11 things you do when you are broke

As a college student, being broke is inevitable. You pay your bills, load up on gas and stock up on groceries, and are left with a pretty measly paycheck at the end of it all. But there is hope! Being frugal has helped me and many others scrimp, save and be successful financially. While there are practical ways to save, there are some pretty out-of-the-box ways as well. So without further ado, here are some of the things college students have seen people do (or have maybe even done themselves) to cut corners.

1. Stand in line and ask for two slices of pizza because one is "for your friend."

You are hungry (that butter and toast did not fill you up this morning) walking back to your house after class. On your way through the student center, the smell of piping hot cheese fills your nostrils. How can you pass up a piece... or two?

2. Water down the 99 cent hand soap to get more use out of it.

This is how you start a savings account.

3. Stock up on Ramen and Arizona Iced Tea.

Your young, healthy body can handle it now, but it won't be pretty later.

4. Keep all the lights in the house off, except for a table lamp in the room you are in.

You know that person. The one that is a light switch ninja when it comes to turning them off. If you do not know that person, you are that person. In defense, that electricity bill will get you if you are not careful.

5. Ask your friend if you can pay them 10 cents for a cigarette because you do not want to buy a pack.

If you smoke, you know the feeling. You do not want to bum, but you also just need a freaking jack.

6. Tag along to dinner with your roommates family when they visit over the weekend.

Free food, and of course, the great company that is adults who have their life together.

7. Shower with your significant other.

It saves water, and it is fun. Kill two birds with one stone.

8. Go to fraternity parties for the free beer.

This gives you a chance to wash away your worries without washing away your savings. Liquor adds up.

9. Stay inside.

Because nothing costs less than doing nothing on your couch all day long.

10. Nix cable.

Netflix and chill just got a whole lot better. Use that extra money for a slice of pizza, not annoying commercials.

11. Offer to drive in exchange for food.

Your gas tank is full, but your belly is not. Offering to drive a friend to CookOut in exchange for a tray is a win-win for everyone.

There is apparently no shame in the "I am broke" game.

ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED FOR THE ODYSSEY