No One Talks About These Hidden College Costs
Hidden College Costs You Probably Should Prepare For
Now is the time that high school seniors are starting to prepare, plan and budget for college next year. They are starting to have an idea of tuition costs and housing costs. It is incredibly overwhelming thinking about how to afford college, and a lot don’t think to plan in other living expenses.. Don’t worry though, I am going to share some hidden costs of college that you can prepare for!
Books. This is probably one of the more expensive ones that you will have to deal with, but it all depends on your major and your professor. Unless otherwise stated by your professor, I highly recommend waiting until the first day to classes to buy your books. You might decide that the book isn’t necessary for class, or the professor might not require it. There are plenty of classes that require it for online homework that is due, but there are always those classes with a book that no one will end up reading. Great places to get discounted books are Amazon, Chegg, your college Facebook group or rent it if possible. Bookstores tend to raise the prices, so check online first.
Parking. Parking on campus is expensive. Parking passes can be as much as a couple hundred dollars and the parking ticket lady is always especially cruel when your meter runs out. Determine if a car is necessary for you. Before I had a car on campus, I would take the bus everywhere. My college even offered buses that took you to cities around the state, so I was always able to get home, if needed. Having a car is convenient, but you probably won’t use it as much as you think you will.
Lifestyle costs. Groceries, personal essentials, your inevitable coffee addiction, social activities and any other types of shopping can add up, so it is important to factor these costs into your budgeting for college. People with dining hall passes, be warned! I guarantee you will get sick of the dining hall by the end of the first month and want to eat out more than anything. Plus, having some money to go out and socialize with new people is nice too.
Clubs. Joining clubs is a really great way to meet people and it is a great way to network, but it isn’t always free. I didn’t know this going in, but most clubs have a fee. Fees usually aren’t too expensive, however, it can be off-putting when you want to join a club but don’t want to spend the $80 to join. I do highly recommend joining, if you can, but think about your personal goals and career goals and budget for clubs. There are some academic clubs still will accept your membership, you just won’t get all of the perks and networking experience that paying members get.
Greek Life. Going Greek can be a great way to meet people, but it is expensive. And you have to pay dues or else you can get in serious trouble. I didn’t join any Greek Life and I still found my best friends for life, so think about if it is a good move for you. I know people that absolutely loved their experience and I also know people who hated it. Don’t fall into pressure to join or not join because of something you heard. Choose what is right for you, and if you do join, make sure to budget for dues!
Electronic costs. Yes, you will need a functioning lap top for classes. At this point, it is expected to have one. Make sure you have a reliable computer for classes because nothing is worse or more expensive than having to go to the tech store to get your computer fixed every other week. Make sure you get a lap top that is durable and reliable. I used a MacBook Pro for all 4 years and never had any issues with tech problems, but do some research and see what you need for your major and make sure you get a laptop that will last.
New clothes. I am not just talking about rain boots and a nice winter coat for walking to class in bad weather (which I highly recommend). I am talking about business clothes. Every student should own professional attire. Before you know it, you will be attending career fairs, networking with other professionals, and going on internship and job interviews.
There are other costs that aren’t listed here such as study abroad, the infamous spring break trips, entertainment, gas money to get home and other silly costs, but these 8 costs are the big ones that people tend to forget. College is a great experience and there is so much to learn while there, but it is a giant dent in the wallet, so be sure to prepare and budget as much as you can!
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