College Plans & Eating Well on a Budget – Monday, Sept. 21, 2015

Due to the large amount of expenses that go along with a higher education, the College Board says that roughly two thirds of college students will pay for their education with some form of financial aid.  President Obama understands this financial struggle for many Americans, and he has recently spoken to a group of students, and their parents, who are currently starting the application process for college in the upcoming year.

President Obama explained his plan to make the application process a little easier. He is working on streamlining the financial aid application process, and filling out those forms earlier, so students will have a better idea on how much aid they will receive.  This will help students know what they can and cannot afford, in time to make a decision on where to attend school.

Although the amount of federal money is a huge contributor in many college students’ decision making process, it is always important to start a college savings fund for your child early on.  Sometimes private loans are more attainable than federal loans, which can be a huge help for the increasing prices of yearly tuition fees. Tuition is not the only expense for students, however, books, supplies and food are also a part of the budget.

Food is not only a financial concern, but a health issue as well.  Especially for college students, it can be difficult at times to eat healthy on a budget.  Julie Wampler, food blogger, and dietitian, Anne Mauney, provide a few helpful tips when trying to stay healthy, while saving money:

• Filling a grocery basket with foods that stretch to multiple meals
• Cooking meals that load up on vegetables, with meat on the side
• Eating a substantial breakfast
• Bring healthy snacks for the day
• Avoid late night snacking