By Evginya Lautt
Graphic By Maya Uribe
Happy Hour: More Than Just Drinks
Many people do not take advantage of Happy Hour and end up overpaying when dining out. During certain times of the day, some restaurants offer discounts on both food and drinks. In the end, you can save a lot of money while still enjoying the experience of eating out.
Avoid Minimum Payments on Credit Cards
If you have a credit card, it is very important that you read this. If you are only paying the minimum amount, you are falling into a trap set by credit card companies. What do I mean by this? It is a tactic used by banks to make more money, as paying the minimum prolongs the time it takes to pay off your balance. Try to pay more than the minimum or ideally pay off your balance in full each month. Interest can quickly become a source of debt if not managed carefully.
Don’t Use Credit Cards Unless You Have the Cash
Credit cards can be a double-edged sword—helpful but also risky when it comes to debt. Before making a purchase, ensure you do not use credit cards unless you have the cash to cover it. This means if you do not have the funds in your account, do not buy the item.
Shop Around for the Best Deals
When shopping, whether online or in-store, it is best to compare options. For electronics, textbooks, groceries and other purchases, look at different stores and websites to find the best prices. Store brands are often cheaper than name brands, which can help you save money. Also, check the price per ounce or unit to determine which product offers the best value.
Use Consumer Reports for Unbiased Reviews
Before buying anything, it is a good idea to check unbiased reviews, such as those on Consumer Reports. If you have a Camarillo Library card, you can access Consumer Reports for free.
Take Advantage of Student Discounts
Many places offer student discounts, including major brands like Apple, Samsung and Nike. Always ask if a student discount is available—it can save you a significant amount of money.
Use Public Transportation or Carpool
CI offers free bus transportation from the Camarillo train station, where parking is free. This can save you $200 per semester, which you can put toward something else you enjoy.
Buy Used or Rent Textbooks
Whenever possible, buy used textbooks to save money. While new books may look appealing, they are often much more expensive than used options.
Cook at Home Instead of Eating Out
The average American spends about $300 per month dining out, which adds up to $3,600 per year—money that could be used elsewhere. On campus, meals can be costly too. For example, a burger might cost $10, and a day’s worth of meals at the campus buffet–breakfast for $7, lunch for $9.25, and dinner for $11.25–could total $27.50 per day. If you eat on campus five days a week, that’s $137.50 per week, or $2,062.50 per semester.
Planning and preparing meals at home can save time, reduce the temptation to eat out and help you eat healthier. The money you save can be spent on other things that are important to you.
Attend Free Campus Events
At CI, there are free events like movie nights, yoga classes, painting sessions and more in the Bell Tower. Check the CI event calendar for the latest updates. Here are some upcoming events at CI:
- October 17th: Black Poetry Student Union, Dolphin Den, 7:00 PM
- October 22nd: Homecoming FSL Mugs and Ice Cream Floats
- October 23rd: Homecoming Outdoor Movie Night – Ghostbusters and Frozen Empires
