UW-W Financial Literacy Center

Life as a college student is stressful. You have to balance many things at once and oftentimes your own finances get overlooked. Many college students are never taught how to take care of their own finances which adds further stress to their lives. I am going to give you some things you can start doing now to take control of your financial situation and set you up for success.

Budgeting

Creating a budget is simple and easy to do and will help you learn more about your money habits. Tracking the money you have coming in and the money you have going out will help you grasp how much you are really saving and spending. To create a budget track how much you spend in one month and how much you make in that same month. Then sort your spending into categories (Food, Housing, Entertainment, etc.). Use this information to set a budget of how much you are going to spend every month to ensure you are saving money. The most important part of a budget is sticking to it!

Savings/Emergency Fund

Once you have your budget down and can consistently save money, putting your money in a savings account is the next step. Even if you are saving a small amount at a time, getting into this habit is very important. It is recommended to keep 3-6 months worth of expenses in an emergency fund in case of unexpected costs such as car repairs or medical bills. After you have your emergency fund account, put the rest in a normal savings account that you will take spending money out of.

Pro Tip: I recommend looking into high yield savings accounts that will give you around 4% return on your money for just having it in the account.

Credit Cards/Credit Scores

Be mindful of credit cards. While they can help build credit, it’s crucial to use them wisely. Only charge what you can afford to pay off each month, and avoid carrying a balance to dodge high interest rates.

More information regarding the best credit cards for college students as well as how to build your credit is available on the Financial Literacy Center’s blog.

Link: https://blogs.uww.edu/financialliteracycenter/

Take advantage of Free Resources

The Financial Literacy Center offers free one-on-one coaching, workshops, and tools to help you make informed money decisions. We are Located in the University Center room 129 and make blog posts like this twice a month. We are always willing to help!

Student loans can be a burden after graduation, but with careful planning and smart financial decisions, college students can reduce or even avoid them altogether. By exploring alternative funding options and making cost-conscious choices, students can work toward earning their degree with minimal debt.

Step 1: Maximize Scholarships and Grants

• Apply for as many scholarships as possible, both from UW-Whitewater and external sources
• Complete the FAFSA early to qualify for need-based aid
• Research grant opportunities related to your field of study
• Check with local organizations, employers, and community foundations for additional funding

Step 2: Choose an Affordable School and Program

• Attending a public university like UW-Whitewater, which offers quality education at a lower cost compared to private institutions
• Completing general education requirements at a community college before transferring
• Exploring in-state tuition benefits
• Choosing a major with strong job prospects to ensure a return on investment

Step 3: Work While in School

• Part-time jobs: Consider flexible work options like tutoring, retail, or food service
• Side gigs: Freelancing, babysitting, or selling handmade items online can provide extra income
• Internships: Some internships offer pay while providing valuable career experience

Step 4: Live Frugally and Budget Wisely

• Living with roommates or at home to save on housing costs
• Cooking meals instead of dining out
• Using public transportation or biking instead of owning a car
• Buying used textbooks, renting them, or using library resources
• Taking advantage of student discounts for entertainment and shopping

Step 5: Pay Tuition in Installments

Some colleges, including UW-Whitewater, offer tuition payment plans that allow students to spread costs over the semester instead of taking out loans. Check with the Financial Aid Office for details.

Step 6: Only Borrow What You Absolutely Need

• Opt for federal loans over private loans, as they typically have lower interest rates and better repayment options
• Avoid borrowing for non-essential expenses like vacations or luxury items
• Research repayment plans and forgiveness programs before taking out loans

Student loan repayment can feel overwhelming, but understanding your options can make a huge difference. Whether you’re looking for a predictable plan, a gradual increase in payments, or an income-driven approach, there’s a repayment strategy that can work for your financial situation. In this blog, we’ll break down the three primary repayment strategies: Standard, Graduated, and Income-Based repayment plans.

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1. Standard Repayment Plan: The Fastest Route to Debt Freedom

The Standard Repayment Plan is the most straightforward option. If you have federal student loans, this is the default plan unless you choose another.

How It Works:

• Fixed monthly payments
• 10-year repayment term (up to 30 years for consolidation loans)
• Lower overall interest paid compared to other plans

Best For:

• Borrowers who can afford consistent payments
• Those looking to minimize total interest costs
• Individuals with stable incomes

Pros & Cons:

Pros: Lower interest costs, faster debt payoff
Cons: Higher monthly payments compared to other plans

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2. Graduated Repayment Plan: Start Low, Increase Over Time

The Graduated Repayment Plan is designed for borrowers who expect their income to grow over time.

How It Works:

• Lower initial payments that increase every two years
• 10-year repayment term (up to 30 years for consolidation loans)
• Payments start low but gradually rise

Best For:

• Recent graduates with lower starting salaries
• Those expecting steady income increases over time
• Borrowers who want predictable increases in payments

Pros & Cons:

Pros: Easier entry-level payments, predictable increases
Cons: Higher total interest paid compared to the Standard Plan

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3. Income-Based Repayment (IBR) & Other Income-Driven Plans

For those with high student debt relative to their income, Income-Based Repayment (IBR) and other income-driven repayment (IDR) plans offer flexible options.

Types of IDR Plans:

• Income-Based Repayment (IBR): 10-15% of discretionary income, forgiveness after 20-25 years
• Pay As You Earn (PAYE): 10% of discretionary income, forgiveness after 20 years
• Revised Pay As You Earn (REPAYE): 10% of discretionary income, forgiveness after 20-25 years
• Income-Contingent Repayment (ICR): 20% of discretionary income or fixed payments over 12 years, forgiveness after 25 years

How It Works:

• Monthly payments based on a percentage of your income
• Payments can adjust yearly based on earnings
• Loan forgiveness possible after 20-25 years

Best For:

• Borrowers with fluctuating or lower incomes
• Those working in public service (who may qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF))
• Borrowers who need flexibility in monthly payments

Pros & Cons:

Pros: Lower monthly payments, potential loan forgiveness
Cons: More interest paid over time, possible tax implications on forgiven debt

Building good credit is a key factor in achieving financial success. Whether you’re buying a home, leasing a car, or applying for a credit card, your credit score plays a significant role in your ability to access financial opportunities. Fortunately, building credit is a process you can control with a few smart steps. Here are five effective ways to build your credit and boost your financial standing.

1. Start with a Secured Credit Card

If you’re new to credit or rebuilding after a setback, a secured credit card can be a great starting point. With this type of card, you’ll need to make a deposit that serves as your credit limit. This deposit minimizes the risk for the lender, making it easier for you to qualify. Over time, as you use the card responsibly—paying off your balance on time and keeping your utilization low—you’ll build a positive credit history.

Make sure to choose a secured card that reports to the credit bureaus, as this ensures your efforts will be reflected in your credit report. After several months of responsible use, you may be able to transition to an unsecured card with a higher limit and more benefits.

2. Pay Your Bills on Time, Every Time

The most important factor in building and maintaining good credit is paying your bills on time. Late payments are one of the most significant negative factors that can damage your credit score. These late payments are reported to the credit bureaus and can remain on your credit report for up to seven years.

To stay on track, consider setting up automatic payments for recurring bills or setting reminders. The earlier you start making on-time payments, the quicker your credit score will reflect your positive habits.

3. Keep Your Credit Utilization Low

Your credit utilization ratio is a key component of your credit score. It’s calculated by dividing your credit card balances by your total available credit limit. For example, if your total credit limit is $5,000 and you’ve used $2,000 of it, your utilization rate is 40%. Ideally, you want to keep this ratio under 30%. This shows lenders that you’re responsible with credit and don’t rely too heavily on it.

To keep your utilization low, you can either pay off your balances in full each month or ask for a credit limit increase. Just make sure that you don’t increase your spending when your limit goes up.

4. Diversify Your Credit Mix

Lenders like to see that you can manage different types of credit responsibly. Having a mix of revolving credit (like credit cards) and installment loans (such as a car loan or student loan) can help improve your credit score. However, it’s essential to only take on credit that you can manage. Don’t apply for new types of credit just to diversify your mix if you’re not ready for it.

Opening new credit accounts should be done cautiously and strategically. Too many hard inquiries within a short time can lower your credit score, so be mindful of how often you apply for credit.

5. Monitor Your Credit Report Regularly

It’s essential to keep an eye on your credit report to ensure that everything is accurate and up to date. Mistakes or fraudulent activity can negatively impact your credit score without your knowledge. You’re entitled to a free copy of your credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—once a year through AnnualCreditReport.com.

Take the time to review your credit report for errors, such as incorrect personal information, unfamiliar accounts, or wrongly reported late payments. If you spot an error, dispute it with the credit bureau immediately to have it corrected.

Conclusion

Building credit takes time, but the payoff is well worth it. By using these strategies, such as starting with a secured credit card, paying your bills on time, maintaining low credit utilization, diversifying your credit mix, and monitoring your credit report, you’ll be on your way to a strong credit score.

Remember, the key to building credit is consistency and patience. Stay disciplined in your financial habits, and your credit score will improve, unlocking better opportunities for your future financial goals.

Paying for college can be a challenge, but at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater (UWW), there are plenty of scholarship opportunities to help ease the financial burden. Whether you’re an incoming freshman, a transfer student, or already a part of the UWW community, there are several unique scholarships specifically for Warhawks that you can apply for. These scholarships are offered by UWW departments, alumni, and local organizations, ensuring a variety of options for students from all backgrounds.

Here’s a guide to finding scholarships that are unique to UWW:

1. The UWW Scholarship Portal

The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater provides a centralized Scholarship Portal that offers a wide range of scholarships exclusive to UWW students. This portal is your one-stop shop for all UWW-specific scholarship opportunities, where you can apply for multiple scholarships with just one application. Scholarships here are offered by the university, individual departments, and even private donors.

How to Access:

• You can find the Scholarship Portal through your WINS account or access it at https://www.uww.edu/scholarships
• Make sure to check the portal every semester, as new scholarships become available on a regular basis.
• Be sure to follow any specific instructions for submitting documents or essays and adhere to deadlines.

2. Department-Specific Scholarships

Many academic departments at UWW offer scholarships specifically for students within their programs. Whether you’re studying business, education, science, or the arts, there’s a good chance that your department offers financial assistance to support your academic journey.

Examples of Departmental Scholarships:

• College of Business and Economics: This college offers a range of scholarships for students majoring in business disciplines, such as accounting, finance, marketing, and management.
• College of Education and Professional Studies: Students pursuing education, social work, or health-related programs can find scholarships through the College of Education.
• College of Arts and Communication: Scholarships for students in fields such as music, theater, and communication are available.
• College of Letters and Sciences: Many general scholarships are available for students in this college, which includes a wide variety of majors ranging from biology to political science to psychology.

How to Apply:

• Contact your department or check your department’s webpage for scholarship opportunities.
• Some scholarships may require a separate application, while others are part of the general scholarship application process in the UWW Scholarship Portal.

3. Club and Organization-Specific Scholarships

Many student clubs, fraternities, sororities, and campus organizations at UWW offer scholarships to their members. If you are involved in a student organization or club, there may be scholarship opportunities available specifically for members who demonstrate leadership, involvement, and academic success.

Examples:

• Greek Life Scholarships: If you’re a member of a fraternity or sorority at UWW, there may be scholarships offered by the Greek community or individual chapters.
• Honor Society Scholarships: UWW’s honor societies, such as Phi Theta Kappa or the National Society of Collegiate Scholars, often offer scholarships to active members.
• Club-Specific Scholarships: Many student organizations like the Student Government Association (SGA), International Student Organization, or the Warhawk Leadership Program provide scholarships to members.

How to Apply:

• Check with your club, organization, or Greek chapter for available scholarship opportunities.
• Most organizations will have a process for applying, which may involve submitting an application or a statement of involvement.

Final Thoughts

There are many unique scholarship opportunities for students at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, and it’s essential to explore all the available options to maximize your chances of receiving financial support. From the general UWW Scholarship Portal to department-specific opportunities, local community foundations, and alumni-backed funds, the resources available are vast and varied. Be proactive, check deadlines, and apply for as many scholarships as you’re eligible for. With the right approach, you can secure valuable funding to help you succeed as a Warhawk!

The holiday season is upon us, and while it’s the perfect time to celebrate with friends and family, it can also be an expensive time of year. However, gifting doesn’t have to break the bank. With a little creativity and effort, you can create heartfelt and personal presents that won’t cost a fortune. DIY holiday gifts are not only budget-friendly but also meaningful, as they show you’ve put time and care into the gesture. Below, we’ll share some affordable and easy-to-make DIY gift ideas for everyone on your list.

1. Handmade Candles

Candles are a classic gift, and making them yourself can be fun and cost-effective. You can experiment with different colors, scents, and even unique containers like teacups or mason jars. Plus, there’s something incredibly cozy about receiving a handmade candle during the cold winter months.

What You’ll Need:

• Wax (soy or beeswax)
• Wick
• Fragrance oils (lavender, cinnamon, etc.)
• Containers (mason jars, teacups, etc.)

Instructions:

1. Melt the wax according to package instructions.
2. Add fragrance oils once the wax is melted.
3. Pour the wax into your chosen containers, securing the wick in place as it hardens.
4. Allow the candles to cool for 4-6 hours before use.

Cost: $10 for several candles (bulk buying the wax and supplies)

2. Personalized Photo Calendar

Give the gift of memories with a DIY photo calendar. This is a great option for grandparents, parents, or anyone who enjoys looking back on special moments. You can easily create a photo calendar online using various services (like Shutterfly or Vistaprint) or make one by hand, selecting a photo for each month.

What You’ll Need:

• 12 photos
• Cardstock or pre-made blank calendar template
• Craft supplies (markers, stickers, etc.)

Instructions:

1. Select and print a photo for each month.
2. Attach the photos to the calendar template and decorate with personal notes or stickers.
3. If you prefer, you can simply create a handmade card for each month with a note attached to make it extra personal.

Cost: Free if using photos you already have, or $10 for online printing

3. DIY Bath Bombs

Bath bombs are a luxurious treat, and making them yourself is surprisingly easy! With a few basic ingredients like baking soda, citric acid, and essential oils, you can create colorful and fragrant bath bombs that make the perfect self-care gift.

What You’ll Need:

• 1 cup baking soda
• 1/2 cup citric acid
• 1/2 cup Epsom salt
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• Essential oils for fragrance
• Food coloring (optional)

Instructions:

1. Mix the dry ingredients together in a bowl.
2. Slowly add the wet ingredients (coconut oil, essential oils, and food coloring).
3. Pack the mixture into molds (silicone molds work best) and let them dry overnight.

Cost: Around $5 for 6-8 bath bombs

4. Customized Cookie Jars

For those who enjoy baking, a jar filled with homemade cookies or cookie mix is a sweet and thoughtful gift. You can either bake the cookies and present them in a mason jar, or layer the dry ingredients for a DIY cookie mix and add a recipe card. Either way, it’s a gift that’s sure to be appreciated.

What You’ll Need:

• Mason jar or any glass container
• Cookie ingredients (flour, sugar, chocolate chips, etc.)
• Recipe card

Instructions:

1. Layer the dry ingredients in the jar in the order they’re needed for the recipe.
2. Tie a ribbon or twine around the jar with a tag that includes baking instructions.
3. You can also include a batch of homemade cookies in the jar for an extra touch.

Cost: Around $5 per jar

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Conclusion

DIY holiday gifts don’t have to be expensive to be meaningful. Whether you’re making a personalized calendars, crafting homemade candles, or baking a batch of cookies, the key is putting thought and care into each gift. These affordable DIY ideas allow you to share something personal with your loved ones while staying within budget. So, get creative this holiday season, and enjoy the joy that comes from making a gift with your own hands!

The holiday season is a great time to show those that you care about how special they are, and a great gift doesn’t have to break the bank! Whether you’re shopping for family, friends, coworkers, or anyone on your list, here are five thoughtful and versatile gift ideas, each under $20, that will bring joy without stretching your budget.

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1. Customizable Mugs

• Why it’s great: A personalized mug is perfect for anyone who enjoys a warm cup of coffee, tea, or cocoa. You can easily find mugs that allow you to add a fun message, their initials, or a custom design.
• Where to find it: Many online stores, like Amazon or Etsy, offer customizable options for under $20. Look for options with fun patterns, sayings, or a photo option for a personal touch.

2. Mini Succulent Planter

• Why it’s great: Small plants bring a touch of nature indoors and are known for improving air quality and reducing stress. Succulents are easy to care for, making them perfect for both experienced plant owners and beginners. They’re low-maintenance, and add greenery to any space.
• Where to find it: Local garden centers, big-box stores like Target, or even online shops. Many sellers offer affordable single succulents or bundles with a small pot, all within the $20 range.

3. Portable Bluetooth Speaker

• Why it’s great: Whether for listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks, a portable Bluetooth speaker is a gift anyone can appreciate. It’s compact and perfect for on-the-go listening, so the recipient can take it to the beach, park, or enjoy it at home.
• Where to find it: Major retailers like Walmart or Amazon offer a range of small, budget-friendly Bluetooth speakers. Many models are available under $20, with decent sound quality and battery life.

4. Desk Toys & Fidgets

• Why it’s great: Perfect for anyone who spends time at a desk, fidget toys or small desk gadgets can add a bit of fun to the workday and even help reduce stress. There are options for all types, from calming sensory items to classic stress balls.
• Where to find it: Check out places like Five Below, Target, or even bookstores, which often stock affordable options. You’ll find everything from mini magnetic sculptures to fidget cubes and stress-relieving toys within your price range.

5. DIY Hot Chocolate Kit

• Why it’s great: A DIY hot chocolate kit, complete with a mix, marshmallows, chocolate chips, and maybe even a mini whisk or cinnamon stick. It’s thoughtful, easy to put together, and can be customized with flavors or toppings the recipient loves.
• Where to find it: You can make your own kit with affordable items from a grocery store or buy a pre-made one from specialty stores or online. Look for affordable gourmet options, or make it yourself for a truly personal touch.

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Happy Gifting!

Each of these ideas is affordable, thoughtful, and flexible enough to appeal to almost anyone. Plus, at under $20, they’re friendly budget friendly. Happy Holidays!

In today’s digital world, social media plays a significant role in our daily lives, connecting us with friends, family, and communities. However, with these connections come risks, especially for college students navigating their academic and personal lives. At the UW-Whitewater Financial Literacy Center, we believe that understanding social media safety is just as important as financial literacy. Here are some key tips to help you stay safe online.

1. Protect Your Privacy Settings

One of the first steps to ensuring your safety on social media is to review and adjust your privacy settings. Most platforms offer options to control who can see your posts, comment on your content, and send you messages. Consider setting your profiles to private and limit your audience to friends and family. This can help prevent unwanted attention from strangers.

Action Steps:

• Regularly check your privacy settings on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
• Be mindful of what you share publicly, as even seemingly harmless information can be used against you.

2. Think Before You Share

It’s easy to share updates and photos in the moment, but it’s essential to think about the long-term implications of your posts. Once something is online, it can be challenging to erase it completely. Consider how your posts might be perceived by potential employers, professors, or future connections.

Action Steps:

• Ask yourself: Would I be comfortable if my family or future employer saw this post?
• Avoid sharing sensitive information such as your location, financial details, or personal identifiers.

3. Be Cautious with Friend Requests

Social media is a great way to meet new people, but not everyone has good intentions. Be aware of friend requests from strangers, especially those who seem to have incomplete profiles or mutual friends you don’t know well. Scammers often create fake accounts to gain access to your personal information.

Action Steps:

• Verify profiles before accepting requests.
• If someone messages you with a suspicious offer or request, do not respond and consider reporting the account.

4. Recognize Phishing Attempts

Phishing scams can occur on social media just as they do through email. These scams often involve messages that appear to be from legitimate sources, asking for personal information or directing you to fraudulent websites.

Action Steps:

• Be suspicious of messages that create a sense of urgency, such as claims that your account will be locked unless you act immediately.
• Never click on links from unknown sources or provide personal information unless you are certain of the recipient’s identity.

5. Educate Yourself on Online Etiquette

Maintaining a respectful online presence is crucial not just for your safety but also for your reputation. Be aware of how your comments and interactions can impact your digital footprint.

Action Steps:

• Engage positively and constructively with others.
• Think before you comment or share controversial opinions, as they can spark unwanted conflict.

6. Keep Software Updated

Ensure that your devices and applications are up to date. Regular updates help protect against security vulnerabilities that could be exploited by hackers.

Action Steps:

• Enable automatic updates for your operating system and apps.
• Use reputable antivirus software to protect your devices.

7. Report Suspicious Activity

If you encounter any suspicious behavior, whether it’s a message from an unknown source or a post that seems inappropriate, don’t hesitate to report it. Social media platforms have mechanisms in place to handle such issues and protect their users.

Action Steps:

• Familiarize yourself with how to report accounts or posts on each platform.
• Don’t hesitate to block users who make you uncomfortable.