Save BIG on Textbooks!

       

 

As a College student, one of the first things that catches your attention is the dreadfully high cost of textbooks. Quickly we begin to reminisce on our high school days when our teachers used to hand us our textbooks the first day of class with the only clause of returning it at the end of the year. As we slowly drift back to reality we can’t help but to think of how we could possibly afford such an expensive textbook when we have 4 more to buy.

Fortunately, there are alternative options to purchasing textbooks from your school bookstore. We asked college students their sources for college textbooks and compiled a list for you*. This way you can get back to reminiscing on the good ol’ days.

1. Amazon- A great place to find new and used books, and also there is the option to rent and even sell your books back.
2. Chegg- Known for their great renting prices but is also a great place to buy new and used books. They also give you the option to sell them back.
3. Knet Books- Rent and also sell books back but no purchasing options.
4. Half (Ebay)- They have a large stock of books sold by many vendors. You have the option to buy, rent or sell.
5. Valore Books- A newer site where you can also buy, rent and sell your textbooks, with very competitive prices
6. Barnes & Nobles- Not only are they a great site but have many store front location. They also have the option to purchase new or used books, rent or sell.
7. Text Book Rush- Great site that has rental, purchasing and sell back options.
8. Alibris- A lesser known site but with great prices on used and new books with the option to rent and sell.
9. School Bulletin- Most schools have bulletins where students will post their book for sale. This a great way to meet students and buy books for good prices.
10. Borrow from a friend- Ask a friend, they might have the book that you can borrow or buy, if not, they may know someone who does.

Remember, we are called to be good stewards of our finances, that includes everything college related. So choose your textbook source wisely and enjoy the rest of your semester.

*Please be aware we are not affiliated or endorsed by any of these vendors.

Going Away vs. Staying Home

For every high school senior, one of the most important decisions they’ll face is deciding what college to attend. A big factor in that decision is whether or not they’ll go away or stay at home. There are good reasons for either choice which must be evaluated by  students and their families when preparing for college. Some of the most significant things to consider are:

• Money. This is arguably the largest determinant in the dorming versus commuting debate. In general, students and their families shell out almost $10,000 per year on room & board and other associated costs. Add that to an already expensive tuition rate and the costs add up very quickly.

• Independence. Many students consider independence extremely important, and college is usually the first time a teenager is granted extensive autonomy. Living away from mom and dad teaches students maturity and facilitates the transition from teenager to adult.

• Coping with change. Adjusting to college life is stressful enough, and moving away to unfamiliar territory can make the change much more challenging. Staying at home provides practical and emotional support for students, which may enable them to better cope with the transition.

• Missed opportunities. Living at home generally means less participation in campus activities. Commuter students often report feeling more disconnected from the school than do resident students. For students looking for a complete college experience, staying at home may make them feel like they’re missing out.

College is a new experience for everyone so it should be as rewarding as possible. Each student should consider these details so that they can make the decision that is best for them and their family.

Book holiday flights early – and try to get a direct flight

Tips for New College Students:

If you’re going to school relatively far from home, chances are that your first trip back will be for Thanksgiving. Reserve that flight as soon as you have a solid idea of when you’ll be free. If you wait until November (or the week before), you will pay dearly for procrastinating. A flight that might only be about $200 if purchased in advance will be several times more expensive if you get it too late. STICK TO DIRECT FLIGHTS. Due to typical holiday delays, the chances of missing your connecting flight is high. This may result in you have Thanksgiving with the airport snack shop attendant.