By: Jarreau Freeman
Read all posts by Jarreau
I totally love shopping for college! I mean who does not love pushing a cart through Target and filling it with fluffy pillows, pink pock-a- doted sheets, a cute purple bed spread to match, lamps, computers, printers, and toiletries. Back to school shopping can be a blast. However, there is one thing that many freshman dread and that is buying books for their classes. Well, guess what? That can be fun and easy too! Here are some tips on how to buy your books in an easy and affordable way.
Buying books used is one of the best ways to purchase books. Don’t get me wrong buying them new is fine too. Trust me; I’m a sucker for a new book with the best of them. However, since college text books do run a bit on the pricey side, buying them second hand is an easy and affordable way to save some cash. And believe me that extra cash will come in handy when the monster in your stomach is screaming feed me at 1:00am and a trip to WaWa is needed ASAP; or when the gang decides to go to King of Prussia mall for an emergency shopping spree for the winter formal.
Here are some helpful WEBSITES that will offer you textbooks at an affordable price, and the great thing about it is, once you’re done with the text book you can always sell it back.
www.chc.edu keyword search: bookstore
By: Katie Harmon
Read all posts by Katie
It’s been a week since I moved back into my house from school, and I’m embarrassed to say I only just got around to unpacking and organizing all of my stuff! The packing process is always easier for me, but when it comes time to unpack everything and put it all in its place…ugh. It’s such a hassle, especially when you forget that you have to move back out at some point and bring too much junk for your own good. At least I learned my lesson and can share some tips with you guys to avoid getting too overwhelmed about moving out when the time comes. Bookmark this entry!
• Don’t pack too much. I over-think and pack things I think will come in handy, but end up never being used. Make a list of necessities versus everything else, and think about what you’ll definitely appreciate having with you.
• Bring boxes or plastic containers to help organize things. These can come in handy both in storing your stuff or hiding them away under your bed or in your closet until you need to pack everything back up again. I was lacking in this area and had to fill at least 5 tote bags with junk from my room.
• Save boxes or original containers. If you don’t bring boxes on your own, save the ones you get from care packages or new items you buy while at school.
• Invest in a hand-truck or cart of some sort. Rolling or pushing out boxes, refrigerators, and microwaves will be so much easier than having to carry them out!
• Use a suitcase for clothes. I don’t know if most people do this, but having a suitcase for your clothes frees up a lot of other containers for other stuff lying around your room. Bed sheets, comforters, pillows, or stuffed animals can be put into large trash bags and easily managed since they’re not too heavy.
• Use your trashcan! Empty it and line it with a new, clean bag first. After you do this it’ll be perfect to use for more stuff. I used mine for my Sharpie collection, coloring books, DVDs, and rolled up posters.
• Think ahead. If you take any weekend trips home before the actual move-out date, use it to your advantage. Start taking stuff home earlier so there’s less to worry about on the day residence halls close.
Good luck and happy summer!!
(30 cool points to whoever got the subtle Billy Joel reference in the title. Eh?? ;P )
By: Andréa Fernandes
Read all posts by Andréa
A campus tour can give you a good feel for a college, but a shadow visit provides the opportunity to become a college student for a day or two, going to classes and meals and getting to know other students.
To get the most out of your visit, follow these tips:
1. Research the school. It may seem like it should go without saying, but you should always have an understanding of the school before you visit. Most schools have a “Fast Facts” section that will give you an overview of the school, including percentage of residential students, any religious affiliation, and other basics.
2. Prepare a list of questions. You’ll have the opportunity to talk to students, staff, admissions counselors, and faculty members, including professors in your major. Inevitably, at least one of those people will ask, “Do you have any questions?” Having some questions prepared will get you the information you need and want to make an informed decision, and it’ll give the questioners a chance to feel good for helping you, too.
3. Check out a campus map. Although you’ll most likely be accompanied by your student host or admissions counselor the whole time, it’s good to have a feel for the lay of the land. You’ll be less disoriented during your visit and will be able to find the cafeteria, bookstore, or other points of interest if necessary.
Read Full Entry…
By: Janean Ciancia
Read all posts by Janean
It is almost that time of year again. The summer is going by so fast and soon it will be time to go back to school. If you are a student who is buying their own books, here are some helpful tips that could help you save money.
Although it is not always possible, buying used books can save you a ton of money. As long as used books are not missing pages and are readable, they will be fine. Look on Ebay, Amazon, half.com, and other sites for used or new books. Ask upperclassmen, or students in your class if you can borrow or buy their books from them. They are many upperclassmen who were not able to sell they books back and would like to receive something for them. You could get really lucky and get books for cheap.
Another option is to rent your books. This year I will be renting some of my books from upperclassmen with the same major as myself. She wants to keep all of her textbooks just in case she has a reason to use them again. I am going to rent books from her for a small fee of about $10-$15 a book. I am going to save a lot of money because some of my books are almost fifty dollars to buy.
If you happen to buy any of your books throughout your college career, do you best to sell them back? You can sell them to the college bookstore, used bookstores, or put them on Ebay, Amazon, or half.com. At the beginning and end of semesters advertise that you have books for sale. Email your friends and post flyers, you never know who needs books!
