Thursday 01-06-2023 - 10:39

Concerns about the increasing cost of living have been raised among people living in the UK and have prompted various pieces of advice given to students. Depending on individual circumstances, not every one of them may apply. As university students, we may have numerous interests but a tight budget, so we need to figure out the most optimal methods to balance all interests and priorities. There are certain things under our control, please make sure to take the wheel.

Make full use of what's already on offer

There are numerous discussions and information on the ‘Cost of Living’, and the UWTSD Students Union website dedicates a corner to this topic: Cost of Living Webpage. I believe the more information you have at hand, the more you will be able to turn it to your advantage, and particularly for your finances. Explore, consider, try to apply, and reflect on what suits you the best as well as what can be useful for you later.

In addition, if you are into doing sports and being active, think of what you can do right on our campuses. You could go for a daily stroll or run around the campus while listening to and looking at nature for the sake of both physical and mental wellbeing. The University’s gym is nice, and for students with tight budgets, a free gym pass should not be missed. And remember to check out our wonderful swimming pools!

Enquire about student discounts

For my part, I love to try new food, but am not confident in my cooking repertoire, so dining out is a guilty pleasure. During those occasions, I ask whether the restaurants offer student discounts and feel less “guilty” knowing that being a student could endow me with possible “delicious discounts”. Concessions may not always be available, but you should not lose heart to check for a possibility. 

“It pays to shop around”

I first heard this advice upon arriving at the UWTSD, and it works. You can compare the price and quality before making a purchase, having fun and using your head at the same time. Again, if you like being active, this is a plus as you will have a chance to walk around to different stores. Enjoy window-shopping and refrain from making rash decisions.

Lead sustainable lifestyle

Some people think “sustainability” may be far-fetched. However, important baby steps can be taken to create collective power, and they also help reduce your financial anxiety. For instance, going to charity shops may lead you to stunning and fashionable discoveries at bargain prices. They are pre-loved, and practical. You can find other fundamental tips at this blog post: "tips on becoming a more sustainable student". It would be wonderful if you have your own sustainability ideas and share them with us, so that they may be better known and applied.

Make your own and “equivalent exchange”

“Cook at home” has been among the most common pieces of advice when it comes to living economically and healthily. I try looking for easy recipes using a few ingredients - online, and from my dear friends/flatmates - who love cooking. When you successfully make a dish, no matter how simple it is, you have surely improved your “survival” skills and self-confidence. Those positive vibes could be shared with your friends as well. 

In addition, frequently used ingredients which are packed in bulk, such as flour and sugar, could be shared among people living together. This not only helps save costs, but also significantly reduces food waste.

Mi Nguyen
Global Issues / Advocacy
(Carmarthen)