Saving for a rainy day (or an extra couple of drinks).
Fleeing the nest and uni students are two sets of words that hardly ever appear in the same sentence when it comes to the Maltese, unless of course it reads like so: “My son’s a uni student and he’s not fleeing the nest anytime soon.” Often, leaving mamma’s house is something that only happens in Malta once you’ve settled down and have your own place to call home.
But for the brave few who think they’re ready to take the plunge and do their own laundry (or those that have travelled to Malta to study), there’s a thriving rental market that serves as a catalyst in the making of young adults. But, since the money isn’t always rolling in as expected, here are a few tips on how to save a few pennies while having fun as a young independent student.
Set a budget and stick to it
Splitting your funds into realistic sections helps when it comes to sticking to a budget. Setting limits on your spending on restaurants or take out may help you keep your overspending under control. Make sure you keep enough money in your account for rent, electricity and groceries - these are your essentials.
Go old school - get a piggy bank
This might sound dumb but it actually works! Get yourself an old-school piggy bank and put your loose change in it. The additional change won’t change your life, but neither will it break the bank. Crack the piggy open just in time for your Christmas shopping and get your better half a couple of stocking fillers to make their festive season a little bit warmer.
Eat at home
Prepping and cooking your own meals doesn’t have to be a burden - especially if you know what your next meal will consist of. Plan your weekly meals, do your own shopping and experiment with your favourite foods. Invite your friends over for a meal - more often than not, they’ll repay the favour.
Pre-drinks at your house
This one’s a winner and a super crowd-pleaser, plus it will save you from forking out your limited cash for overpriced drinks at the clubs. A BYOB party is always fun - grab a few packets of crisps and some other snacking foods, hit play on your favourite party playlist and let the beer pong begin.
Plan your week and your weekend
Having a clear goal for the week helps you focus and keep on track. Plan your day from morning to end, stick in some study time - it’s why you’re in Uni after all - and find something to do at the weekend that won’t empty your pockets. Get in touch with nature, go for a walk and take some photos; you never know, this might lead you to a super freelance gig!
Carpool or catch the bus
Flashing your driving licence at every chance you get is a totally understandable habit - but just because you have a car and can legally drive doesn’t mean you need to drive to every lecture, every single day. Find a bus route that suits your timetable or split shifts with a driving buddy - take it in turns and save on fuel.
Living in your own space while you're studying is not all fun and games - it’s a totally independent life that needs some planning. But living alone also has its perks - freedom to do what you think is best with a little helping of responsibility. Still, for most of us Maltese, if all else fails, mum’s house is always open, with a hot meal at the table, waiting for you to devour.