I never really paid too much attention to money when I was in high school (also hate admitting that), but I never had to really pay attention to how much I was spending. And no, no I am not a very wealthy person, surely I'm blessed but I appreciate what I have. I just never paid that much attention to it, because frankly, the thought of the real world and money issues just scared me silly.
But now that I'm in college I'm realizing just how dang expensive everything is. In the last two months, I've spent money on outfits for themed parties, food when I'm sick of Umphrey Lee, and the trivial things I used to take for granted (who knew how expensive toothpaste and bottles of water are?) And now that Halloween is here, I can't help but freak out at the idea that I'm supposed to have 4 different costumes for different parties!? Killin me smalls.
I appreciate everything now so much more, and all these realizations have been scary but necessary. I've learned to become much more resourceful. Can anyone say "heelllooo closet shopping!?"
This is something that I think a lot of college freshmen experience during their first few months away from home. I am in the same situation as you, I hadn't ever paid much attention to my finances prior to arriving at SMU. And I agree they are intimidating!Now I'll find myself looking at my reciepts as I walk out and wonder how I managed to spend that much money at CVS! Water bottles are quickly draining my pony/flex accounts but what's my other option? Water purifiers don't fit in my tiny fridge and the dorm water fountain is less than appealing :\ When it comes to eating at "the umph" you either love or hate it... well I'm not the biggest fan and avoiding it has turned into quite an expensive habit. Although we're going through a bit of sticker shock for now I'm sure we'll adjust and be better prepared for the "real world" because of this experience!
ReplyDelete...And as for the costumes. SMU might as well factor that into your annual tuition! I'd hate to know how much SMU students, as a whole, spend on costumes during a year!