brandeis and beyond. Check back throughout your time at Brandeis, you just might learn a thing or two.

~Savvy Student

Need Extra Cash for Books? Try Student Employment...

2011-08-10T09:49:00.001-04:00

For those of you who are in serious need of some spending or grocery money (and have some time in your schedule - school comes first!), landing a job may be your best bet. Job searching is time-consuming for everyone, and it can be especially challenging for college students who are busy taking 4 to 5 classes while holding multiple leadership roles in clubs and activities. Savvy Student is here to help.

The perfect place to start is our Student Employment website, where you can read up on employment eligibility while locating all of the necessary forms required to begin working. You may also research job opportunities both on and off-campus.

Federal Work-Study

Federal Work-Study (FWS) is a grant funded work program. Students are paid by Brandeis, however, the wages are actually a combination of both university and federal funds. FWS is awarded to eligible domestic undergraduate students as part of their financial aid award. FWS students have hiring priority for most on campus jobs for the first month into the semester, and may work either on-campus or at an approved off-campus community service agency. However, FWS does not guarantee job placement - you still have to land the position based on your own merit (impression, resume, and interview).

University Employment

University Employment is a work program funded entirely by the university and is awarded to eligible international undergraduate students as part of their financial aid award. Students may work on-campus only.

Students who receive University Employment are also given priority through the first month of the semester. However, University Employment does not guarantee job placement - again, you have to earn the position on your own.

More information and frequently asked questions can be found here.

And here is a list of on-campus jobs that are currently being offered.

If you have questions, you can always contact Student Employment in the Office of Student Financial Services. Good luck and happy job-hunting!

Savvy Student

The Fall Bills Are Out...Now What?

2011-07-19T15:28:00.013-04:00

As the due date approaches for the fall 2011 bill you must be thinking, panicking or planning out how you are going to cover the semester balance. Take some deep breaths because Savvy Student has the 411 on ways to pay your bill. And, as diverse as our student population is, so are our payment options- made with you in mind.

1. Check or money order You have the option of mailing a check or money order. The mailing address for payments is

Brandeis University

P.O. BOX 4055

Boston, MA 02211-2003

2. Credit Card and electronic withdrawal from US checking or savings accounts Credit card and electronic payments can be made online at afford.com or through your sage account by selecting the “Account Inquiry” link in the Finances section . Next, select the “activity” link. The “Total Balance for all Terms” is the amount due. Credit cards accepted are Discover, MasterCard and American Express (fees do apply for credit card payments and Visa is NOT accepted) No fees apply to the direct withdrawal from checking/savings accounts.

3. Wire Transfer There is a new payment option for students paying by wire. We've contracted with Travelex, a global payments company. The new service, PAY24-7, will allow students to pay by wire at a reduced corporate exchange rate rather than the retail rate banks usually charge – a potential savings of 3% to 6%. We have updated the instructions on our bills and our website to reflect this new service. The link to the Brandeis Travelex PAY24-7 site can be found here. If you are having any difficulties submitting a wire transfer, please contact our office at 781-736-3700 or sfs@brandeis.edu

4. Cash, Checks, Money Orders, and Traveler's Checks You can pay with cash, check, money order or a traveler's check in the Office of Student Financial and Academic Services. The office is located on the second floor of Usdan. Cash payments exceeding $9,999 must be reported to the IRS and will require you to submit proof of identity.

5. 5 or 10 Month Payment Plan SFS understands that paying the full balance by the due date can be difficult for some families, which is why they joined with a third party system, Tuition Management System (TMS) to provide families the option of a payment plan. For a small application fee ($70 for both semesters or $50 for one semester), parents and students have the option of paying part of their bill the first of every month. To learn more or sign up for the plan, please contact TMS at 1-888-216-4258 or online.

You can view the complete list of payment options online at brandeis.edu/sfs. As a reminder the bill is due August 12th. Please make payment arrangements to ensure that you are not charged at late fee of $100 or 2% of what is due.

Savvy Student

College Money Myths

2011-06-28T15:54:00.001-04:00

One of the biggest challenges in adjusting to college life is not actually related to academics, but rather personal finance. For many students, it will be their first time working and earning a weekly paycheck, opening a checking or savings account and even building up their credit through student loans or credit cards. And, although this may seem like standard practice, students being introduced to these types of financial responsibilities for the first time can either be oblivious to what it entails or overwhelmed by it.

When it comes to working, students often times do not even know how to properly complete the W-4 Federal tax form, nor do they understand interest rates, APR's or the like. So, where do students turn to, for answers in this tech savvy day and age? The internet. And, with so much information available on personal finance and money management it is hard to sort through what might be fact, fiction or opinion when it comes to your financial well being.

So, as we often pledge to do, we have come across an article from Fox Business on 6 College Money Myths that we think you should read before heading back to school. These tips could prevent you from damaging your credit or that of your parents. The article focuses heavily on credit cards and understanding how to use them responsibly, as well as, the importance of checking your credit report annually. FYI, the article does refer to 9 money myths, but only 6 are posted.

Savvy Student

Samsung, Droid, HTC Let's Talk Cell Phones...

2011-06-22T09:43:00.009-04:00

Are you in the market for a new cell phone? And, not just any regular old cell phone since smart phones are all the rage-are you looking for the latest Android, HTC or Samsung? If so, keep reading...

We have come across two very legitimate websites that can save you more than 50% on your next purchase. These websites will not interfere with your cell phone plan unless you are already receiving a discount. So, if you're coming up for a contract renewal or you just need a new phone you can save more money with these online companies than with your cell phone provider. Just for example, the Samsung Galaxy sells at Verizon Wireless for $99. Through our online suggestions you can purchase the exact same phone for FREE.

Are you intrigued yet?

The websites we have found and had personal experience with are WireFly.com and LetsTalk.com. The deals offered change frequently, but are worth comparing to the price given by your carrier. You should do your research ahead of time to determine which phone you want to purchase and then let the deal come to you.

Just checking today we have found significant savings on the HTC EVO from Sprint. Carrier price is $149, but through LetsTalk.com you pay just $39.99. The HTC Thunderbolt is on sale with Verizon Wireless for $249.99 down from $569.99, but with our online search you can get the same phone for $39.99. These websites serve the same purpose as a mall kiosk or cell phone carrier at BestBuy. You can purchase the phone and renew your service all at once. Again the savings are spectacular, but do your research and definitely check with your carrier first.

~Savvy Student

Budget Friendly Father's Day

2011-06-15T12:42:00.002-04:00

With Father's Day this Sunday it may seem impossible to show your dad how special he is without spending a lot of money. The ads on tv or the radio imply that the best gifts to get for Sunday are either an Ipad or smart phone. This may be the case for some tech savvy father's, however, they each come with a hefty price tag. So, what can you do if you are on a budget and you need last minute gift ideas? Well, stick with Savvy Student because we have the 411.

Our previous post provided information on coupons and how best to use these money saving devices. Well, gift buying is no different. The thought put into the gift is what counts not the price tag, and if you are able to save a few bucks along the way, who care's? Always be sure to check the circulars or the internet for product discounts. You may be able to save a percentage on the item itself or on shipping. Simply type in "(Business Name) Coupon Code" into the search engine to see what pops up.

A father called into the radio station just the other day giving advice to "poor" college students. What he suggested was a gift of time and effort that involved no exchange of money and was often more appreciated than any store bought present. His list of ideas included cleaning and detailing your father's car or completing a task or chore you know he dislikes, but to do it as a surprise, not as a promise of something you "will" do.

If you don't have money to spend on dear old dad, you can still spend time with him and make it special. Schedule a father/son or father/daughter day where it is just the two of you. You can go for a walk, play a game, go fishing or any activity that he enjoys doing. Making memories is priceless and will last a lifetime.

If you find that you do have money to put towards a present for your father just remember that you don't have to break your budget. Most father's would appreciate any gift and would probably rather see you save your money.

We at Savvy Student wish all you father's out there a very Happy Father's Day!

Mastering the Art of Couponing

2011-06-14T11:30:00.004-04:00

Twenty years ago coupons were rarely ever looked at, much less used. They were included with the Sunday paper only to be tossed aside while searching for store flyers. Fast forward to June 2011 where coupons have taken on a brand new identity, changing the once negative stigma surrounding them into a hip way to save money. Beginning as newspaper inserts, then in-home mailers such as ValPak, coupons have finally and most successfully hit the internet, which has become quite popular amongst today's tech-savvy shoppers. Since not all coupons are created equal and "clipping" coupons is a time consuming deterrent, we at Savvy Student have decided to help make you a couponing guru. So, please read on for the best tips and advice to keep you at the top of your game.

In our research, we have come across several websites that discuss couponing and its money saving benefits. Couponing has become so popular that TLC even created a reality tv show on obsessive couponers called Extreme Couponing. Individuals featured on this program save hundreds of dollars at the check out with their coupons and even have the ability to donate certain goods that they purchased too many of. The key for these shoppers is to get organized and get multiples of all coupons. While TLC does not recommend this, it has apparently become common practice to steel coupon inserts from the Sunday paper, which is almost funny being that they were once considered junk mail. Luckily, you don't need to take to dumpster diving 0r coupon theft to save money. Below are some websites that we found useful to help get you the biggest bang for your buck.

According to the personal finance blog, MONEY NING it is possible to save money at the grocery store by getting extra coupons, shopping the grocery circular before your trip and by organizing all of your coupons. If you would like to see MONEY NING's other tips you can view the article in full here.

The Money Beagle says to "Keep it simple." Look online and check the Sunday paper for money saving deals. If you are doing a search online type "Amazon coupon code" or "promo code" in the search engine and see what comes up.

About.Com/Frugal Living has a beginners guide to couponing which offers great tips on locating coupons, store policies on coupons and how to get organized with your clippings.

Vastly different from the other websites listed we have come across thekrazycouponlady.com. This website offers a snapshot of the best product deals, as well as free printable coupons and a "Brag Lounge," amongst other fun couponing items.

As you take on this new challenge, be leery of spam websites. We found that several coupons were blocked by random surveys and subscriptions. But, if you do your due diligence you should be on the fast track to savings.

If there are other coupon sites that you have used and like, such as Retailmenot.com, please let us know and we will post them.

~Savvy Student

Out With The Old and In With The Money

2011-06-03T13:53:00.005-04:00

If you are searching for a way to earn a few extra dollars while clearing out some space in your basement or garage, we have your answer...a yard sale! And, if you are a boarder-line hoarder, this may also pave the way to recovery.

Either way, Savvy Student has a few tips via Today Money to help make your next sale a profitable one.

Advertising and organizing are among the top suggestions offered by experts. Although this may seem like common sense, it's all in the details that people tend to leave out. Make sure to use bright, easy to read signs that are placed throughout your neighborhood. As we are in a technology led world, don't forget to advertise online through sites such as Craigslist. Organize as you pick through items in your house to be sold and add post-it notes to help answer shoppers questions such as "dishwasher and microwave safe".

Presentation is also important. Set up areas with like items and leave walking room for customers. Make sure to clear away cobwebs and clean off any dusty goods, as well. And, to further entice shoppers mow the lawn and clean up your flower beds.

For more hot tips on summer yard sales you can view the article in-full here.

How to Lower High Cost Utility Bills

2011-06-01T11:15:00.001-04:00

For those of you who have taken the summer to venture off-campus and away from home you may find the independence exciting. However, once you settle in the responsibilities can be a little overwhelming. Aside from rent there are always going to be variable expenses such as food and transportation. If you are a regular to Savvy Student, then you have hopefully learned how to manage a budget and monitor your spending habits, so those types of expenses should already be covered. Yet, there are some bills that are hard to plan for especially if you have never had to pay for them before, i.e. your utility bills. And, different seasons can impact the amount of your bill depending on usage. But, do not fret! Savvy Student knows a few simple steps on how to decrease those high summer (and all year round) utility bills.

WATER
1. Check to make sure none of the faucets in your household are leaking/dripping. A slow dripping faucet can accumulate over two gallons per hour!
2. Take shorter showers. I know it sounds obvious, but did you know that a shower uses approximately 6-10 gallons of water per minute? Think of how much money you could save if you shaved a few minutes off of your shower.
3. Contact your utility company to see if they offer reduced rates at certain times of the day and either timer-delay your washer/dishwasher or wait until that time to do your loads.
4. Recycle your water from fish tanks and use it to water your plants. Fish emulsion is a good and inexpensive fertilizer. It is high in nitrogen and phosphorous- just think that you will save on fertilizer AND water.

GAS
5. Close off the rooms that aren’t in use in your home. This will help keep the rooms you do use warmer or colder.
6.Invest in a water heater timer if you have an electric water heater. By turning the heat off during the time it is not in use you will save money on your bill without even making a sacrifice.
7. Turn your thermostat down just three degrees. By doing so you will save approximately three percent on your heating bills.

ELECTRICITY
8. When purchasing new appliances it's best to consider energy efficient models. You may have to shell out a little more money for the switch, but you can save hundreds of dollars a year, making it worth the investment.
9. Get into the habit of turning off ALL lights and appliances that are not currently in use . You'll be surprised at how quickly the energy savings will add up.
10. The dryer will use less energy if you dry several loads of clothing, one after another because the dryer will already be hot. What an easy way to save money and get your laundry done faster!
11. You can call your utility company to find out if they have off-peak hours and when they are. Many companies charge less for your electricity at night and more during the day. By doing your laundry and dishes during off-peak hours you could easily save money off of your utility bill.
12. Its best to use low-wattage light bulbs or energy efficient fluorescent lighting. Compact fluorescent typically last ten times longer and they use 75% less electricity.

With time, these simple acts will prove beneficial--financially and environmentally. So, stop spending 40 minutes in the shower and save enough $$ to pay for that parking permit next semester :) .

Smart Living,
Savvy Student

Helpful Tips on Repaying your Loans

2011-05-24T11:12:00.000-04:00

Before it's time to repay your student loans, it's essential that you understand the options available to you. Savvy Student wants to inform you that a little planning and knowledge now, can go a long way toward making your student loan repayment easier and less stressful.

Step 1: Know Your Lender

This may seem very basic, but many students have loans from different sources. For a detailed view of your financial aid history check out NetPartner on Sage or stop by our office, if you are unsure of your loans. Once that is complete figure out ways in which you can repay your loans. Can you make payments online or set up automatic bill pay? What repayment plans are available?

Step 2: Consider Consolidation

According to Student Aid on the Web, a Direct Consolidation Loan allows a borrower to consolidate (combine) multiple federal student loans into one loan. The result is a single monthly payment instead of multiple monthly payments. However, you want to keep in mind that by consolidating you're extending your repayment term, which may lower your monthly obligation, but could mean paying more interest over time. However, since student loans have no prepayment penalty, you could always make additional payments when you are able to do so.

Step 3: Repayment Options

Most loans will require minimum monthly payments, but sometimes you may be able to afford to pay more each month. If you find yourself with a little extra cash, you should try to make a larger than usual payment to at least one of your loans. Pick the loan with the highest interest rate and largest principle, this way you might prevent yourself from building up a little more of that evil interest. Keep in mind that loan companies will usually consider larger-than-usual monthly payments as just that, and not as an advance payment for the next month. Therefore, you will still probably owe the minimum monthly payment for the next month, and you should plan for that. If you get extra cash this month, but will likely have a deficit next month, save today's cash for next month's payment.

It may be helpful to use a budget spreadsheet. This way, you would be able to plan for all of your expenses and income, and be able to save in advance for any foreseeable loss of income or foreseeable increases in expenditures. A few excellent budget spreadsheets are available here, including spreadsheet specifically for debt-reduction. Don't forget to include your monthly payments towards your loans!

For any and all loan repayment advice you may always stop by our office to speak with Steven Doona, the Assistant Director of Student Loans.

Best of luck to you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Savvy Student

The Power of Ten

2011-05-19T11:19:00.000-04:00

As a college student you have hopefully become a master at stretching the 'ole dollar, so if given $10 how long could you make it last? What does $10 even get you when the economy is weak and gasoline is so expensive? If you suddenly found $10 on the street or in a coat pocket you would be ecstatic right? So, to begin with $10 can buy a bit of happiness- yes?

Savvy Student has provided a link to Wikipedia here, so that you can read up on the $10 bill and become acquainted with it's interesting history.

For instance, did you know that the average life of a $10 bill in circulation is 18 months before it needs to be replaced from wear and tear? Or, that Alexandra Hamilton, U.S. Secretary of the Treasury is only one of two non-presidents to be featured on currently issued U.S. bills. The other one is Benjamin Franklin whose face appears on the $100 bill.

Portraits on the $10 bill changed multiple times since it was first issued in 1861. Those having been featured on the bill include President Lincoln, Andrew Jackson and Lewis and Clarke, just to name a few.

In 1869 the $10 bill became known as the "jackass note" because it featured an eagle that when turned upside down looked like a donkey. This same note also included a representation of Pocahontas being presented to the Royal Court of England.

So, now that you know all about the $10 bill (and more) what can $10 get you these days? Leave it to Savvy Student to find out...

Spend a rainy day at the MFA. Bus fare from Brandeis to the MFA is around $9.50 and entry to the MFA is free.

According to BestTravelDeals.net there are 10 things to do, under $10 in Boston including a visit to Jamaica Pond, Coit Observatory or taking in a movie at the Coolidge Corner Theater.

Take the bus or train into Cambridge and walk around Harvard Square or visit Boston and walk the Freedom trail- all under $10.

Visit the Brandeis bookstore and you will find several branded items for under $10. Brandeis memorabilia runs the gamut from coffee mugs to key chains and pennants to socks.

So, if you find yourself short on cash, but can scrape together $10 think of all the fun things you can do.

Have a Savvy Summer!

To Thee I Owe For This Degree They Bestow

2011-05-16T11:18:00.005-04:00

If you are graduating college this year Congratulations! And, oh yes don't be alarmed at the loan debt you have accrued, you are not alone.

(insert sounds of tires screeching to a halt or as I prefer to visualize the old Flintstone's Cartoon with Fred Flintstone bringing his car to an abrupt stop)

Sorry to bring you down, but unfortunately the reality is that the Class of 2011 will be graduating with an average of $22,900 in loan debt. According to YAHOO! Finance in reference to an article from the Wall Street Journal, this year's graduates will be the most indebted ever. There is an 8% increase this year compared to 2010 and a 47% hike (in inflation adjusted terms) from more than a decade ago.

According to the same article, the good news is that the investment is worth it (Yes! There is a silver lining). Furthering your education is a much better reason to borrow money rather than building up debt for cars or expensive homes. Statistics also show that as of 2009, the annual pre-tax income of households headed by people with at least a college degree exceeded that of less-educated households by 101%, up from 91% in 2006. As of April, the unemployment rate among college graduates stood at 4.5%, compared to 9.7% for those with only a high-school diploma and 14.6% for those who never finished high school.

View the YAHOO! Finance/ WSJ article in-full here.

And, stay tuned to Savvy Student because we will have some suggestions on minimizing your loan debt and tips for paying back all those lovely loans.

~Savvy Student

Financial Nirvana

2011-05-10T10:33:00.001-04:00

You may not be able to tell by today's weather, but summer is just around the corner, and as with any new season, new expenses are certain to follow. So, how does one stay financially healthy amongst all new obligations and responsibilities? The quick answer is to begin reading or better yet, continue reading our blog!!!

But, in all seriousness you should get to know your spending habits- do you tend to buy things you need or want? Also, do you shop and make purchases when you are in a certain mood?

Below are just a few things we want you to know, think about, and ask yourself as you build your financial life:

1.) If you had all of the money in the world, what would you do? How would you spend your money? Would you buy experiences or things? At the end of your life, many of the things you purchased may not withstand the test of time, but by contrast, all the experiences you have will stay with you forever. The trips to Europe with your friends, the vacations with your family, and the walks on the beach with your significant other – you’ll come to understand that using money to buy experiences may just be what you really value money for. At the end of the day, it is much easier to make decisions about money when the choices you make are aligned with your values.

2.) All financially successful people have some type of budget and stick to it. We understand that some people are frightened by the word! “Budget” means you have to cut back and can’t really spend money on the things that make you happy. Right? Wrong! If you create a realistic budget for yourself you'll begin to see that by cutting back in certain areas, you will have found money to put aside for savings and yet, still have money left for entertainment. Sounds great, doesn't it? Its all in the way you look at things--"Tomato, Tomatoe".

3.) Are you a natural entrepreneur, or do you like the stability of working for someone else? We understand that it will be hard to start a lemonade stand this summer at the age of 19, but you are all Brandeis students and thus capable of starting a great summer job such as your own landscaping company. As an entrepreneur, you are the key decision maker. How does that feel to you? If you prefer to be the employee, you have more job security and a steady paycheck. It’s ok to be either an employee or an entrepreneur. Make a conscious choice and do what feels right.

4.) What is it that you really like to do? If you have no idea, then try new things this summer (but make sure to stick to your budget). It never hurts to try. By knowing what you enjoy doing, you will be able to figure out where you spend your money the most. This will help in budgeting for the month--you can now create an amount for that particular habit for the month and stick to it, instead of spending an unknown amount of money.

5.) What have you learned from your parents about managing your money?
What did they teach you and why? Did they even talk to you about money? Or was it a taboo subject? Are you now faced with the fact that you have to get some financial education on your own? How are you going to do it? This is where Savvy Student comes in with all our useful information. Visit our website weekly for exciting news on how to manage your money, eat and shop for less and many more budgeting tips.

Now that you have answered all 5 questions and know your financial self, it is time to put what you've learned to the test. Create a budget and see how easy it is to stick to it! Now that's financial nirvana.

Sweet Sailing,
Savvy Student

Make your Mother Proud, Remember Her This Sunday and Do it on a Budget!

2011-05-05T10:26:00.003-04:00

Mother's Day and Father's Day, like any holiday can become very commercialized. But for an affordable, more personalized gift get back to basics. And, since we are Savvy Student we are more than happy to show you how.

Be creative and helpful!

With finals around the corner you may be limited on time, but you can quickly and easily create a coupon book for your rockstar parent. The coupons could offer help with cooking, cleaning, yard work or even babysitting for younger siblings. This is a gift that any parent would enjoy and has $0 out of pocket cost to you.

Go Green!

Since April showers are bringing May flowers plant some seeds to create a container or herb garden. If you start now you should begin to see the "fruits" of your labor in time to gift it away. Plus, seeds, potting soil and a container should cost under $10.

Support Brandeis!

Buy merchandise from any one of the campus clubs or organizations, for example Starving Artists, a Brandeis A Cappella group released their new CD for just $10.

Be Organic!

Make a special meal with all natural, healthy ingredients to show you care about your parent and their health. You can also find recipes for low-fat or flourless cake if you prefer to do dessert instead.

There are many ways to show your parents that you care about them without having to spend a lot of money. I am certain they would appreciate any effort on your end and even more that you were being conscious of your finances. Save the big ticket items for when you are out of school and can more readily afford it! For now, just stick to the basics!

For all the lovely mothers and mother's to be...

Savvy Student!

Groupon and Coupons

2011-05-02T12:37:00.002-04:00

If you are not one of those frequent online shoppers you might not be familiar with the many ways you can save even more when ordering on the Internet. No worries!

Here are some tips:

1. If you are planning to make a purchase online, before officially placing your order, check Google for any discounts or coupon codes available for that particular web-site. Most of the time you get lucky , but every once in a while you get spammed. A good site with reliable coupon codes is RetailMeNot.com.

2. Make friends with Groupon - a web-site that offers day-to-day deals based on your geographic location. Planning on doing something fun with your friends before the semester ends? Good chance is you will find the perfect opportunity through Groupon: sushi making classes, sailing, or just half-priced dinners at a restaurant in Waltham - they got it all!

3. For more coupon and online deal web-sites read the Savvy Student Post from September 2009 (Yes, Savvy Student was already up and running back then!).

We have also posted other articles on websites such as SlickDeals.com, so check out our blog for other money saving tips and ideas. If you have a website we haven't mentioned let us know and we will post it.

-Savvy Student

What do the Royal Wedding and Financial Aid Renewal Application have in common?

2011-04-27T09:00:00.002-04:00

April 29th is an important day for two reasons: it is the deadline for the renewal financial aid application for Brandeis and the day of the Royal Wedding of William and Kate!

Assuming you already completed the CSS, the FAFSA and sent in your tax returns to IDOC, you can shift your focus to the Royal Ceremony! We at Savvy Student decided to take a peak on the estimated budget for the Wedding. Here is what we found out:

- The total estimated cost of the Royal Wedding: $32M
- The total estimated cost of the Chelsey Clinton Wedding: $3.3M
- The total estimated cost of an average US Wedding: $27, 000

- The Royal Wedding Cake: $80, 000 (4 semesters of Brandeis tuition and $134 per slice!)
- An average wedding cake: $ 540 and that is only $ 4 per slice (Cake slice in Upper Usdan $2.99)

- The Royal Wedding Bridal Dress: $ 434, 000
- An average wedding dress: $ 1, 099

So, who is really going to pay for this?

According to the official Royal Media briefing document: "The Royal Family, with a private contribution from the Middleton Family, will pay for all those aspects of the day that constitute the wedding (e.g. the Abbey service, flowers, dresses, carriage procession, reception and dinner). The Government and other bodies will pay for costs that are consequential to the wedding."

The flowers, the dress, the reception, then, will technically be financed by the families of the bride and the groom. However, the security for the big day, crowd control, clearing of the streets, etc. will be paid by British tax revenues.

The engagement ring is perhaps the only technically free (as it is inherited) part of the ceremony along with Kate's gorgeous smile, of course.

You can follow the Royal Wedding Live (for free) on the Royal YouTube Channel this Friday.
And if the wedding fever hits you, you can estimate the cost of weddings in your state here.

Happily-ever-after,
Savvy Student

References:

http://www.officialroyalwedding2011.org/
http://thebudgetsavvybride.com/2011/04/22/the-royal-wedding-budget-vs-the-average-american-wedding-budget/
http://bltwy.msnbc.msn.com/politics/the-cost-of-kate-and-williams-royal-wedding-9495.gallery

Last Minute Tax Help

2011-04-13T10:00:00.000-04:00

As the tax deadline approaches (MONDAY, APRIL 18, 2011) and you feel the beads of sweat beginning to form just take a breath and try to relax. Although we, both SFS and Savvy Student are prohibited from providing tax advice, we can still give you tips on where to go for help. First and foremost your online best friend should be IRS.gov. Make sure to submit your materials on time, otherwise, if you owe money you risk facing fees.

Second and arguably as important- Make Copies! A good rule of thumb is to keep copies of your personal return on file for three to seven years. Copies are useful when you need to reference your returns for such things as the financial aid application process. Also, The IRS has three years from the date you file to audit your return, so it will be nice to have a record of your return if any bumps arise.

Our third tip is to make sure your return is complete - check the IRS website at http://www.irs.gov/index.html to see what schedules and forms may be helpful or required for your return. These may include various versions of the 1040, a business or self-employment schedule, attachments, and W-2's. You can also answer many of your other questions using the sources on this page, and the student specific section can be found here: http://www.irs.gov/individuals/students/index.html.

Finally, you should also consider taking a trip to Bentley University in Waltham. Bentley students are offering free tax help to Waltham residents, and Brandeis students count! You can find more information in our Monday March 7, 2011 post and here.

Of course, if you need them, there are commercial tax-help products and services - but try the above first!

As always, let us know if you have any other information, tips, questions, or leads on Savvy services!

Sincerely,

Savvy-Student

The Financial Aid Application Process

2011-04-11T12:56:00.003-04:00

For those of you who find taxes and the financial aid application process daunting (don't be ashamed, many do!), read on to clear the fog and solve the financial aid puzzle!

To begin- the Brandeis deadline for returning students to apply for financial aid is FRIDAY APRIL 29, 2011! Don't try to comprehend and submit everything last minute - you will be late and your financial aid could be negatively impacted.

Second - Demonstrated Financial Need:

A student's eligibility for financial aid is based upon four main criteria which include Income, Assets, Number of People in the Household, and Number of Siblings Attending College.

Students seeking financial assistance are asked to file the CSS Profile, the FAFSA and submit signed copies of all 2010 Federal tax returns. This information will allow our Assistant Directors to calculate demonstrated financial need. Number of people in the household include the head of the household and legal dependents - basically, parents and the number of children still legally dependent under them. Number of Siblings Attending College may not necessarily include all siblings of the student, but pertains to those in the household in an undergraduate program.

Finally - How to Apply (as Brandeis Students) for Financial Aid:

Returning (domestic) students who are applying for financial aid for the first time, or students who are asking to be considered for need-based financial aid must submit the following:

1. CSS Profile through the College Board

Sign-in and complete at profileonline.collegeboard.com
Save the IDOC instructions you receive upon submitting the profile
Non-custodial CSS Profile is required if biological parents are separated, divorced, etc (ncprofile.collegeboard.com)

2. The FAFSA

Required if you wish to be considered for Federal aid, such as the Stafford loans

3. Your 2010 Federal Tax Return

Students usually use the 1040 or 1040EZ
Include just the first page of the EZ or first two pages of the standard 1040
Must be signed
Must be sent to IDOC, not our office
If you do not file, submit a Non-Filer's Statement

4. Your Parent's 2010 Federal Tax Return

The individual 1040's from both biological parents or the jointly-filed 1040
Business, S-corp, Partnership, etc Return (if filed with the Federal government)
All schedules and W-2's
Must be signed
Must be sent to IDOC, not our office

We may also require the following:
1. Verification Worksheet - students may be randomly selected by the FAFSA for verification; available on our website

Again, the renewal aid deadline is Friday APRIL 29th. Our office must receive your completed application by this date, so please allow time for completing, compiling, and submitting your forms to IDOC via "snail" mail.

Most importantly, be sure to CHECK YOUR MAIL - at school, at home, and online. Our office sends Missing Information Letters and emails to remind you of deadlines and documents needed in order to complete your financial aid application. Please be sure to read these carefully and in a timely fashion. As always, feel free to contact our office with any questions at sfs@brandeis.edu.

Yours truly,

Savvy Student

Ways to Conserve Energy and Save Money

2011-04-05T10:00:00.000-04:00

With fuel prices expected to spike, incorporating simple energy conservation measures into your daily routine makes more sense than ever. Radical steps aren't necessary; when it comes to conservation, a little bit goes a long way.

At Home:

When replacing appliances, look for the Energy Star label. Although these appliances cost a bit more, they use less energy.

Compact fluorescent bulbs last more than six times longer than regular light bulbs, and can save you about $601 a year.

Many plugged in gadgets, including TVs, DVD players, and Dustbusters, use energy even when they are turned off, and can account for five percent of your energy bill. No one is suggesting that you unplug everything before leaving for work every morning, but yanking a few plugs before going on vacation or away for an extended amount of time might not be a bad idea.

Clean naturally. You can go green with natural cleaning products that won't harm the environment. To make furniture polish, mix two parts cooking oil with one part lemon, or use baking soda to scour pans. Cleaning a car, boat or bike this summer? Be sure to use a soap that is environmentally safe if the run off is going into the ground or water and use a hose with an automatic shutoff nozzle.

Avoid saturating your lawn and garden with chemicals that seep into the groundwater. Create natural fertilizer with compost. Fruit and vegetable peelings, coffee grounds, nutshells, dead flowers, all add beneficial nutrients to the soil.

Showers use less water than baths, meaning shorter showers can save lots of water and lots of cash.

Transportation:

Educate yourself on ways to commute, check with your local community transportation representatives to see if your area offers buses, trains or even carpool listings. Brandeis students can check the public safety website for shuttle times here.

According to the Consumer Federation of America, you can improve your mileage by more than 15 percent a year by cleaning your air filter, checking alignment, pumping up tires, and keeping to the speed limit.

Avoid accelerating or braking unnecessarily quickly to save gas.

Additionally, check your gas cap. Missing or broken caps allow gas to evaporate. About 150 million gallons of gasoline evaporate every year.

Unloading 100 pounds of gear from your trunk can save four cents a gallon!

You'll also reduce fuel consumption if you don't idle your car.There are many ways to be green. All you have to do is a little research and choose a few that are right for you.

Stay Green--literally,
Savvy Student

Going Cultural for Less

2011-03-30T10:26:00.000-04:00

Spring is a great time to explore Boston's cultural scene! And, Savvy Student wants to help get you there on a budget.

We hope you have had time to participate in most if not all of the events featured here at Brandeis, but as the weather warms up you might want to look into what Boston has to offer. Just hop onto the free Brandeis Cambridge/Boston shuttle and explore!

Here are some tips and facts for you:

MFA is free for Brandeis students with Brandeis ID

If you sign-up for the Boston Cultural Arts Club mailing list and receive updates on free and discounted events all year! (Boston Center for the Arts is one the frequent venues)
Look for discounts on BosTix or stop by one of their box offices in Faneuil Hall or Copley Square.
Many Broadway shows have national tours that frequently come through Boston area! Stay tuned!
Check-out such popular venues as The Paradise Rock Club and The House of Blues for wonderful concerts
Keep updated with recent Boston events here. The website keeps readers posted on events such as musicals, lectures, and parties
Another fun idea is to go to a sports game. Check out ticket prices for the Red Sox, the Bruins, and the Celtics.
Don't forget about the Aquarium or Science Center. You can visit with the penguins or take in an IMAX movie.

Enjoy the weather and Happy Spring!

Savvy Student

Off-Campus Housing

2011-03-25T11:29:00.000-04:00

We know many of you are now either crossing your fingers on the wait-list or trying your luck in search of an off-campus apartment. Savvy-student is here to help with the pros and cons to off-campus housing, tips for finding an apartment, as well as, advice for staying on-budget .

The obvious pros for on-campus housing are that it is convenient. There is no real commute time and nothing to worry about in terms of making rent or paying for utilities since it is all included with your semester bill.

However, that being said, for those of you looking to live off-campus or with a high lottery number you may need to search for alternative housing options with or without roommates.

Off-Campus: Pros and Cons

There are plenty of pros to living off-campus. To begin with, your housing choices are no longer limited by lottery numbers, meaning you can look at a diverse set of living arrangements (as long as they fit in your budget!). Further more, students living off campus can buy and prepare most of their own food-typically much cheaper than the Brandeis meal plan. Finally, a place off campus can be considered training wheels for future endeavors. It is a great time to learn how to budget and manage finances in a real world setting, as you will most likely have to search for an apartment, pay for utilities and shop for furniture.

It is also important to mention that your eligibility for financial aid will not change should you live off campus, as long as you're not living with your parents. If you're financial aid exceeds your semester charges on Sage then you are entitled to a refund check. Simply complete our Credit Release Form either online or in our office. However, please be aware that per Federal regulation refund checks issued for students with an account credit will be processed beginning 10 days before the start of classes, so be sure to plan your housing payments accordingly.

Living off campus does entail some difficulties too. First among them is transportation. Students with cars will face the increased costs of gas and maintenance. Those without cars will have to plan around shuttle schedules or the increased time of walking or biking to campus. Make sure you factor these changes into your decision to live off campus.

Moreover, off-campus housing requires greater independence and budgeting on behalf of students. Depending on where you choose to live, off-campus housing can be more or less expensive than on-campus. Nonetheless, students off-campus must be responsible enough to pay rent on time, keep utility bills in check, and still have enough money left over for food and transportation.

Finding a Living Space

For students who choose to make the leap off-campus, finding a place to live can often be the most difficult step. Begin by asking your friends! Often times you may be surprised to find that a friend of a friend is looking for a roommate or will be leaving his or her apartment in the fall. Personal connections can open doors (literally)!

There are several resources at your fingertips to help you in your apartment search. You may first consider looking at classifieds on my.brandeis.edu. These listings are posted by Brandeis students, meaning they can connect you with housing that is student-friendly and near campus.

Check craigslist.com or local newspapers. These listings aren't specifically directed towards Brandeis students, but can give you many leads for off-campus living spaces. No matter how daunting the apartment search appears, your hard work will certainly pay off when you have a space all your own!

Budgeting Off-Campus

Savvy Student has tips for making sure you can live successfully off campus while still living within your means.

It can be very helpful to set a strict budget accounting for all your daily expenses. If you do live off campus you may be required to purchase renter's insurance, and if you decide to get pets be aware that there are additional expenses included with your furry friends. Remember to set aside money for entertainment, such as dinner with friends and be sure to set aside money for your savings!

Regarding food expenses, consider the following tips:

Further, consider becoming a member of a warehouse store, such as Sam's Club or Costco. If you're living with roommates, buying food in bulk can save lots of money in the long run.

Plan your grocery lists before you're at the store!

Cut coupons and remember to actually use them!

Keep in mind whether the food you're purchasing is perishable. Produce isn't worth a penny if it rots before you can eat it!

To avoid paying on-campus food prices, remember to bring food with you to campus.

Savvy Student and the Office of Student Financial Services are always here to guide you through these processes, so don't hesitate to contact our office (in person or via email, facebook, or blog) if you have any questions!

Savvy Student

Money Mistakes and Drugstore Mark-Ups

2011-03-21T12:44:00.006-04:00

Even though it's the start of spring it doesn't feel or look like it outside. So much for stating the obvious right? If you, like us, wish to avoid going outside then please read on because we have a couple of good distractions for you...

In our daily hunt for money tips we have come across two good articles for you.

According to "Today Money", children learn about money habits and spending from their parents, and in most cases they are learning all the wrong lessons. Personal finance expert, David Bach believes the number one mistake parents make is not saying "no", even when it means spending beyond their set budget or financial means. The lesson in this behavior is that savings is not important, but instant gratification is and budgets are "out" while spending beyond your means is "in", which all lead to an unhealthy financial portfolio. To see other financial mistakes people make read the complete article here.

Today Money also featured an article on mark-ups at the drugstore. Experts indicate that if you are walking into a pharmacy to purchase over the counter medicine or hair accessories, etc you may be paying double or even triple the wholesale cost. Check out the article here to see a list of items to watch out for.

And, for what it's worth Happy Spring!!!

Savvy Student

St. Patrick's Day Fun!

2011-03-17T11:13:00.010-04:00

Erin go Braugh!

In the spirit of St. Patrick's Day we would like to share a few "green" tips with you because in Boston there is no better place to celebrate. With plenty of free events to check out this weekend. Some retailers may even have special coupons and deals, so get with the luck O' the Irish and start saving $$$.

Since we are facing a storm free weekend (woohoo), why not go outside and check out the Boston St. Patrick's Day Parade? It will be on Sunday at 1:00 - more info is available here along with other cultural events: http://gonewengland.about.com/cs/bostonattractions/a/aastpatboston.htm

Why not go see Boston's very own Irish band - The Dropkick Murphys. They are playing this weekend at the House of Blues.

If you want to celebrate on the more traditional side, try making corned beef and cabbage or Irish Soda Bread referred to as Bannock. In one word- YUM! Find recipes online such as allrecipes.com.

May the luck of the Irish be with you all day!

Happy St. Paddy's Day,

Savvy Student

Websites Every College Student Should Know

2011-03-15T15:21:00.000-04:00

Whether you're an athlete or bookworm, avid gamer or adventurer this website was designed for you. Being in college inevitably means you are budget conscious and do not have the freedom to just spend money, and to actually snag a great deal on a purchase feels really good, kind of like you just won the lottery.

So, if you like to bargain hunt in sort of a 'thrill of the kill" way, check out the following post that was recently suggested to Savvy Student- 100 Niche Deal Sites Every College Student Should Know.

This site is full of links to great deals, so if you're looking to make a purchase of any kind soon, take a look and see what's out there! The Links are organized into subsections and there appears to be everything from dining to shopping to weekend fun.

-Savvy Student

Budgeting When Abroad

2011-03-10T10:59:00.002-05:00

Hey you there, yes you- the one seeking new adventures!

This post is for you, those who choose to study abroad next summer, fall or spring, anxious and nervous as there are so many things to complete before taking off for your voyage!

1. Complete the Study Abroad Work Sheet and meet with your financial aid counselor

Do scholarships and financial aid carry over?

Most scholarships do (Except: Malkin Scholarship, Slifka Scholarship, Seeds of Peace Scholarship, Full Wien Scholarship). No matter what the cost of your program is, you will be responsible for paying Brandeis tuition and an off-campus fee as well as the monthly insurance. You will be charged by your program for room and board.

If your program costs are lower than Brandeis ones, you can expect your need-based aid to be adjusted accordingly.

How do I reapply for financial aid?

The year prior to the one you are planning on spending abroad you will have to complete your financial aid application by the priority filing deadline of April 16th.

You will have to submit the CSS Profile, the FAFSA and the tax return documentation.

It is recommended that you set up an appointment with your financial aid counselor to discuss how your aid is likely to be affected by studying abroad.

You can do so by contacting Student Financial Services at 781 736 3700.

How can I receive the credit from my Sage account when abroad?

Students whose aid exceeds their charges (i.e.Brandeis tuition, the Study Abroad fee, the CISI Insurance fee (if applicable) and any previous balance on the Brandeis student account) can obtain a refund to assist with expenses abroad such as room and board, flights, visas, etc. It is the student's responsibility to request refunds from the Office of Student Financial Services. Students should complete a Credit Release Form before they leave the country and specify on this form where they would like their refund sent (e.g. student, parent(s), institution). The Credit Release Form can be downloaded here. For students abroad all year, this should be done each term. Please note that refunds will not be processed until 10 days before the start of Brandeis classes, regardless of the starting date of the program the student will attend.

2. Currency Exchange 101

What to bring debit card/ credit card/ traveler's checks or cash?

Much of the information regarding cash and banking abroad differs depending on where you'll be studying. Your orientation abroad will likely cover some of this information, but it is important to do your research before you go abroad to make sure everything is in order.

First, ask your U.S. bank whether your ATM card will operate abroad. If not, many students open a local account abroad. You can ask your study abroad program/school about your local banking options.

Travelers checks can serve as a secure alternative to carrying cash or cards. Visa, American Express, and most American banks offer travelers checks in various currencies and amounts.

Because of high fees and interest rates, credit cards should be reserved for emergency expenses. Further, credit cards are not accepted as often abroad, especially in developing economies.

Finally, watching currency exchange rates will help you gauge how far a dollar will stretch abroad. You can check the current exchange rates at XE.com. Foreign prices can be deceiving; one US Dollar is currently worth 45 Indian Rupees!

3. How to plan? What to plan for?

Use the Brandeis Study Abroad web-site as a resource! It has many relevant links for information from cultural transitioning to adjusting to study-abroad billing.

A semester abroad can be an exciting opportunity, but it can also get overwhelming with too many things to keep in mind. Savvy Student suggests that you create a time lien for yourself to stay on top of the process.

It may look like this (if you are going abroad in the spring of 2012):

March 2011 Complete Study Abroad Work Sheet
Schedule an appointment with your Financial Aid Counselor to discuss next year's aid
Receive approval to go from Brandeis Study Abroad Office
April 2011 FAFSA (CSS and tax forms) due April 29th
May 2011 Receive your financial award 2011-12 from Brandeis
Summer 2011 Research the country you are going to! Lonely Planet Videos/Student Blogs/Travel Guides!
Fall 2011 Complete the specific application for the study abroad program you chose to apply for
Make sure you do not have an outstanding balance for Fall 2011 and you are expecting the Brandeis bill for the spring 2012 in November
Spring 2012 Go!

4. Tips for Around the World Budgeting

Keep your Study Abroad Work Sheet when you're abroad and do you best not to deviate from your budget.
Depending on the country, haggling might be acceptable. It may be helpful to watch others negotiate before you jump right in, but a little bargaining could save you some serious money!
Ask locals where to find cheap fun. Typically, locals have a better idea about which venues get the most bang for your buck. Ask around-you're sure to find something interesting!
On that note, avoid tourist traps! Eat like locals. Sometimes venturing off the beaten path and asking other students for tips on good food can pay off!
Check out student discounts. Many countries offer discounts on museums, movies, shows, and concerts for students.
Using free communication software like Skype can cut down on the cost of phone cards and international calls.
Finally, carry only small amounts of cash so you can be sure you won't spend more than you can afford.

Happy Trails,

Savvy Student

Free Tax Help

2011-03-07T11:44:00.005-05:00

Who doesn't like the word "Free" and when it comes to tax preparation don't you want to be certain that your taxes have been filed correctly?

Here at Brandeis we do not have the resources to provide students with tax preparation assistance, however, our neighbors to the North, Bentley University do and they are in their 13th consecutive year offering such services. Through the IRS-sponsored Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, both Bentley undergraduate and graduate accounting students give their time and expertise preparing tax returns for the greater Waltham community. Their services are offered on a first come first serve basis through April 12th. If you would like to learn about about this opportunity you can check it our here.

Pssst...If you know of any other tax services that are available for students let us know and we will post it.

Thanks,

Savvy Student

Massachusetts Financial Aid Day at the State House

2011-03-01T14:54:00.004-05:00

Earlier today, The Massachusetts Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (MASFAA) and the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities in Massachusetts (AICUM) hosted “Student Financial Aid Day” at the State House. This event provided a unique opportunity for students from Massachusetts colleges and universities to have direct contact with their Representatives and Senators to convey the importance of need-based financial aid.

Brandeis was proud to be one of dozens of school that sent representatives to this important event. While there, they listened to remarks by elected officials, received advice on how to effectively talk to legislators, and had the opportunity to visit the offices of the representatives who represent Waltham.

Go Brandeis!

Savvy Student

SFS and Savvy Student Go Social

2011-02-22T16:05:00.003-05:00

We are increasing our visibility around campus and on the web. Check out our new FaceBook page, BrandeisSFS.

Visit it us often for up to date deadlines, money saving tidbits and access to all things financial including account information and student employment.

And, while you are there give us a "thumbs up".

-Savvy Student

Want a New Look For Free?

2011-02-16T09:23:00.001-05:00

Winter in the Northeast is a force to be reckoned with this year. The days seem unbearably long, homework is piling up and various application deadlines are approaching with the speed of sound.

Perhaps you could use some change to freshen things up?

What better than to shake it up and do it in a truly "Brandeis Social Justice" way while supporting a good cause? If this peaks your interest consider donating your hair. If you have an extra 10 to 25 inches of hair that you can live without give it up in support of Locks of Love. Just visit a hair salon in or around Boston that provide free or discounted rates on hair cuts for just this purpose.

Locks of Love is an organization that provides hair pieces to financially disadvantaged children suffering from long-term medical hair loss from any diagnosis. The organization has no religious or political affiliation and their mission is to promote well-being and restore children's self-esteem through this service.

In order to donate your hair you have to make sure that it is long enough and have not been bleached. Permed or colored hair works though! Locks of Love do sell some of the hair that is donated to the organization in case it is too short to be made into a wig.

Any salon can cut your hair and then you can mail it to the Locks of Love following the online instructions. However, if you are looking to save some money on the cut you should consider one of the salons that offer free or discounted rates for those willing to support a good cause.

One of these places is the high end Salon MJH on Newbury Street. Though a hair cut would normally cost you from $5o and up, if you choose to donate your hair it will only be $30 or less. The stylist will also wash and blow-dry your hair for free!

If you want to get inspiration for a new style check-out Pantene Beautiful Lengths, another hair donations' accepting organization.

Get excited!
Savvy Student

Is Financial Literacy a Concern?

2011-02-14T10:40:00.000-05:00

Should we be concerned that Financial Literacy programs are not mandatory on the high school or college level?

Yes!

In general, Americans are not properly trained to manage their own money and we are certainly not receiving a grade of "A" for effort. According to a National Survey conducted by FINRA, Financial Industry Regulatory Authority when focusing on four main components, "Making Ends Meet", "Planning Ahead", "Managing Financial Products", and "Financial Knowledge and Decision Making" the results are alarming. Nearly half of the survey respondents reported facing difficulty in covering monthly expenses and paying bills, while the majority of respondents did not even have a "rainy day" fund set aside for unanticipated financial emergencies. The survey also shows that American adults, although we feel we are able to manage money, engage in financial behaviors that generate additional expenses and fee's. Additionally, we also show an inability to do basic interest calculation and other math orientated tasks.

Yikes!

So, the big question out there is "Why does this matter?" and of course, "What's in it for me?" The answer is in the evidence of what our economy has become and the new regulations passed on banking and credit cards. For those of you reading with student loans, it will matter more when you graduate and begin repaying your debt. However, if you don't possess the necessary skills to manage your money now, it will be quite difficult later making you more likely to miss payments, make late payments or even default. The idea is to equip you with the appropriate tools, putting them into practice now, so that you can manage your debt, budget your paycheck and be financially successful later. That is why teaching Money Management skills now is of the utmost importance.

Your Credit Score, good or bad along with debt to income will affect future purchases such as a car, house or even renting an apartment. These long term goals may be easy to forget in the present when classes take priority, but eventually the time will come and we hope you will be prepared.

As a result of the survey and just in general, Savvy Student is putting a call to action out on the web to our readers. What interests you about personal finance? What topics would you like covered and what will help you focus on being financial independent after Brandeis???

Please write back and help us tackle financial literacy at Brandeis.

Cheers!

Savvy Student

February FUN Land

2011-02-09T11:25:00.000-05:00

For those of you still shivering from the past couple of draft-causing storms, you may want to review our previous post, "Winter Weather Advisory." For the rest of you, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the newly snow-filled wonderland (or escape it!) without emptying your wallets. Here are some tips for finding the cheapest way to a great spring break!

There are tons of websites that offer airplane tickets or hotel stays for discounted rates, just for college students (lucky you!). American Airlines gives students up to 10% off airfare costs and other travel components when booking on AA.com

Another great site geared towards college students is statravel.com, which guarantees the lowest prices. If you do find a cheaper price, the site with give you a free ISIC discount card(International Student ID Card), which offers discounts at typical retail stores and discounted train or flight rates. What a deal!

If you're willing, a great website for standby flights is AirTran. The website offers standby tickets specifically for students, which often turns out to be a great deal.

This website also mentions some great tools to finding tickets, such as Student Universe and Priceline. Check it out!

But if you aren't planning on traveling, there are still plenty of fun winter activities. Go see a hockey or basketball game at the TD Garden. Check out the ticket exchange option here, where you can purchase tickets, often cheaper. If you get inspired by the Bruins fancy footwork, perhaps you would like to do some ice skating yourself. The Boston Common Frog Pond is a popular attraction, where you can even rent ice skates! If you love to ski, check out this site for a great list of trails.

Now that you're equipped with loads of tools, all that's left is for you to decide your destination! Will it be a winter ski trip? Perhaps a warm getaway? Or maybe just a visit home? Regardless, you'll now be able to find the cheapest way to get there.

Happy Traveling!
Savvy Student

Winter Weather Advisory

2011-01-21T10:08:00.002-05:00

This is not your average advisory to tell you school's closed for the day (which by the way it is not), but I urge you to keep reading because at Savvy Student we always have your best interest in mind and today is no different.

If you haven't looked outside your window, it is snowing yet again! No big surprise that you will have to bundle up and dig your car out. And, because this isn't the first snow of the season you may want to take extra precautions around your dorm, apartment or car.

As it usually does, winter can take a toll on your wallet from heating bills and car repairs to doctor visits. However, if you take extra time to care for yourself and your belongings you might be able to cut back on these heavy hitters that strike your wallet and the most inopportune times.

For instance, take care of yourself by wearing weather appropriate clothing, washing your hands, using hand sanitizer and eating your fruits and vegetables or taking vitamin supplements. This is total common sense, but sometimes it slips by the wayside when other factors come into play.

If you are feeling under the weather take extra precautions by drinking lots of liquids, getting to bed early (and I don't mean midnight early) and if you believe in it, drinking Emergen-C or Airborne. Definitely seek medical attention if it is not just your average cold, but if you take extra precautions ahead of time, you may be able to avoid a visit to the health center.

If you live in a drafty apartment or dorm you can very inexpensively fix the problem without turning up the dial on your thermostat. There are insulation kits for windows under $15 available at stores like Home Depot that are fire safe and help trap the heat inside. An example of such a kit can be viewed here. You may also wish to cover your windows with heavy curtains instead of going to the trouble of saran wrapping them. If it is a door that's causing the problem you should consider purchasing a draft guard. Some versions of a draft stopper are more spendy, but you really just need something to block the gap by your door that is causing the cold air to come in. This could be as simple as a towel, but please be aware of items that are not fire safe.

For those of you who drive, since cars take the biggest bite out of your wallet we have saved this for last. It is of utmost importance to have your vehicle serviced regularly. If you have not done so already, you should also have your car winterized, making sure all your fluids are topped off, your tire pressure is good and your gas tank is full to avoid moisture build-up freezing the gas line. We have included a great article here from eHow on winterizing your vehicle.

Now that we are in the throws of winter, don't forget to take care of yourself and avoid extra bills that will add up and ultimately hurt your wallet.

Be safe and stay warm,

Savvy Student

The Scary Truth About College Loan Debt

2011-01-07T15:34:00.010-05:00

At Savvy Student we are always trying to provide you with the best advice for managing your debt, budgeting and saving your money. This is because each choice you make "today" will affect your "tomorrow". So, start now by developing good financial habits and making sound investment decisions, which can of course be done by reading our blog ;)

As many of you already know paying for college can be quite cumbersome and although, many students survive on credit cards and loans it is not the wisest solution. If handled responsibly, these make fine alternatives, however, most students lack the appropriate funding to make reasonable payments thereby increasing their debt and harming their financial future. The truth of the matter is that debt management is very easy, it just requires patience, dedication and a desire to achieve your goals. There is always help if you are willing to ask for it. Unfortunately, many students do not realize they are headed down "Bad Debt" Road until they are actually there and as equally alarming many are too embarrassed or ashamed to ask for help. We have all kinds of resources available at Savvy Student, including one on one personal assistance, if need be. Budgeting is a time consuming process, but essential towards debt management and spending control.

It is never fun to focus on other people's tragedies, however, it can be a learning experience for those not impacted by such events. And, we are bringing this to the forefront not to stress you out, but to prepare you. Unfortunately, college debt is real for many students and our hope is to educate you through other experiences, so as to avoid adverse actions thus impacting your financial future.

Recently CNBC posted an article and ran a program about the College Debt Crisis. This may come as a shock to some, but well worth checking out. If interested you can access the article here.

11 Tips For Investing in 2011

2011-01-04T12:48:00.002-05:00

With the start of a new year comes new resolutions and new opportunities for financial growth. In our effort to keep you up to date with the latest advice, we have come across eleven great suggestions for investing in your future, Brandeis education aside.

The website, mymoneymanagement.net is a wonderful resource which is supported by The Financial Services Roundtable. This Roundtable is comprised of CEO's from 100 of the largest financial services companies. Both member companies and their employees help finance the U.S economy, so you know their advice must be worth listening too right? And, we are talking about this now because mymoneymanagement recently published 11 new tips for becoming financially stable in 2011 that are easy to follow and require little to no finance background.

Suggestions include starting out early and ending late. By putting a little money aside now and slowly adding to it overtime you will have more of a financial cushion after retirement. Mymoneymanagement also advises reading the "fine print", knowing and understanding the details first before investing your money. If you wish to learn more the full article is available here.

Happy New Year!!!!

Savvy Student

Year End Wrap Up

2010-12-21T09:30:00.000-05:00

Now that the fall semester is a distant memory and finals have become an after thought, it's the perfect time to look over your budget and put to use many of the tips we have offered throughout the semester. Use the break to reevaluate your spending habits and to take an honest look at how you did. Were you able to stick to your budget or were there times you went off track? The winter break is also the perfect time to prepare financially for the spring semester when renewal aid applications are due. So, as New Year's looms closer and the unmistakable "Ole Lang Zine" plays out, we would like to offer a few last 2010 parting pieces of advice.

First of all and most importantly- CONGRATULATIONS!!! You survived the fall semester and are coming back for more. If not more school, then more advice from the staff at Savvy Student. Such smart readers we have!

Second, in terms of personal finance create a new budget for yourself or readjust an old one. It is not uncommon to update your budget throughout the year to account for your spending habits or change in circumstances. If you spent the semester tracking your purchases and sticking to a budget then the big question is how did you do? If this holiday season drove you into the red zone, perhaps you can focus on cutting back a little in January. Either way, give yourself a pat on the back for trying to budget, and then learn from your successes or failures, making your New Year's resolution about mastering the art of money management.

Our third step for success is to plan ahead and begin the process of renewing or applying for need-based financial aid. All U.S. Citizens and Permanent Residents are required to re-apply for assistance each academic year by submitting the CSS Profile, FAFSA and prior year's Federal tax returns. The Profile has been available since October and the FAFSA will be up and running by January 1st. Over break you can take the time to get a jump start on your application by rounding up all family financial information and locating your FAFSA pin. All materials must be submitted to the Office of Student Financial Services by April 29th. That leaves you plenty of time to apply, however, the spring semester goes by in a flash and you don't want to be left outside in the cold.

In addition, break is the perfect time to start a job search for the spring semester. Whether it be an On-Campus job or an internship for the summer, it's best to move quickly and be prepared. Get your resume ready and set up the necessary interviews and meetings through Hiatt Career Center.

When you've got a handle on your budgets, deadlines, and necessary career steps, you should be ready to celebrate 2011 in style and with all your finances under control.

Good Luck and Happy New Year!
Savvy Student

FAFSA Help

2010-12-08T11:53:00.000-05:00

For returning students throughout the country, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid is a perennial requirement for qualifying for Federal Student Aid. Though students can't begin completing the FAFSA until January 1^st (Brandeis’ specific deadlines are available here), it is advisable to acquaint yourself with the Application earlier rather than later. Doing so will better prepare you to complete the form by the deadlines and ensure that you're eligible to receive any federal assistance you qualify for

Moneywatch.com, a website run by CBS has offered their advice for preparing to tackle the FAFSA in the coming months. If you haven’t completed the FAFSA before, remember you must apply for a FAFSA PIN, which can be taken care of online, at the following address: http://www.pin.ed.gov/PINWebApp/appinstr.jsp.

Also encouraged is reviewing the information that is required for the FAFSA. Students can print out the FAFSA worksheet here, to view what financial information they will have to report.

The recommendations of the article are also available here.

Finally, if you have any trouble completing the FAFSA, remember that there are many resources at your disposal. Moneywatch.com offers their own list. Additionally, each student at Brandeis has a financial aid advisor willing to help them through the application process.

Savvy Student

No Rest for the Weary

2010-11-22T11:04:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving is a day to relax and unwind, to be thankful for our many blessings in life including family, friends and winning NFL team. In all seriousness, it is a time to catch up on new stories and reminisce over old ones, while sitting around the table eating a warm turkey dinner with all the trimmings. Some may gather by a fire and others around the flat screen, but either way it is a break from school and the calm before the storm of the holiday season which officially kicks-off with Black Friday.

For some, Black Friday is a holiday tradition that involves trekking out to the mall in the wee hours of the morning to either begin or complete holiday shopping. For others it is a game of grab and go to avoid the mob scene and insane lines. Either way, whether you love the idea or hate it, Black Friday is a great shopping day for budget conscious people. And, if you are not use this kind of shopping scene then please stay tuned because we have the 411 on how to survive and be successful amongst the crowds.

1. If you are shopping for others Be Prepared. Have your list and check it twice. Plan a course of action and be aware of what each store is offering on Black Friday. Some sales are considered "Door Busters" or are offered in limited quantity only, so you should arrive early to take advantage. Other stores will have day long or weekend long deals, so decide where you wish to exert your efforts.

2. Check out the deals ahead of time. Click here to connect to the official website for 2010 Black Friday Deals. You can also visit slickdeals.net for a comparison of Friday's best deals.

3. Do your research! There are lots of great online resources that break down the best deals for different sale items. For example, check out this CNet page for laptop deals.

4. Shop online.. early! Many stores are offering BlackFriday deals online on THURSDAY.. so after you've eaten your turkey you can get the deals you want without leaving home! See this news article to look at stores that offer this deal.

5. Use connections. If your family member or friend is out shopping too ask them to help scout out deals for you. You can tri-county or tri-state shop very easily this way which can be especially handy for hard to get items such as electronics.

Should you wish to avoid crowds and stay inside you will still be able to snag great deals online for Cyber Monday, the internet follow-up to Black Friday. this year's Cyber Monday event is November 29th.

Happy Holidays!

Savvy Student

Used Books, and New Ways to Sell Them

2010-11-16T09:29:00.000-05:00

Stuck with a book you bought for a dropped class? Or how about that old chemistry book that you never want to see again? Savvy Student knows how to take away the bulk, and for a profit.

As the semester end approaches, all students will want to sell their books as soon as the last final is over. Most go back to the bookstore for the low price because they don’t want to worry about it later on. But for those who are willing to search around and find the highest price, Bookscouter.com is the place to go.

BookScouter, an online book selling blog, has plenty of useful tools to help you track down the best prices for your used books using their ISBN. BookScouter will not help you to necessarily sell your books, but at least you will know how to get the most for your old Calculus friend.

Once you have determined how much you want to get for your books, it's time to go to Half.com
You can post your items online after an easy registration process. The website will show you suggested prices in comparison those advertised by other sellers. Be realistic! Don't expect to get $70 for a textbook that someone else is selling for $30. As you have probably noticed, many supermarkets attract their clients by setting the price at $29.99 for something their competitor is marking at $30. Strategize!

Once someone decides to purchase your book, you will be notified via email by Half.com. Additionally, they will send you a print-out page that you will attach to the book you are mailing. Make sure to follow all the instructions and mail the order promptly! Half.com will refund you for the mailing costs, and you will receive the entire amount you sold the book for. The refunds are disbursed twice a month. Pretty good deal, right?

Also, don't forget to check with your friends; perhaps one of them is planning to take the same course next semester, and is willing to buy it at a reduced cost without any hassle. MyBrandeis has a forum for students advertising their used books.

Happy re-selling,
Savvy Student

A Deliciously Inexpensive Thanksgiving

2010-11-11T11:44:00.000-05:00

As the smell of turkey, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie gets closer by the second, students across the country are faced with many decisions regarding plans for Thanksgiving. While the holiday can be an excellent opportunity to connect with relatives, watch the yearly football games and enjoy Grandma's most beloved dishes, it can also be something of a financial burden for cost-conscious college students. No need to fret, however, because Savvy Student is here to make this Turkey Day just as memorable, and much more affordable.

For students living more than a short drive from campus, transportation often comprises a large portion of Thanksgiving expenses. To minimize the cost of getting home, consider all the transportation options available to you. For lots of students, flying is only one of many options, and the other options may be cheaper. Consider taking a bus, train, or passenger seat in a friend's car if you live near one another.

This year, the Brandeis Student Union will be providing Turkey Shuttles again for those heading off to New York for the holiday. It is not always cheaper to take this shuttle rather than taking the Mega Bus or the Bolt Bus, yet it is much more convenient as you will not have to face the Thanksgiving craziness taking the public transportation in the city.

If you do choose to fly, compare the prices of all major airlines before making a decision. For example, www.kayak.com allows travelers to compare the flight prices from most online booking services simultaneously. Moreover, take when you're buying tickets into consideration. Though there is a bit of disagreement between travel gurus, most recommend either Tuesday or Wednesday as the optimal day to buy airline tickets.

Also, think about getting yourself an ISIC (International Student Identification Card). For a $22 investment, you are eligible to receive an 11% discount off of Jet Blue flights and 15% off the lowest AMTRAK fares. The STA travel web-page, also offers student discounts, so be sure to check it out.

Make sure to check MyBrandeis for car pools before you get any tickets. Other students may be offering a ride to those who are looking for one, especially around the holiday time!

Happy Turkey Eating!
Savvy Student

Pump Up the Prime...

2010-11-05T11:27:00.000-04:00

How many of you have student loans, but no clue who the lender is, what your terms are or even the interest rate? Credit and loans can be quite complicated and too overwhelming to understand without some guidance. Instead of taking the time to research and understand your debts, it may be easier to plug in the iPod and zone out of reality. That is, until graduation when loans become a borrowed reality that require repayment. So, instead of hitting the old snooze button, splash some water on your face and continue reading...

Wells Fargo bank has created a worksheet to layout, in lamens terms the difference between principal and interest and prime rate versus margin, etc. If you have loans or credit cards, but the terms confuse you please take a peek at the worksheet here.

Planning Your Meals

2010-11-03T12:00:00.000-04:00

Buying groceries may be fun at first until you get to the checkout lane. As prices increase for eggs, milk and the like it may be hard to keep to a student budget and even harder to eat good-for-you foods. If you have opted out of the meal plan, then this has become a gross reality, but we at Savvy Student want to turn your frown upside down by providing some tips to help save you money.

1. Buy Local

Not only does it feel good to support local farmers - it can also save you money. Although the farmer's market in Waltham is done for the season, that doesn't mean that buying local isn't possible. Boston still has farmer's markets through November! There are markets near city hall and by south station. Cambridge also has markets going on during the week and weekend.

For more information, including a list of vendors and specific dates and times, check out http://www.massfarmersmarkets.org

2. Buy Big

Those individual serving-size packages may seem nice, simple, and easy, but they can cost you big time in the long run. Instead, buy larger packages (a good example is applesauce: cup versus large jar), invest in some reusable containers (20pk Ziploc at Costco for $10), and portion yourself out a serving whenever you need to bring your lunch. If you're afraid you're buying too much, buddy up and share with a friend! It will cut costs for both of you.

3. Don't Over-buy Perishables

Unless you have room in your freezer, don't buy more fresh food items than you could normally use in a week. While some vegetables may last a bit longer, you should be especially careful with meats, dairy products (other than cheese), humus, tofu, etc. If you're unsure how long a product can last in your fridge, check the package or do some good Google-searching.

4. Cook Your Own

Generally, preparing your own home-cooked meals will be much cheaper than buying pre-made items. Chicken for example, can become rather expensive when you buy bags of pre-breaded and baked strips. Instead, you should buy a large freezer-bag of chicken breasts, and find different ways to prepare them for yourself. This will give you the freedom to add more variety to your diet sparing you the boredom of a routine meal.

5. Communal Eating

Many of these suggestions become easier when made into group activities. If you and your roommates have very similar eating habits, or at least consume many of the same items, you can go grocery shopping together. This way you can share the responsibility, cost, and can buy fresh items in bulk without worrying about waste. You can also share the task of preparing food, which is especially nice if you consider cooking to be a chore. This can save time, encourage group time even during midterms, and add more variety to your pallet with the different cooking styles of your group.

6. Simplify and Stretch

Make the recipe your own, a lovely college-student budget version. Eliminate any garnishes, make sure the number of servings is appropriate (allrecipes.com will automatically calculate the recipe to the number of servings you want), and trim the rest of the recipe down to the main flavors. If your apple-squash recipe calls for walnuts, you can skip them if they break your budget. You can change various fruits and vegetables (if you already know how they taste) to work in cheaper and in-season ones. Slim down on the amount of seasoning, oil, butter, etc you use to cut costs and calories. If you're nervous, just keep an eye on the consistency, etc as you prepare the meal and adjust the ingredients as you go. If you're big on the boxed meals, stretch them. For example, you can add an extra cup of pasta and a cup of water to your hamburger helper for additional servings. If you can, always add cheap "filler foods." You have your entire life after graduating, paying off loans, and beginning a career to make yourself into a more "gourmet" cook.

7. Nutrition

To cut down on the amount you consume in a week, fill your diet with items that keep you full. Usually this means they have a lot of fiber. You can take a multi-vitamin, and make small changes to your diet. Instead of drinking a few gallons of juice, stick to the actual fruit. The juice is often full of sugar and missing many essential nutrients that the fruits themselves contain, including fiber. This is especially true for orange and apple juice. The longer you stay full, the less you eat, the less you have to buy.

8. Experiment

Use what you have. Did you know you can make delicious peanut butter cookies with just a cup of sugar, a cup of peanut butter, and an egg? There is a great website that will give you recipes for whatever food you have on hand- it's fun to experiment and it's practical for those days when you don't think you have options. Check it out here: www.cuisine.co.nz

9. Clip Coupons and Shop Generic

If you have access to a grocery store cheaper than Hannaford's, take advantage. If you can find coupons online or in the paper for your favorite items and grocery stores, don't forget them. It may help to clip in advance and pin them to the fridge. If your brand isn't on sale, get over that mental barrier and finally admit that a bag of Toasty Oats tastes exactly the same as a yellow box of Cheerios.

Check out these links: http://print.coupons.com/, www.couponmom.com and www.couponcabin.com

Happy eating!

Savvy Student

Shop 'Till You Drop And Save Money

2010-11-02T12:56:00.001-04:00

The Holiday Season is upon us and here at Savvy Student we are investigating new ways to shop for those holiday gifts. With the end of the semester, it is often times difficult for students to focus on anything other than final papers and exams. There is certainly no time to go to the mall and spend time waiting in long lines to check out. Instead, why not save money and go shopping without ever having to leave your dorm room or apartment? Research shows that online shopping does in fact save you more money. Our detectives have uncovered a few websites that we hope you will check out below.

1) Couponcowgirl.com Everyone loves using coupons, but finding coupons for a particular store is very time consuming. Couponcowgirl.com is a website that groups discounts for popular apparel, consumer electronics, books, music, and everything else imaginable into one easy to navigate location. There are tons of online coupons and daily offers that can be found on most sites and are often combined with free shipping deals.

2) Similar to couponcowgirl, some websites will alert you when new sales come up. One such site is dealspl.us which shows you all kinds of deals- sales, free items and coupon codes for online shopping. It updates frequently during the day so check back every so often!

3) The ever-so-frustrating two days after you purchase reduction has met its match with PriceProtectr.com, a website that tracks the price of a product that you are looking to buy. After signing up and entering the URL of the item at the online store, this website will track its price. If there are any changes, you will receive an email notification. What could be simpler?

4) Price comparison sites such as PriceGrabber.com enable the consumer to shop smarter, by compare several retailer's prices of a specific product. The consumer not only gets competitive pricing information, but also product reviews and site reviews in order to help with their decision of what and where to buy online. Learn more about the advantages of online shopping here.

5) Take advantage of free gifts offered with purchase. Many stores, especially during the holiday season, offer free gifts and discounts with purchases of a certain amount. This way, you purchase the holiday gifts you need while also receiving a free gift(perhaps a little well deserved holiday present for yourself!) But be careful to not overspend! Don't splurge on something that you don't need just to receive that bonus flowered scarf that you're never going to wear!

6) Check out auction sites such as eBay.com , Yahooo Auctions, or uBid.com. Scouring these sites will allow you to get the best deal possible for the product you are looking for. And of course, you get the added bonus of watching the countdown of the clock until your exciting victory of that adorable pair of shoes or the LCD TV that you've been dreaming of.

Online shopping is often a fairly simple process, and most retailers have improved their sites to be more user-friendly. It sure beats standing around in long lines, especially during the mayhem of the holiday season. Take advantage of online deals and discounts, making sure you find the gift you're looking for at the cheapest price possible!

Happy Shoppping!
Savvy Student

Holiday Season Employment Opportunities

2010-10-28T14:30:00.001-04:00

If you're still trying to find part-time employment on campus, you may find it easier to instead work off-campus at one of the many area retailers. While November and December may not be the best time to find university jobs, it happens to be the best time to find part-time retail work. So, while you wait for the new spring job list, take a look at this article from CNN Money and start applying to some local shops.

Where to look:

Watertown & Arsenal malls

Stores like Old Navy, Marshall's, Target, Best Buy and the Gap will be hiring extra workers for the holiday season. The location is easily accessible from Waltham via the 70 & 70a buses.

You may also choose to spend the day walking around Harvard Square and Newbury Street (both reached quickly and easily via the Brandeis shuttle). Each of these areas have a large selection of stores and would be a great way to kick off your holiday job hunt. Make sure you take a look at the Form I-9 online here to ensure that if you are offered a job, you'll have the proper identification to be hired.

While some of the available jobs may turn into permanent part-time positions, keep in mind that most will be "temporary" or "seasonal," so it's best to keep an eye out for spring postings on campus if you're looking for a permanent gig.

Good luck!

Savvy Student

The Golden Rule...

2010-10-26T12:00:00.000-04:00

Life's Golden Rule is to treat others how you wish to be treated. When it comes to your money, the same rule still applies - treat your money how you wish to be treated. What do I mean? It's simple, really.

Your money, your credit score, and your spending habits are all a direct reflection of you. If your goal is to be treated with respect and perceived as a responsible adult, you will handle your money accordingly. As such, you will probably create a budget and stick to it, while tracking all of your expenditures. Students in this category will have a higher credit score, which is a good indication of how likely you are to pay your bills on time. The higher your credit score, the lower the interest rate and, ultimately, the cheaper the items will be that you are investing in.

Do you have tendencies towards disorganization? Are you focusing more on your wants than simply your needs? If so, your personal finance skills will suffer and you will be haunted by a series of bad decisions and long recovery time. The free spirit, party boy/girl reputation may be fun while at college, but always remember the Golden Rule because it still applies. Do you want to be seen as unreliable and therefore your money being treated as such? Of course not! So, if you want your money to work for you, you have to treat it with respect. Money doesn't grow on tree's, but it can multiply in a savings account or proper investment account. this will only work if both the individual and money are maturing.

In the simplest of terms, do not spend more than you have, and do not use credit cards or loans to pad your lifestyle.

Wells Fargo has a great money management blog called the Student Loandown. There is also other very valuable information on their website specific to college student finances. Writer Ben Osmond speaks about the "Simple Rules for Success in College". Please check out his article here.

If the Golden Rule is to treat others how you wish to be treated, then the Platinum Rule is treat others how they wish to be treated. Your money should be treated with respect and honor because it was earned out of hard work. Money should multiply and grow. It does not want to be wasted on late fee's or overdraft fee's bred out of irresponsibility. Whether you receive a paycheck or you took out loans to help afford school you want to be certain that your money is not being spent frivolously or without purpose.

The next time you make a purchase think about it. Decide how it will affect you in the long run and whether the cost per use is enough to validate the sale. And, don't forget to check out Wells Fargo, Student Loandown!

Thanks,

Savvy Student

Mountain Madness

2010-10-21T11:38:00.000-04:00

As the days get shorter and the weather turns colder it is a sure sign that winter is right around the corner. Now for some people it's best to just hunker down, wait it out and reappear in the spring, kind of like Punxsutawney Phil, the groundhog. For others, however, especially in New England it's best to bundle up and ride the mountain, taking in all the fresh air and great views. Yet, if you are new to the area or have spent the winter trying to catch snowflakes on your tongue you may be unprepared for such winter activities as skiing, sledding, skating and snowboarding.

So, if you are waiting by the sidelines for winter to come and go, wait no longer. Take The Situation (hehehe) into your own hands and get prepared for a winter full of fun outdoor madness. The more it snows, the more fun you'll have.

The biggest hurdle to overcome besides the cold is the money involved in affording such fun. Well, although the outdoors is free, most of the activities are not and equipment can be somewhat costly. But, instead of saying "forget it" please keep reading.

Not to bury the lead, but if you are looking for skis, snowboards, boots or bindings and the cost has you twitching, you can go to Building 19 in Burlington, MA for their mega ski sale this Saturday (10/23). If you get their early enough you'll be shredding in style. The quality and pricing may vary, but you can expect to find gear starting at $40 and up.

If you are unable to make it on Saturday, there are still deals to be had. Play it Again Sports is another great solution for building your winter activity portfolio. There are several locations, but as the name implies you are buying gently used or refurbished equipment.

If you are inclined towards purchasing items online there are a few great websites to check out. Backcountryoutlet.com offers a huge discount on clothing and gear. Sometimes colors and sizing are limited, but you can always check for deals on the main site, Backcountry.com. Steapandcheap.com is another online retailer that offers one deal at a time until either the clock runs out (every 20 minutes) or until the items are sold. You can expect to find a range of items from clothing, shoes, and camping gear to coats, bags and sunglasses. Steapandcheap will also display deals from its cousin websites such as Tramdock.com, WhiskeyMilitia.com and Chainlove.com. Each of the above sites specializes either in winter/ski gear, skateboarding gear, etc.

With all of your gear squared away you will be ready to hit the slopes in no time. Getting inexpensive lift tickets, however, can be another hurdle, but if you begin your search early enough you should be able to snag a great deal. Some mountains, including Wachusett and Nashoba Valley will discount their season passes if you buy before a certain day. Also, lift tickets are cheaper at night or when purchased in a group.

If you would rather spend your time on a frozen pond or at a rink there are several to choose from. Of course, ponds are free you just need the skates which you can get at a thrift store, discount retailer, etc. As for an ice rink, between the Frog Pond in Boston or the skating facilities at Nashoba, you'll be able to rent skates and have access to the rink for roughly $12 per session.

With all of these winter activities you will be able to conquer the cold, save money and it will be spring again before you know.

See you on the Northface,

Savvy Student

Trick or Treat, Scholarships are Sweet!!!

2010-10-19T09:42:00.006-04:00

With each passing semester, student loan debt gets scarier. But instead of being haunted by thoughts of repayment, Savvy Student wants to help untangle your web of concern. Instead of dressing like a ghost or goblin this Halloween, put on your "most likely to succeed" costume and keep reading...

Instead of filling your bag with candy this year, why not fill it with money instead - hypothetically anyways! There are numerous websites for outside-scholarship opportunities including our own through Student Financial Services. With so much FREE money at your fingertips, we wanted to help you get started.

To begin, we have recently come across a scholarship resource called Lilyslist. This website was published in the October/November issue of the Student Loan Buying Guide magazine. Created roughly eight months ago, Lilyslist offers any individual with current student loan debt the opportunity to publish information about their career goals and student loan debt online. In turn, family, friends and alumni can donate money directly to the student's loan account. This is a nice way to help rid yourself of mountains and mountains of debt incurred after graduation. Suggest it as a nice holiday, birthday or graduation gift.

Another useful ingredient in your cauldron of success is www.scholarships4school.com. This site is free to use and well organized. There are suggestions on where to find scholarships as well as a categorized list of opportunities.

As your Tricks and Treats wear down for the night, you may wish to consider another avenue for outside money. If essays are not your strong suit, you can search for unique scholarships that may require creativity over writing skills. For example, there are scholarships awarded for dwarfism, for height, for being left-handed and even for those that have the best "buy/sell" stock predictions. Add to that list Starfleet Academy Scholarships and The Klingon Language Institute for Memorial Scholarship, which is a Star Trek scholarship for language and linguistic students.

Hopefully your candy bag is filled with yummy treats, but if not, at least you have a few tricks up your sleeve to help afford college.

Happy Haunting,

Savvy Student

Scary Cheap Halloween Tricks and Treats

2010-10-14T11:45:00.002-04:00

Frightened by all the costs lurking behind your ideal Halloween? Savvy Student is here to shed some light on the shadows and protect you with a salt-circle of thrilling but wallet-friendly fun.

DO NOT spend a lot of money on your costume. No college student should willingly spend $60 or more for an over produced costume from a costume shop or Halloween Store. The costumes available for purchase are generally made from cheap fabric and can be easily copied.

Go through your own closet! You never know what those old sweaters and hats are good for. Get creative! Look around your dorm or apartment to get ideas. You may even be able to borrow your roommate's or friends accessories to help finish off your look. Costumes can be a mix of styles and genre's.

If you are still missing an essential part of your costume visit the local thrift store here in Waltham or hop on the Brandeis shuttle and visit the Garment District. If you start planning early enough chances are you will be able to create an original costume or revive one from prior years.

Lastly, refer to our popular post from last year titled: DIY Halloween Costumes.

Now all you need is your train ticket to Salem,

Savvy Student

Budget-Friendly Fall Fun (BFFF)

2010-10-12T11:09:00.008-04:00

There is nothing better than fall in New England, from the array of colors, apple orchards, and clean, crisp air to, of course, football season with Tom Brady and the Patriots. No matter the season, there is always something fun to do or somewhere unique to go in and around Massachusetts. We have picked a variety of activities that can be enjoyed on a college student's budget. So, if you are interested in seeing what sets New England apart from the rest of the country, please read on...

1. Go Apple or Pumpkin Picking

There are several apple orchards near Waltham where you can enjoy hot cider, fresh donuts, apples, and pears. The more popular spots are located just west of Brandeis, like at Honey Pot Hill, Carlson, or Carver orchards. Oftentimes, Brandeis coordinates Saturday bus trips to one of these locations, so feel free to check with Student Activities. If you've had your fill of apples and your interest lies in the "Great Pumpkin," you can find an array of sizes and colors at local farm stands, grocery stores, or any of the above-listed orchards. You may even want to check out the Waltham Farmers Market for some good fall deals.

You can find a list of MA orchards here. Keep in mind most of these farms have home-grown and homemade items in their shops throughout the year, but are only open temporarily for picking season.

2. Take Advantage of the Off Season deals to Cape Cod and other destinations in Massachusetts.

Many of the NE summer hot spots, such as the Cape, Martha's Vineyard, or Newport, R.I., have fantastic off-season deals for those who wish to enjoy the changing seasons. The prices drop significantly after Labor Day at tourist destinations in and around Massachusetts. This can be a great time to visit places that are traditionally crowded during the summer, but still offer year-round activities.

3. Get Out

Take a walk or drive through the streets of Massachusetts. Prospect Hill and Wachusett Mountain offer fantastic views of all the fall foliage. By exploring a little, you may find a hidden gem that sells hot cider or apple crisp. What is more New England than that?

4. Cold-Weather Camping

Many campgrounds are still open for the fall season, so it's still a great way to get away from college stresses for a couple of days. Check with the Mountain Club (MountainQM@brandeis.edu) if you don't have any gear, as you may be able to borrow theirs on occasion. Look back to our Cheap Summer Fun Camping (2010) blog for more ideas.

6. Biking

Rent a bike from DeisBikes for the day and explore the area. Wear a backpack to bring your meal with you, and just get lost! (You might want to remember to save enough time to find your way back to return the bikes on time.)

Have other Fall fun ideas you'd like to share? Send them to us at sfs@brandeis.edu!

~Savvy Student

Living Off Campus...Now What?

2010-10-07T10:00:00.005-04:00

Have you recently traded your on-campus diggs for off-campus city living? Having an apartment for the first time can be quite exciting- a new space all to yourself. However, having to furnish an apartment can be quite costly and overwhelming. With furniture and food not readily available it can be stressful thinking about where to get plates, glasses and silverware, not to mention a bed, linens or desk. But (dundadadun) never fear, Savvy Student is here and we have the 411 to put all your fears to rest.

Remember that you are still in college and will have plenty of time to buy nice things for future homes. Get only what you need or will truly put to use, and make sure to get it cheap. Chances are you will either have to get rid of some things when moving to a new place or they may be destroyed from wear and tear, so investing a lot of money into your apartment might not be the wisest decision. Things happen, and your college-age apartment should be flexible enough to handle everyday use without breaking your bank or your heart.

For furniture or odds and ends, shop around. You can snag great deals on my.brandeis.edu or Craigslist. You can also find cheap home goods at a thrift store or garage sale. Try raiding your parent's basement or garage for old items you can reuse, what is better than free? If you have roommates decide what each of you will contribute, lessening the individual burden. If you do need to go shopping remember that you are in college and although Pottery Barn, Crate and Barrel and William Sonoma sound great, you may be on a Kmart, Walmart or Christmas Tree Shops budget.

Depending on your apartment and lifestyle, it may not hurt to invest in one piece of good furniture, such as a mattress. Just keep in mind your budget and what you actually NEED, not what you may WANT. Live within your means, do not rely on student loans as a way to afford things you may not ordinarily have the cash for.

If you are going to be living with roommates, you may want to invest in a membership to Costco or BJ's - just make sure it will be worth the annual fee and that you have a way to get there.

Only think about the necessities. It's understandable that you may want to watch television here and there or surf the web, but start off slow. Brandeis has wireless connection throughout campus and the library is open until 2 am. You can use these resources to finish that paper and not have to pay the costly fees of Internet and cable.

As a college student, Savvy Student understands that there is budget to stick to and we are helping you do just that. Think wisely of every purchase for your brand new apartment. It does not have to be completely furnished in the first few days. Pace yourself--it will look like a home in due time.

Happy Home Making,

Savvy Student

Know Your Resources - MyBrandeis

2010-10-04T11:12:00.001-04:00

Tired of using Craigslist to sell your old bike or electronics? Has Ebay become too expensive? These websites are a convenient way for students to earn extra cash for those items in the corner collecting dust, but they can also be a bit suspect at times. A great alternative to these sites and perhaps a hidden gem at Brandeis is the my.brandeis.edu classified ads. This website offers students the opportunity to connect with one another to buy and sell items, be part of PAID research opportunities, share carpools and other awesome chances to network with other Brandeis students and local people in need of assistance.

If you are viewing this site for the first time you can be assured that all the wanted and for sale ads are legitimate, as you need a Brandeis issued email address to post the information. Additionally, if you plan to sell your items you can use the campus for your pick-up address. Please be advised for job postings, off-campus housing or other ads a Brandeis email address is not required.

Aside from job postings and items for sale, my.brandeis.edu also has a great calendar with all upcoming on campus events. So, next time you are about to search ebay or craigslist, be savvy and check your own campus first.

~ Savvy Student

Christmas in October?

2010-09-29T11:55:00.005-04:00

As each tree changes color and the scent of apples grow stronger it is hard to miss the fact that fall has arrived. With October on our heels, thoughts of Halloween, spiders, witches and ghosts come to mind, not Christmas tree's or holiday decorations. It is always shocking to see marketing efforts for the holiday season inflicted on us earlier each year making us complacent come December, but for many, 4th quarter sales help push the bottom line.

So, instead of being annoyed by the rush of the seasons and lack of holiday spirit it has become apparent that we should take this opportunity to embrace the moment and begin planning for what lies ahead. Specifically, this is a perfect time to begin looking at or creating your holiday budget. With the onslaught of Hanukkah, Christmas and Kwanzaa, it always seems that there is never enough money or time to buy gifts for all those special people on your list, but with Savvy Student we have you covered. Now is the perfect time to get organized and make your list.

You should first figure out how much money you will have to spend on holiday gifts and travel. You will also want to consider what time frame you have if you need to save up. Try to avoid buying gifts on credit unless you have the cash to pay it off. Interest will ultimately hike up the price of your purchases if you are not able to pay off your balance on time.

Determine how many people are on your shopping list and what budget you have set for each person.

If you are handy with tools or possess arts and crafts skills, put these to use and make presents. Homemade gifts are more special than store bought ones and will potentially save you money.

If you start window shopping early enough you can gather great ideas. This will also give you time to potentially find your gifts at a discount.

Another helpful tip is to think backwards in order to save money. As winter approaches, all summer and fall items will be discounted making potentially great gifts. Even though it's cold outside, you are not required to give presents relevant to the season. A gift you get in the winter, but can use in the spring or summer is like a two for one deal. The same applies in the spring, when all winter items are deeply discounted.

Also, think outside the box, literally. Volunteering is free of charge and could be the best gift around. Sending money to a legitimate charity can be a great way to share in the holiday spirit. You can also give your time away as a gift, free of charge by providing services such as shoveling, cleaning or cooking for your loved ones.

Something old, something new, something borrowed...usually pertains to weddings, but why not gather old gift cards for the holidays and re-gift them. Find the cards that you have been holding on to, the ones that have miscellaneous amounts remaining and add to them. It may not be a huge savings for you, but every little bit helps.

So, the next time you are out and about this month and you come face to face with a Christmas tree or Menorah don't roll your eyes, but be thankful for the opportunity to budget and plan, thus saving you a huge chunk of cash for the holidays. A little planning goes a long way.

If you have any other money saving tips please let us know and we will post your thoughts.

Tis the Season,

Savvy Student

Get to know your loans

2010-09-23T15:22:00.000-04:00

Its that time of the year again--time to complete your Entrance Counseling and sign your Master Promissory Note. Don't you hate when you request your refund but can't get it until you complete entrance counseling? Get a head start and visit studentloans.gov and complete it now. Not only should you do that, but you should also do a little research on your loans.

Know your lender and have a plan.
This may seem basic, but you may have multiple loans from multiple sources. Contact your lenders to let them know when you are out of college and about to begin repayment. Can you set up payments online? What repayment plans are available? Check out your repayment plan options and remember you can manage your loan account online.

Stay prepared, stay in touch, and stay organized. Getting ready to repay loans means understanding your responsibilities and being ready to make good on them. Do you have any money saved to prepare for when you have to start repaying? It's a smart idea to put a little aside during your grace period (and before if possible) so the monthly payments have less effect on your monthly budget. Open all mail and e-mails you receive about student loans immediately, because the information can be vital and time-sensitive. Keep all files and communication about your loans organized, so you can stay on top of your payments and stay on track to repay them on time.

Should you consolidate? Consolidating multiple loans into one loan can simplify your payments.You can consolidate your federal loans as well as your private student loans. Plus, if your financial situation has changed or you apply with a cosigner who has good credit, you may qualify for better terms on a private consolidation loan. Keep in mind that by consolidating you're extending your repayment term, which may lower your monthly obligation, but could mean paying more interest over time. However, since student loans have no prepayment penalty, you could always make additional payments when you are able to do so.

Understand deferment and forbearance options. No matter how much you plan for repayment, you may still run into unexpected bumps in the road and need to postpone your payments. We offer several deferment options for federal loans. And if you experience financial hardship, can't make your payments and don't qualify for deferment, you should be aware of the option to get a loan forbearance.

Hope this helps!

Savvy Student

Money Management Tips For College Students

2010-09-17T12:52:00.004-04:00

Just because we love talking about it, we have included a link to Bankrate.com's website where they have established 12 really great tips for saving money and learning how to budget.

Bankrate, Inc was established in 1976 as "Bank Rate Monitor," a print publisher for the banking industry. After two decades of conducting quality, trusted rate research Bankrate made their online debute in 1996.

If you are interested in checking out their article please click here.

Let us know what you think and please give ideas for future posts that you want to read/know about.

Savvy Student

Fun Free Fantastic

2010-09-15T11:00:00.000-04:00

Those of you who just moved to the East Coast might not be aware of how cold it gets out here. It is hard to imagine 20 degree weather now, especially after the recent heat wave. This is a perfect opportunity to enjoy a nice day while you can! And what Savvy Student particularly likes - spend zero dollars on it!

Explore Free Fun Fridays last weekend offers!

Discover Prospect Hill Park in Waltham (free!)

Take the Brandeis shuttle into Boston and visit the Berkley Jazz Festival on Columbus Ave. from September 15th to the 25th (free!)

Grab a book and visit The Public Garden and Boston Commons (free!)

Take the Freedom Trail from Downtown to the North End (free!)

Share a ride to the Walden Pond State Reservation in Concord Mass. Hike, swim and fish! Take 117 to route 126. (Parking $5)

Watch a free movie at Brandeis.

Or check out this calendar :)

Happy September!
Savvy Student

Overdraft Protection

2010-09-07T12:14:00.003-04:00

If you have a debit or ATM card, it's likely you've received a letter encouraging you to opt-in to their overdraft service. For anyone who previously saw a $5.00 purchase turn into a $40 expense, it may seem strange that your bank would request your permission to participate in overdraft protection. The letter you received was prompted by a series of new federal overdraft rules that went into effect Sunday, August 15th. Included within these rules was a provision that requires a bank to receive permission to charge you fees for their overdraft service.

If you choose to participate in overdraft protection, your overdraft service will continue as it has in the past.

If you decline the bank's offer, your card will be declined when a debit or ATM transaction would overdraw your account, but you will not pay a fee.

For more information, check out this MSN article.

As always, continue checking on your personal finances frequently. You shouldn't depend on your bank to police your spending. Even though this new regulation will help you avoid unnecessary expenses, paying attention to your money will help you build good habits, and good habits will take you (and your wallet) far.

~Savvy Student

Credit Card Protection For Students

2010-09-02T11:41:00.003-04:00

As our government passes new legislation to help our economy recover, there is news all over the place about what changes are occurring, specifically in the world of Credit Cards and Debit Cards. You may have heard recently about Overdraft Protection, this went into effect at most banks back on August 15th. We will post more about this later. As for now, please check out an article from the San Francisco Chronicle her e that discusses the new Credit Card law. This law went into effect back in February, so please look for our other posts on the details of this law.

If you like this article please let us know. If you have ideas for other posts we would love to hear them.

Thanks,

Savvy Student

More Student Deals

2010-08-31T10:14:00.000-04:00

We're preparing for a brand new school year and while picking classes, buying books and outfitting dorm rooms are undoubtedly time consuming, you should start thinking about all of the things you'd like to do or try during your time at Brandeis. There's never a shortage of cultural events and restaurants to try in Boston and in the Greater Boston area, so it's important to know where the best student deals are to maximize those precious "poor college student" funds. That's where Savvy Student comes in.

1) Cheap Thrills Boston

Every day blogger Rob V. updates with events and happenings that are either free or under $10. Bookmark Cheap Thrills and check it around noon every day (Rob only posts events on the same day).

2) 15% off at Eastern Mountain Sports (there's a location close to the shuttle stop in Harvard Square)

3) 10% off at JP Licks (locations in Harvard Square, Davis Square and on Newbury Street)

4) Harvard University has an online guide to cheap arts & entertainment events in the city here.

5) Get 10% off with student ID at J. Crew!

We'll continue updating with more affordable fun throughout the school year. Enjoy!

Savvy Student

An Oldie but a Goodie: Buying Books Without Breaking the Bank

2010-08-27T10:31:00.001-04:00

The beginning of a new semester arrives in a flurry of setting up dorm rooms, catching-up with friends and preparing for classes. And in all this preparation, students must face the burden and expense of buying their course textbooks. All students know the harsh feeling of sticker shock as they watch their total climb higher and higher out of the realm of affordability. Yet as painful as the buying process can be, receiving 10% of the cost of all those books back when selling is even more defeating.

So, with the acknowledgment that textbooks are a vital part of your educational experience, what can students do to ease the burden?

Buying Textbooks:

While the campus bookstore may be the most convenient and fastest way to acquire all of the books you need for the semester, you may save money by doing a little digging first.

1. Buy Books Online-

There are many online companies that sell textbooks. E-bay, half.com and Amazon are all obvious choices, but there are many other smaller companies that offer good deals. It's best to start looking as early as you can to compare prices. Of course, you should also try to buy early to ensure that your books arrive in time for your first class.

2. E-books-

This option can be less expensive than purchasing paper books. E-books can be read on a personal computer, and it is sometimes easier to carry around one laptop over several heavy textbooks. However, there are a couple things to consider when buying an e-book. Some textbooks are not available in electronic format. Also, you must have a computer and if the book is needed in a class where the professor forbids laptops, you could be unprepared.

3. Borrow or Buy from a Friend or Split the Cost of a Textbook-

Ask around with the people you know who may already have the textbook you need. See if they would be willing to lend it to you or sell it for a low price. You often get the best bargain for books by making a deal with another student.

Another option is splitting the cost of a course text with another student taking the class. Of course, this requires greater coordination and cooperation between the students sharing the book. It also may not be practical for classes with heavy emphasis on the reading material.

4. Library Reserves

Often, Professors will put required texts on reserve at the library. If you are willing to hike over, you can borrow the book for two hours at a time. With this option, you get the textbook for free. However, it requires greater planning on your part to make sure you get to the library early and allow for the possibility that another student may have already borrowed the book.

5. If all else fails, or after considering your options and you feel as if buying at the university bookstore is best for you- buy used. Some "used" books come at significantly lower prices than its' "new" counterparts.

Some other things to consider:

- Discuss with your Professor the possibility of scanning the necessary portion of a textbook onto LATTE instead of requiring students to buy the entire book.
- Ask your Professor if sharing a secondary text is appropriate.
- Ask your Professor what older editions of the text are usable for the course.

Selling Textbooks:

1. Sell Online-

You can often get more money back for your textbooks by selling them online if you price them competitively. There are a couple of online options. First, you can sell to an online company like Barnes and Noble Textbook Buyback, which will pay you a greater percentage of your textbook than the bookstore usually would. Second, you can sell online directly to a buyer through web-sites like Amazon and half.com. However, both of those companies take a small cut of your profit (usually around 15%). You must also ship the book and wait for payment while the bookstore provides instant gratification.

To sell a textbook online without facing a cut in your profit, post your wares on craiglist.

2. MyBrandeis-

The MyBrandeis forums are a great place to sell textbooks because the students viewing your ad are Brandeis students who may take the same course with the same required reading. It is often easy to meet up with the student for the swap because you will both be on campus at the beginning of the semester.

3. Sell by Word of Mouth or Post Ads-

Ask your friends if they will be taking the course that you have the textbook for, or if they know someone that will need it. You can also post fliers around campus advertising the textbooks you will be selling, and at what price.

4. Second-Hand Book Shops-

What to do with all of those novels you bought for Brit Lit? Well, second hand bookstores may buy them! Of course, the point of selling your books is to make money and the point of a second hand bookshop is to sell cheap books, so they may not pay you top dollar. However, if the campus bookstore won't pay you anything, it is a better deal.

5. Donate to libraries or charities

Some donations are tax exempt! That's another way to save money.

6. Of course, if you're too lazy to list your books online or lug them to a bookshop farther away, the campus bookstore will pay you for many of them. The buyback quote tends to be up to 50% of the sticker price assuming the book will be used the following semester. Be sure to bring your books in early because if the book is being used again, the bookstore may only buy that book until it has enough for enrollment. The bookstore may also use things like Brandeis and national demand to price books.

You can save on books without sacrificing your educational experience. To make sure you are getting the best deal, compare options and do the legwork yourself.

Welcome Back,
Savvy Student

Consumer Protection

2010-08-17T12:18:00.002-04:00

At Savvy Student, we always do our best to bring you the most up to date news as it pertains to the world of personal finance. That being said, we would like to introduce the recently created Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection created under the Financial reform Law signed by President Obama back in July. The agency will have the authority to rewrite the rules regarding mortgages, credit cards, and loans and will be responsible for ensuring that firms adhere to these rules. The hope is to prevent consumers from being taken advantage of by firms that dole out high interest loans to individuals and families without the means to repay. The agency will also ensure that credit card holders are protected from arbitrary rate increases and exorbitant fees.

You can find a detailed description of the new agency here (and the full bill here), but we have highlighted some of the most relevant points (also from the source provided).

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau intends to:

Apply to “consumer financial products or services.” These are understood to include financial products or services that are to be used primarily for personal, family or household purposes.

Address all forms of credit, deposit, and payment products and services offered to consumers. It can also address related products and services such as prepaid debit cards, loan servicing, debt collection, and debt-related services.

Have the power to determine that products, features, or practices are unfair, deceptive, abusive or unsustainable. Its powers should include banning, restricting, or imposing conditions on practices, products or features, creating product standards, and requiring special monitoring, reporting and impact review of certain products, features or practices.

Require that all disclosures are clear, simple and concise.

Take a lead role in educating consumers about all credit matters. Review and streamline existing financial literacy programs.

Test disclosures regularly to see if they are clear and reasonable.

Have a five-member board - Four appointed by the President, and subject to confirmation by the Senate and the fifth is the Director of the National Bank Supervisor.

Provide a unified mortgage disclosure.

Require credit card companies to provide calculators that give payoff terms under different circumstances (i.e., only making minimum payments or paying off in only a year).

Require credit card issuers to offer "plain vanilla" credit cards in addition to other, more complex products for consumers who want basic cards.

Review mandatory arbitration clauses in consumer financial contracts to assess fairness. If needed, develop standards for fair dispute resolution or ban mandatory arbitration clauses in certain products (such as mortgages).

Have jurisdiction over debt collectors and debt buyers.

Many of these new rules are applicable to college students. Educating consumers about credit, ensuring that terms for loans and credit cards are clear and generally testing disclosures to ensure they are reasonable will greatly benefit the college-aged consumer. The point of all of this is to demystify the field of personal finance and make it more approachable for non-professionals.

Make sure you check out the resources we provided for more information. We’ll keep you updated as the agency begins its work.

Thanks,

Savvy Student

More Ways to Track Spending

2010-07-28T12:19:00.000-04:00

We love nifty gadgets and programs that help us with the task of tracking expenses, especially when they're free. We've posted some budget worksheets before, but the cornerstone of personal finance is tracking your expenses as you go. If you don't track your expenses, you'll never be able to create a budget that will accurately represent your spending.

Angela from thecouponproject.com made her expense tracking spreadsheet available for free! Check it out here (click on the link in the upper left). Be sure to save your own copy to your hard drive before you make any changes. Not only will you be able to track what you're buying, but you will also be able to see how much you're saving by taking advantage of discounts and coupons. The best thing about this software is that is does all of the math for you! No need to fiddle with your calculator-- just input your purchases and watch where your money is going.

Also, be sure to check out some of Angela's other features, like how to score amazing deals at Rite Aid and Walgreens.

Here's another great link with programs to manage spending, and even information on "financial groups" that allow you to compare shopping interests with people, all while tracking your goals: http://www.brokegradstudent.com/6-cool-ways-to-track-your-expenses-online/.

So remember, with so many different ways to monitor your spending and manage your budget, you should always be able to keep track of your money.

Thanks,

Savvy Student

Getting Ready For Brandeis...

2010-07-22T10:20:00.000-04:00

Summer is an exciting and stressful time for incoming first years, jam packed with shopping for dorm room decor and school supplies, registering for classes, communicating with new roommates and finding peers to connect with on Facebook. But what is often ignored are those tasks that relate to being independent and away from home for the first time. Knowing where the local banks are and what you’ll need to open an account, familiarizing yourself with public transportation options, and learning where amenities are in your college town should be done ahead of time to make the transition as smooth as possible. Over the next month we’ll be posting about each of these things as a part of our “Getting Ready for Brandeis” series. This time, check out our directory of local banks and credit unions (in no particular order).

Bank of America
800 Main Street, Waltham, MA
781-642-7254 (ATM located in the Gosman Sports Complex)

Citizen’s Bank
716 Main Street, Waltham, MA
781-647-8310 (ATM located in the Shapiro Campus Center)

Sovereign Bank
1 Moody Street, Waltham, MA
781-529-9001 (ATM located in the USDAN Student Center)

Danvers Bank
775 Main Street, Waltham, MA
781-891-1390

TD Bank
305 2nd Avenue, Waltham, MA
781-466-8105

RTN Federal Credit Union
600 Main Street, Waltham, MA
781-647-0848

Watertown Savings Bank
6 Lexington Street, Waltham, MA
617-928-9000

Many of these options are national branches, so be sure to visit the website for the bank you’re thinking about using to check out account options. If the bank is a local credit union, you can always give them a call at the number listed to find out if they have an account that will work for you. Always ask about student checking and savings accounts-- these tend to have few or no fees attached.

Stay tuned for more tips!
Savvy Student

Cheap Summer Fun - Free/Discounted Concerts

2010-07-15T09:36:00.006-04:00

We have to fight for our right to party, people. Of course, the fight isn't so difficult when everywhere you turn there are free music festivals of sorts. It seems no matter which music genres you're interested in, you can find somewhere cheap to rock your socks off just around the corner. You could even pick something that's less your passion and more of an excellent reason to laugh with friends.

For example, I am not the world's biggest Eddie Money fan (get it? Money and Savvy Student?). I'm not sure you could even call me a casual fan of Eddie Money. However, I do know his top three greatest hits - as any 80s lover should. If you're in the dark on who the heck Mr. Money is, I bet you've still heard these: Take Me Home Tonight, Two Tickets to Paradise, and Baby Hold On. If you still have no idea, just Google. Mr. Money happens to be giving a free concert this Saturday, July 17th at the Hatch Shell on the Esplanade, and I have every intention of attending. There's nothing like rocking out to awesomely ridiculous 80s tunes with a handful of friends, out in the fresh air.

You can simply Google events in your area, but you may wish to narrow your search by looking at nearby venues you've heard of or fairs and festivals usually in your area during the summer. State Fairs often host free concerts, and if you're going to the fair anyway, why not take advantage? Also check with your favorite (non-satellite) radio station to see if they have free or discounted tickets available for upcoming events. At the festivals themselves, be sure to check with each vendor for discounts. I once scored two free tickets to the local Six Flags with this technique, from Time Warner Cable. Since a friend and I spent the day there for free, we could afford to treat ourselves to a concert there that night. (Day at a theme park = 5 flags. Day at a theme park chased by a concert that evening = 6 flags. More flags, more fun).

If your shindig is a bit of a drive, you could always look for local campgrounds to spend the night at afterward - a much cheaper alternative to hotels. You can find state campgrounds for as cheap as $10 per night versus more main stream parks that could cost upwards of $70 and we all know hotels can cost more that $100 per night, so that is a huge savings.

Be sure to look for local blogs with listings of cheap events. Boston's example: Cheap Thrills Boston.

Feel free to let us know about upcoming free events you’ve heard about at sfs@brandeis.edu, and we’ll post your suggestions here.

As always, Thanks!

Savvy Student

Cheap Summer Fun Series

2010-06-30T10:08:00.003-04:00

Ahoy there, readers! Savvy Student would like to introduce our new "Cheap Summer Fun" series. Come here for great summer ideas that won't require damage to your piggy bank. This week, we're bringing you Reading at the Beach!

I know, I know, you're thinking - "Everyone knows about reading at the beach, it's not a secret club." However, we're bringing you great, cheap book finds and information on the beautiful beaches of Massachusetts. Our goal as Savvy Student is to help make your beach plans easy and stress free - giving you more time to relax.

Libraries are, of course, a great option for finding a good book - but most people prefer to know what they're looking for, rather than navigate each isle or consult a card catalog . Below are some great book review sites, as well as a few recommendations from the people behind Savvy Student.

House of Leaves by Mark Z. Danielewski
Shelter Me by Juliette Fay
Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison
House Rules by Jodi Picoult
Anything by James Baldwin (Giovanni's Room is a good example)
The Vampire Chronicles by Ann Rice (the original vampire series, 10 novels)
Freakonomics by Levitt & Dubner (followed by Superfreakonomics)
Something Borrowed or Something Blue by Emily Giffin
Game Change by Heilemann & Halperin
Lies My Teacher Told Me by Loewen
The Kite Runner by Hosseini
The Time Traveler's Wife by Niffenegger

Book Review Sites:
The Week - http://theweek.com/topic/sub_section/arts_life/books
NY Times - http://www.nytimes.com/pages/books/
San Francisco Chronicle - http://www.sfgate.com/books/

Other than libraries, second-hand shops are a great alternative for finding stacks upon stacks of cheap reads. One great option close to Brandeis is Diskovery in Brighton. We have provided their address below for your convenience.

Diskovery
569 Washington St
(between Bigelow St & Brackett St)
Brighton, MA 02135
(617) 787-2640
*If you're allergic to cats, beware - two friendly felines inhabit this local gem!

Just Google "secondhand bookstores" to find one in your area.

If you are tapped out for funds there are other great ways to get books. Friends are your number one resource. Not only can you borrow books from them, but they would be able to give you personal recommendations too. And, if your friends are away from Brandeis for the summer you can always resort to using your trusty PC or Mac and visit online libraries at educhoices.org or other sites such as ReadPrint.com.

Now for the best part - the beaches! Publicly owned land is usually well taken care of, and only a few bucks to get into for the day, if not free. Sure, there are totally free and enjoyable grassy knolls and parks everywhere - but sometimes you just want to feel the sand between your toes! Savvy Student recommends looking for nearby State Parks. These are usually cheaper and less crowded than National Parks or well-known ocean beaches. Below are some great finds in Massachusetts.

Picnicking:
http://www.mass.gov/dcr/recreate/picnic.htm

Swimming:
http://www.mass.gov/dcr/recreate/swimming.htm

If you have a weekend on your hands, try camping at one of these parks for about $12/night (depending on the park) to maximize your beach time! This is especially nice for those of us who live more than an hour from the nearest beach. Be sure to search for the parks in your area, and don't be afraid to cross state lines - MA parks, for instance, tend to be less expensive than NH parks. Savvy Student is working on a camping blog, to be posted soon, so be sure to look for it!

Where are your favorite beaches or summer reading and relaxing spots? Let us know, so we can include them in future posts.

Sincerely,

Savvy Student

Food For Thought

2010-06-23T11:07:00.001-04:00

In our search for tips and tricks to help save you money we came across the USDA Fact Sheet for College Students. Please visit their website here to learn about safe food handling. Although this may not seem like it fits in with personal finance- it does! By keeping your food fresh, it will last longer and ultimately save you money.

Also, as a college student it can be quite difficult to plan meals out in advance and buying groceries can be a budget buster. Instead of buying food that will ultimately go to waste we found a post on EHow with suggestions on what to buy in order to keep your wallet in check. If you are interested in the article follow this link.

College can be challenging enough without the burden of cooking and grocery shopping. Food is a necessity and because of that, it is easy to discount how much money goes to waste when food is discarded. Even if you are on a meal plan and don't spend money on food waste can still occur from stale pieces of pizza to a half eaten plate of food at the dining hall. At Ohio State, College Green the student run publication reports that students throw out at least $250,000 worth of food each year. That may not seem like it directly impacts you, but expenses like these incurred by a university can potentially impact the bottom line.

So, the next time you are eating out or at the grocery store think about what you will eat and what your budget for food truly is.

To all our Frugal Foodies, let us know what you think. Did you find this information helpful?

Savvy Student

Lower Loans and Less Debt, Myth or Reality?

2010-06-15T09:51:00.004-04:00

For many, “student loans” are scary; they are synonymous with multiple years of having no money, sending your entire paycheck to your lender, and working just to repay your college expenses.

Recent changes by the Department of Education to the federal loan programs are designed to benefit all students. These changes allow the Department of Education to maintain more control over federally backed student loans, while Sallie Mae and other lenders will be confined largely to servicing loans held by the government and collecting on defaulted loans.

These changes will eliminate fees paid to private banks acting as intermediaries in providing loans to college students, freeing funds to expand the Pell Grant program and help low income students (allowing a maximum grant of $5,975 by 2017).

Further changes have been made to help borrowers by expanding the repayment options, and allowing some borrowers to qualify for partial loan forgiveness for working in particular jobs. For complete details of Stafford Loan Entrance Counseling, Promissory Note signing, Loan Repayment and Public Service Loan Forgiveness, visit www.studentloans.gov. Parents may also apply for A Parent PLUS loan at this site as well.

As a result of completing the Financial Aid process, a student may also be awarded a Federal Perkins Loan. Very different from a Federal Stafford Loan, this loan has only 1 repayment plan—10 years with monthly minimum payments of $40 and a fixed, 5% interest rate. If this loan is awarded, a student will be sent instructions to do additional Entrance Counseling and sign a second Master Promissory Note. This loan also has some great benefits, including up to 100% loan forgiveness for borrowers working in specific fields (including some teachers, nurses, law enforcement or corrections officers, firefighters, medical technicians, librarians, those working with high-risk children, and others). Visit http://www.campuspartners.com/documents/4884FactSheet.pdf for more information regarding this loan.*

*this program may be experiencing several changes over the next few years.

Families interested in private loans should research their options carefully, and consider which loan is right for them. Information about private loans can be found at www.borrowsmart.com or
www.studentlendinganalytics.com. Each private loan has its own origination fees, interest rates and repayment options.

Student loans are designed to help borrowers reach career goals without paying for their education up-front. And while their on-time repayment is mandatory, lenders can be very helpful during the sometimes-difficult repayment period.

Happy borrowing! Savvy Student :)

Money Management and more...

2010-06-09T10:00:00.000-04:00

Budgets, credit cards, savings accounts, who has time to read through all of the fine print much less understand the terms and conditions? It is very understandable, yet unfortunate that money management is so difficult. Schools do not place much importance on personal finance, rather it is thought to be common sense or something our parents pass along. However, how can knowledge about a topic be passed along when it is rarely understood?

Savvy Student is here to connect you to materials and information about money management, in the hopes of making the process that much easier. In digging for information we have come across a great financial guide, Money Talks, which comes to us from the Office of Mayor, Thomas M. Menino in conjunction with the Office of Consumer Affairs and Licensing.

The guide, which is meant for teens, should be referenced by anyone not well informed about money management. We hope you will access the guide from the link above to learn about credit scores and credit cards, checking/savings accounts, as well as consumer tips on false advertising, Bait and Switch tactics and car buying.

Let us know what you think,

Savvy Student

Credit Cards: Can You Handle Them?

2010-06-04T10:32:00.000-04:00

As you go through life you experience many different rites of passage. At sixteen you can drive, at eighteen you can vote and of course at 21 you can drink (legally). Establishing credit and having a credit card also seem to fall into this category as passageways to adulthood. Having a credit history allows you to one day buy a car or even a house.

Getting a credit card, however, seems almost too easy and too often consumers are overwhelmed by their choices so they don't do enough research to select the most appropriate card. As a consumer, you should shop around for the best credit card or loan like you would shop for any important purchase, but this is easier said than done. Discover, Chase, Bank Of America, American Express, Capitol One, Visa and Mastercard all have different benefits and this list does not even include all of the credits that are available to consumers. Once you select a credit card or even a loan, such as a student loan it is very easy to get confused by the rates and terms of the card. All the fine print may be overwhelming to someone new to the world of credit and the terminology is not so easy to decipher. Because of this, it is unfortunate, but true that you can easily damage your credit thus impacting future purchases such as a car or home.

To prevent this from happening, we have found a great resource for you from studentloanintelligence.com. They have created the Student Loan Buying Guide which is a publication of Greentree Gazette Corporation. The guide is filled with "Shopping Tips" for students and families looking for their first loan or for ways to better manage their credit. Suggestions include asking questions about interest rates and rate shopping as well as tips for receiving tax benefits as a student loan borrower.

The Student Loan Buying Guide is full of great articles and useful information. Please check it and let us know what you think. Did you find the articles helpful?

Savvy Student

Tricking Yourself Into Saving

2010-06-02T13:55:00.005-04:00

We know some of you study psychology—so how about some mind tricks that will help you learn to save your money?

The next time you go shopping with a budget (and you should certainly have a budget), keep track of how much you fall under. For example, if you go grocery shopping with coupons (and you should definitely use coupons), check out the section of your receipt with the amount you saved listed. Deposit this amount into a savings account as soon as you get home. Trick yourself into thinking that the amount you saved from taking advantage of sales and using coupons is like a payment to yourself.

Another excellent money trick involves treating any extra or surprise income as separate from your budget or your spending plan. For example: in addition to your income, your grandmother sends you a $25 check as a gift. You weren’t expecting this money, so pretend like it’s not even there by depositing it immediately into your savings and forgetting about it. This works especially well if you open a savings account separate from the one tied to your checking account—you’ll put the money there so quickly that it won’t have a chance to spark dreams of new shoes or dinner out. You’ll remember it when you absolutely need it and it’ll even have accrued some interest!

These ideas are all about avoiding those moments between acquiring your cash and spending it—those exciting minutes during which you imagine all of the wonderful things you can buy and do with the extra money. Get yourself into the habit of putting your money away and forgetting about it. The time will come when you will need the money and you’ll remember it then.

Happy saving,

Savvy Student

Personal Finance Resources

2010-05-26T13:17:00.004-04:00

We've covered a great deal of material on the blog so far but there will always be more questions to answer. As such, today's post will highlight those resources that will help you learn more about personal finance, the job market, and all things money related.

Remember the Mint software we blogged about a few months ago? Mint has a new feature called "Personal Finance Questions and Answers." Check out the link for some FAQs about money. You can even put your savvy to good use and answer some questions from others!

Need some help deciding on a career path? Check out Yahoo's list of the best and worst paying jobs here.

If you are on the job hunt and interested in moving, there is an excellent article on up-and-coming US cities. Check out Kiplinger's list to see which cities are in an economic upswing.

Keep checking the blog for more links to financial resources!

Post-College Personal Finance Refresher

2010-05-24T10:38:00.000-04:00

Commencement is this Sunday and for graduating seniors, Monday will be the first foray into post-college adulthood. MSN Money posted a concise and helpful article for 20-something college grads that shouldn't be missed. Check it out here.

Congratulations to all of you soon-to-be Brandeis graduates!

Buying in Bulk Without the Membership Costs

2010-05-19T10:00:00.000-04:00

You've heard that buying food and other items in bulk saves money, but you're probably stuck on how to get to a big warehouse store without a car. Even if you own or rent a car, you'll still have to pay a hefty membership fee to reap the benefits of bulk pricing. Luckily you can still take advantage of bulk pricing on certain products without paying fees, and you can even get your purchases shipped to you for free!

Though you won't be able to buy ten pounds of meat, Amazon.com offers competitive prices on things like soap, cleaning products, and toiletries in larger quantities than you will find in your local grocery or drug store. The best part is that shipping is free on many products sold by Amazon when you buy $25 worth of products!

It may seem expensive to spend $11.99 on an 8-pack of Venus razors upfront, but not when you consider the number of razors you'd end up buying eventually. If you have the money to pay for products in bulk with lower unit prices, the initial purchase is always worth it.

Search for your brand of deodorant, toothpaste, shampoo, detergent, and any other product you buy frequently, and see the amount of time and money you'll save buy buying a multi-pack up front. Remember to calculate the cost of transportation to and from the store as an added savings. Even if you'd rather shop in a store, the same rule applies: when something you buy on a regular basis goes on sale, stock up! You'll be happy you did when you finish a bar of deodorant and don't have time to make it to the drugstore to buy a new one before class. No one likes a smelly student, but everyone loves a savvy student.

Graduates: Where do you go now?

2010-05-06T11:00:00.003-04:00

As graduation nears, many of you are eager to become independent. These days, however, getting a job and an apartment may not be as easy as it once was. But, rest assured you are not alone. The concerns are very common, so we have some suggestions on how best to transition into the "real world".

One possibility is to head back home. If you are moving home, here are a few tactics to make the most of your time back home:

Pay rent: Even if it's just a little, paying rent to your parents will not only demonstrate your appreciation of their helping you out while you get set to live on your own, it also gets you in the habit of paying rent. It's good to have a part time job while you perform your job search, just so you can save a little and have cash on hand for things you need. And if you want to kick in for utilities, food or cable, feel free to do that as well.
Get ready to compromise: You can't expect to be totally free to do whatever you want to do when moving back in with your parents, even if it's only for a short time. Respect their rules and understand that you'll be giving up some of your independence while at home-it may serve as extra motivation to find that job, start that business and get out on your own.
Be an adult: It's tempting for some parents to want to take care of their children who move in after graduation-doing their laundry, cooking their meals, etc. Don't let them! Take care of these things yourself even while living under their roof, because it's good preparation for when you're living on your own. Plus letting parents baby you can become a hard habit to break and remove the motivation to get your own place.
Set a date to leave: This isn't to say that you'll wear out your welcome at home, but it always helps to motivate you to find a job and a place of your own if you have a date in mind that you'd like to achieve these goals. That said, you don't need to publicize this date to friends and family. Keeping it to yourself could allow you the opportunity to move it should things not work out as hoped.

If you have not yet found a job, do not fret. There is still time. Savvy Student thinks you should...

Look for internships: They're a great way to get experience in your field-or even a foot in the door at a company you'd like to work for. Check with Hiatt for any internship programs they have set up with companies-but don't be afraid to find one online through a reputable site.
Search entry-level job sites:There are a host of job sites and boards online that specialize in entry level positions across many industries. Check them out, register your profile and check back often, because you never know who might be looking to fill a position next.
Network, network, network: You may not realize it, but you have a valuable network of people who can help. Your professors, your parents, and your friends at Brandeis can all play a big role in finding employment. Check around and see who can help you find the job you're looking for-you never know until you ask.

Good Luck and Congratulations- You did it!
Savvy Student

Budgeting Tips and Tricks

2010-05-03T10:00:00.000-04:00

Some people prefer to keep track of their expenditures by creating an informal "spending plan", while others like to see exactly where each dollar is going by using budget worksheets in Excel or services available online. We want you to start utilizing one or more of these strategies early so that budgeting and conscious spending become habits, but we recognize that each individual has different needs and wants and thus very different spending habits. Here's an overview of some of your options:

1) Create a "spending plan."
Spending plans provide more flexibility. Instead of creating an itemized worksheet with planned expenditures, you would decide exactly how much of your monthly income you can spend. For example, if you have $500/month to spend on all of your needs and wants, and you drops $300 on a video game system, you are still technically within your spending plan. However, the remaining $200 must be stretched in order to pay for groceries, entertainment, bills, clothing, and other surprise costs. If you do keep a spending plan, ensure that your needs are prioritized before you spend. This option is beneficial to those who do not have expected expenditures, but instead encounter surprise costs or changes in the amounts of their expenditures each month. Spending plans can become troublesome if you are not mindful of where your money should be going.

2) Use a customizable budget worksheet.
If you've looked into printing budget worksheets before, you've probably noticed that many of them contain categories that are not necessarily applicable to the typical college student or recent graduate. You should still plan to use a budget worksheet, however, it is best to find one that can be customized to fit your needs. A worksheet you can open in Microsoft Office, Open Office, or Mac client works well and we prefer Vertex42.com's Customizable Excel Budget Worksheet. If you find categories that do not apply to you, simply click on the row number (hold Ctrl to select more than one), then select to hide those rows.

3) Load up gift cards with your budgeted amount for particular expenditures.
If you plan to spend $150 per month on groceries, you could purchase a gift card from your favorite supermarket or grocer for that amount on your first trip. This technique is useful to those who would rather not keep tabs on their finances with every expenditure. If you want to budget yourself $20 per month for going to your favorite coffee shop, you can purchase a gift card as well. Then, when you run out of money on the card, do not let yourself spend your cash! This technique will keep you within your budget and you'll rest assured knowing that money is already set aside for your needs. Be sure to keep reloading the same card, however. Businesses make a ton of money off of the pennies left on used gift cards and you can always roll that $0.11 over to the next month.

4) Use an online spending tracker.
Many banks that offer online banking will create statistics of your spending in graphs. The problem with these, however, is that some of your purchases with your debit card are not recorded in the proper category. For example, after loading $10 onto my Charlie Card, my bank categorized the spending as "Food/Dining" because the entry was titled "Subway". I was not able to edit the category, so my spending graph was not completely accurate. Mint.com partners with banks to grant them secure access to your accounts, and they not only compile more comprehensive data, but there is also a feature to edit categories. Useful, right? Mint is great when used in conjunction with a spending plan and/or a budget worksheet.

Happy budgeting,

Savvy Student

Choosing the Right Card...

2010-04-28T10:40:00.003-04:00

Credit card offers are all around as noted by television commercials, radio ads and the like. Even as you check out at your favorite store, I am certain you are asked at least once if you would like to "save 10% by opening an account." If you are new to the world of credit, choosing which card best fits your needs can be a little overwhelming. So, of course Savvy Student is here to help.

Not all credit cards are bad. Some offer introductory rates, low interest rates, no annual fees or even rewards such as free airfare or money back. Which card to choose depends on the individual. Cards with low interest rates work best for consumers that carry a balance month to month. Credit card companies that offer rewards are well suited for those that use their card frequently or often enough to take advantage of the rewards being offered.

At Savvy Student, we've found two reputable websites that helps to compare the main components of individual credit cards, thus helping you to select the right option to meet your needs. Please click here to visit CreditCards.com or here to visit CreditCardGuide.com.

As always, please let us know if these websites were helpful to you.

Thanks,

Savvy Student

Psst, Incoming Students!

2010-04-26T10:00:00.007-04:00

April 12th was an exciting day for the whole campus as over 1500 admitted students and their families came to visit Brandeis.

Our office was buzzing with recently admitted first years, making the atmosphere full of excitement and festivity. Our staff met with more than 100 students, providing them with information and assistance on their financial aid awards.

At Brandeis, over 70% of our student body receives financial assistance from the university. Because of this we are determined to do our best in providing support and enabling families to afford a high quality education for their students.

If you are one of those incoming freshmen that we will see around campus this fall, then we have some advice for you. Try to enjoy the last few weeks of your senior year because before you know it, you will be on-campus once again- but this time as a student, not a tourist. And, since the summer before your first year in college is so important we have a few ideas on how to spend your time.

- Money matters. Even if you are a student receiving financial aid you still might want to earn something extra for unexpected outings with your new friends, books, new clothes and dorm supplies.... Getting a summer job is perhaps one of the most common ways to spend your time before college. You will make some cash and add another bullet point to your resume.

- Speaking about dorm supplies... Though moving in is still quite far away it is a good time to start planning ahead. You do not necessarily have to spend money on purchasing a new desk lamp, a fancy garbage bin or more hangers. Things you are using at home can be used with equal success at college. If you are considering purchasing a mini-fridge or a microwave, do not rush and buy it on campus. First, ask your extended family if anyone has an old microwave to donate to you, then check deals online. Surely you will find something!

-Familiarize yourself with the second-hand book stores online such as www.halfprice.com. You might not know what classes you will be taking in the fall, but this will give you an idea of the potential expenses.

- Do not throw away any school supplies left over from your high school years. You can still make use of those in college and save some money on purchasing new notebooks!

Enjoy the summer and we will see you in the fall!

Savvy Student

Scholarships for the Unique

2010-04-21T13:02:00.002-04:00

More and more scholarship opportunities are becoming available for students with unique interests, not just the ability to write a solid essay. In fact, the Wall Street Journal online published an article on scholarship awards available through Fastweb.com. that target specific students in a very unique way. Promote vegetarianism or design a prom dress and you might be eligible to receive one of the scholarships mentioned in the article. If you are not too much into either of the above, but your last name starts with a "Z," you might still qualify for a private scholarship.

If you want to read more from the Wall Street Journal check out their article here.

Though Brandeis does not necessarily offer scholarships for exceptionally tall people or vegans there is a variety of opportunities available for students through private scholarship programs. You may access the fastweb.com scholarship site or visit the Office of Student Financial Services website (www.brandeis. edu/sfs) for a list of outside financial resources.

Happy hunting,

Savvy Student

How to Maximize Your Hiring Eligiblity

2010-04-15T10:00:00.001-04:00

It's that time of the year. School is almost out and everyone is in need of something to do this summer. Savvy Student wants to teach you how to get that dream job or internship. Follow these steps while at Brandeis and you'll have employers at your doorstep.

1. Form relationships with professors and your school’s faculty. Not only will it give you experience in communicating with a different generation but it will enable you to establish connections and gain insight with intelligent professors and staff members who are there to help you.

2. Participate! Pick clubs or activities that you are serious about, one's that parallel your academic interests. By becoming involved with various organizations you are broadening your horizons and heightening your awareness. If you join an organization early on you will gain knowledge and experience that could lead to future opportunities.

3. See the sights and learn the history behind your college or town. This will help you gain a better perspective for the location and area businesses making you more marketable. You may even seek out an internship along the way.

5. Consistency! Involvement in any activity for an extended period of time is invaluable, and shows employers you are capable of sticking with a particular endeavor for a long period of time.

6. Keep a journal to document your progress and start it early. This way you will be able to see physical proof of your development, beyond just academics. Notifying employers of the growth attained through certain experiences is a definite plus.

7. Employers want well rounded individuals; take a wide array of classes that not only peak your interest, but help you understand how the world works.

8. Read blogs! (Savvy Student--of course!) Be aware of current events and gain a better perspective on worldly issues. Being aware of current trends will aid in your ability to deal with change and help you ace an interview session.

9. Make an excellent resume. Hiatt has wonderful resources on their website. Visit brandeis.edu/hiatt.

10. Manage a budget so that you aren’t hindered from partaking in beneficial activities because you’ve spent money mindlessly.

11. Be able to tell someone about yourself and how you have grown individually through your time in college and list specific experiences that have helped shape you.

12. Don’t sweat the small stuff. As long as you focus on the bigger picture of graduation and beyond, you will have a larger perspective that employers will appreciate.

13. Get your daily dose of Savvy Student. Not only do we provide you with financial aid information and budgeting strategies, we are also here to answer any question you have.

Thanks,
Savvy Student