LIM College

1) Enroll in loyalty card programs at stores like CVS and Duane Reade. They offer so many benefits. I once got a $25 off coupon for CVS. I was so excited! Just make sure to check coupon expiration dates.

2) Always, and I mean ALWAYS, check your receipt. I worked behind a cash register for one of my internships. If you're ringing up a lot of things sometimes it's easy to accidentally charge someone twice for something. So always pay attention when they are ringing you up. And if something is supposed to be on sale and comes up full price, don't be afraid to point it out.

3) Skip those gym fees. Hello - we have a free gym that LIM offers us at the residence hall (even for those students who don't dorm-like me)! We also have extracurricular (free) activities, clubs, and free yoga classes. A gym membership in Manhattan can cost over $200 a month. In the summer, you can always take a run around your neighborhood or in Central Park with a friend and in the winter if you don't want to utilize the gym you can always grab a workout DVD. Amazon sells them for $5-10.

4) Buying textbooks can be really expensive. Make sure you do your research to see if you can buy a used one, or rent one before going and purchasing a brand-new one. Projects throughout the semester can also add up quickly. A Visual Merchandising instructor from LIM College told our class about a store that sells cheap supplies. It's called Jack's, and is located right near our 5th Avenue building on West 45th St. between 5th and 6th Avenues. You can pick up props, poster boards, school supplies and even some other great things at great prices. I recently discovered that they have a small food selection on their second floor - including Lean Cuisine meals for $2.99. That's a good price no matter where you are!