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My last few blog posts have been pretty heavy, so I thought I should lighten up a bit and talk about something simpler: stupid crap students waste money on.

It's hard not to spend your money when you have a giant sum of cash from student loans dumped in your bank account at once. When I was in university, I spent my money on the dumbest things: shoes, lunches one time I nearly bought a rabbit.

You've probably heard all the typical ways to save money while in school'buy used books, pack a lunch'so I'm going to list a few ways you might not have thought of.

Hair

You want to look good, I get it. But the average person gets their hair cut once every six weeks, which adds up quickly. Tack on salon costs and a tip and the top of your head will take a major chunk out of your wallet.

Instead, try going to a local hairdressing college. Just like you would love help with your papers and projects, these junior hairstylists need clients to work on their craft. And while doing your good deed for the day, you're saving a ton of money, as these appointments are at a great discount (or sometimes even free). It may take a bit longer, but with a supervisor there, your hair will be fine.

Television

Recent studies show that young people watch far less television than their older counterparts. However, because our parents instilled in us that cable is a necessity in every household, many student homes have cable but hardly use it.

As much as people complain about Canadian Netflix, it's only eight bucks a month and has a variety of shows. And if that doesn't appeal to you, well, you could always, you know, study.

Sex

The best things in life are free. Amen. So don't pay for condoms. There's a sexual health centre and doctor's office on every campus and they all have a ridiculous supply of free contraception. You'll also find condoms in swag bags at career fairs and conferences, so keep a supply.

Water

In 2009, the bottled water industry in Canada alone was worth more than $400 million. (Basically, companies that sell bottled water, including giant corporations like Coca-Cola that make Dasani, are laughing all the way to the bank because you're paying for something that comes out of a tap.) There are fountains all across campus, so invest in a $10 reusable bottle and fill it up throughout the day, rather than paying around $2 every time you're thirsty.


James Michael McDonald is the editor of Jobpostings Magazine and jobpostings.ca. He has passions for human rights, gaming, and the Oxford Comma. Follow him on Twitter @mcjamdonald.