Don't spend more than you have. Using your cell phone can be costly! Having a car costs money: gas, repairs, parking, parking tickets, insurance, etc. Think before you buy; watch impulse spending. Don't gamble--on-line, etc. Eating out costs a lot. Use your on-campus meal plan when possible. Before buying--decide do I want it or need it. Get a job if you enjoy spending money. Make sure you have time for a job, so your academics don't suffer. Make a budget so you know what you spend. Before you borrow money, know the terms--when you have to repay, interest rates, etc. Know where you can get a loan, if you need one. MSU's student government offers a $100 loan. (http://finaid.msu.edu/loans.asp). Be careful about lending money to friends--this can put a strain on a friendship. Be smart with your money! Know that your parents can't/won't always give you money when you want or need it. Look for bargains.