College is undeniably one of the most carefree and enjoyable times in a person's life. It signifies the end of one's childhood and the beginning of one's adulthood. However, with so much personal freedom comes substantial financial responsibility - and many students are overwhelmed with this type of economic flexibility. The combination of a student's newfound independence and lack of pecuniary knowledge can negatively affect his or her credit history years later - and possibly place them in debt or bankruptcy. It is imperative that college students learn to live on a small budget. This will help them develop healthy spending habits that will stick with them for life.

• Sign up for one credit [http://advantageccs.org] card that you can use for emergency situations only - and no, late night pizza binges are not emergencies. The credit card business can be tricky. A credit agency often relies on the irresponsible and frivolous spending habits of college students to make money. Free online consumer counseling services like Advantage CCCS suggest doing some research and shopping around for a card with the lowest interest rate. Many credit [http://advantageccs.org] cards offer low interest student specials that are especially targeted toward college students. Not only will your credit card come in handy for essential expenditures, but it will also help you develop a positive credit history. Your credit history can significantly affect your future purchasing plans.


• Look for scholarships and grants. College scholarships and federal grants do not require repayment. They can be easily found by conducting an Internet search or by checking with a school's financial aid office. Apply for as many grants, scholarships and financial aid services as you can - you have a better chance of obtaining one or two by exploring several different options.


• Seek out free activities. Look around you. Most college students are in the same financial situation that you are in. That's why college campuses offer an abundance of free concerts, free meals and dining activities, free sports leagues, free clubs, free organizations and free events. Many local business also offer discounts for college students. You don't have to spend excessive amounts of money to have fun with friends or classmates.


• Plan ahead. Don't be caught unaware. Make a list of your monthly expenses like rent, phone bills, books, activities and grocery bills. Then total up your annual income to ensure that you are not overspending. It is also ideal to keep a small emergency fund if an unexpected costly event should arise.


• Get a part time job. Working at a part time job just one or two days a week can help you earn cash that can go toward your rent or book purchases. Just be careful that you do not work too many hours - your classes and grades are your first priority. During the summer or your holiday vacation, look for a full time job where you can earn money that will last you through the next semester.


• Think of the future. There is nothing wrong with obtaining student loans. Almost everyone requires some type of financial aid or government lending to get through college. Just be careful that you only borrow what is absolutely necessary. A student loan is not free money - you will have to pay it back when you graduate.