Times Of TIU

Writer:  Emili O.

Editor:  Zyla H.

Translator: Kotomi T.

Introduction

The start of university life brings students a sense of freedom and countless opportunities. Many students enjoy taking part-time jobs, hanging out with friends, or even traveling during breaks. This new independence is exciting, but it also comes with a challenge: managing money wisely. For students who live on a limited budget, daily expenses can add up quickly, making it difficult to save. The question then becomes—how can students enjoy a fulfilling campus life without constantly worrying about money? This article presents seven practical strategies that students can use to control their finances and still make the most of their university years.

1. Avoid Convenience Stores

Convenience stores are, as the name suggests, convenient. However, visiting them daily is one of the fastest ways to drain your wallet. A quick snack, a drink, or even stationery can easily add up to more than 1,000 yen in a single visit. The real danger is the temptation to buy unnecessary items just because they are within reach. To save money, try preparing homemade lunches or shopping at supermarkets, where prices are generally lower and bulk purchases are possible. By making this small lifestyle change, students can cut down significantly on daily expenses without sacrificing comfort.

2. Work Part-Time Jobs

Some studentseven juggle two or three different jobs to save for big goals like studying abroad, traveling, or investing in future opportunities. Part-time work not only provides income but also offers valuable experience in time management, communication, and responsibility. However, it is important to strike a balance. Overworking can lead to exhaustion and lower academic performance. The key is to find flexible jobs that fit into your class schedule and personal goals, allowing you to save steadily without overwhelming yourself.

3. Transportation Savings

Transportation costs may seem small at first, but add up quickly over time. Choosing to walk or cycle instead of taking the train whenever possible can save thousands of yen per month while also keeping you healthy. Additionally, avoid using expensive express trains like the TJ Liner unless absolutely necessary. When making plans with friends, consider choosing nearby destinations rather than faraway ones, which usually involve higher fares. Small adjustments in transportation habits can lead to long-term financial benefits while encouraging a more active lifestyle.

4. Develop Smart Spending Habits

Another way to save money is by becoming more conscious of daily spending habits. It is easy to fall into the trap of buying new clothes, cosmetics, or gadgets, even when the ones you already own are still perfectly usable. Instead of impulsive shopping, make use of coupons, discounts, and student deals to reduce costs. It also helps to set personal spending limits on entertainment, shopping, and eating out. By practicing self-control and distinguishing between needs and wants, students can prevent wasteful spending while still enjoying their favorite activities.

5. Budget Management

Creating and following a budget is one of the most effective ways to control expenses. Before making purchases or travel plans, ask yourself whether they fit within your financial plan. Budgeting requires a habit of careful thinking: Do you really need this item? Can you find a cheaper alternative? By setting monthly or weekly limits for categories like food, entertainment, and transportation, you can keep track of your spending more easily. Budgeting may seem restrictive at first, but in reality, it provides freedom—because when you know your limits, you can enjoy spending without guilt.

6. Save with Technology

Technology can either increase or reduce expenses depending on how you use it. For instance, relying on Wi-Fi instead of mobile data helps you avoid high phone bills. At home, make sure the Wi-Fi router stays connected so that your gigabytes are not wasted. Free apps for budgeting, discount information, and meal planning can also be powerful tools for saving money. In addition, many universities provide free digital resources such as e-books or online journals, which reduce the need to purchase expensive textbooks. By using technology wisely, students can save money and simplify their daily lives.

7. Avoid Losing Money and Valuables

Saving money is not only about reducing expenses but also about protecting what you already have. Students often lose wallets, IC cards, or even cash due to carelessness. To prevent such losses, always keep your valuables in a safe place and be mindful of where you put your belongings. Developing these habits early on will not only save money but also reduce unnecessary stress. In the long run, being careful with your possessions is just as important as earning money and budgeting.

Conclusion 

Building Habits for the Future

Learning how to manage money as a student is more than just a survival skill—it is a valuable life lesson that will benefit you long after graduation. By cooking at home, avoiding unnecessary purchases, choosing affordable transportation, and budgeting carefully, students can live comfortably even with limited funds. At the same time, these practices foster discipline, self-awareness, and responsibility. The goal is not to restrict yourself but to make thoughtful choices that align with your priorities. In the end, smart budgeting allows students to enjoy a fulfilling university life today while preparing for the opportunities and challenges of tomorrow.