UW-W Financial Literacy Center

Are you interested in getting an apartment but feeling overwhelmed by all the housing options, finding roommates, or figuring out where to start? This guide will help simplify the apartment-hunting process, answer common questions, and give you the tips you need to make a more confident decision.

1. Roommates

• Know Your Roommate Count: Before apartment hunting, have a general idea of how many roommates you want. This is one of the most important steps because it helps narrow down your housing options. Many landlords will also ask for this information to help plan apartment tours.

• Finding Roommates: Consider living with your current roommate, college friends, high school friends, or friends of friends. You can also post on social media or advertise at the UC to find potential roommates.

2. Start Looking Early

• Begin searching for apartments in September or October, when you’ll typically have the most housing options available. Many students start looking as soon as leases become available, so popular options can fill up quickly. Try to finalize your roommate group by the end of October to give yourself plenty of time to explore your options and find the right apartment.

3. Where to Look

• UWW Off-Campus Housing Website: A great place to start looking at available apartments.
• Local Landlord Websites: Check websites like DLK Rentals and other Whitewater rental companies.
• Google Searches: Search for apartment names and addresses to find additional listings, pictures, and information.

4. What to Consider

When comparing apartments, focus on these factors:

• Rent: How much will you pay each month?
• Extra Costs: Are utilities, parking, security deposits, or other fees included?
• Layout: How many bedrooms and bathrooms are there? Is there enough shared space?
• Location: How far is it from campus, work, or other important places?
• Landlord: Look at reviews and experiences from previous tenants.
• Restrictions: Are there rules about pets, parking, or other things?

Tip: Don’t choose an apartment based on rent alone! A cheaper apartment may end up costing more because of utilities or additional fees.

5. Plan Ahead With Your Roommates

• Make a shared list: Have everyone write down what they can bring, such as furniture, kitchen supplies, or appliances.
• Figure out what you need: Create a separate list of items you’ll need to purchase.
• Save money: Ask family and friends for extra items or check Facebook Marketplace for affordable furniture.
• Assign bedrooms: Discuss who gets each bedroom and how bathrooms will be shared before moving in to avoid disagreements.

Start early, communicate with your roommates, and compare all your options before signing a lease. Planning ahead can save you money and make moving much easier. I wish you the best of luck!

Tiana Heitmann

When it comes to money, it can sometimes feel like everyone else knows what they are doing. 

Maybe a friend understands investing; your roommate seems to have their budget figured out, or someone in your class already knows exactly what they want to do with their finances after graduation. Meanwhile, you might still be figuring out how credit cards work, how much you should be saving, or where your money seems to go each month. 

The truth is you do not have to know everything about money to be financially confident. You just must be curious enough to keep learning. 

Financial confidence comes from asking questions, looking for reliable information, and becoming comfortable making informed decisions. 

Start by Asking Questions 

One of the easiest ways to become more confident with money is also one of the simplest: ask questions. 

If you do not understand something, ask. 

• What is a credit score? 

• How does student loan interest work? 

• What is the difference between a Roth IRA and a traditional IRA? 

• How much should I keep in savings? 

• What benefits does my employer offer? 

These are not “stupid” questions. Personal finance covers a huge range of topics, and nobody starts out knowing all of them. 

Instead of avoiding something because it seems complicated, be curious about it. Learning starts with recognizing what you do not know and being willing to find the answer. 

Curiosity Can Help You Make Better Decisions 

Being curious about your money is not just about learning interesting financial facts. It can also help you make better decisions and avoid costly mistakes. 

For example, before opening a credit card, you might ask: 

• What is the interest rate? 

• Is there an annual fee? 

• What happens if I miss a payment? 

• How can I use this card without taking on unnecessary debt? 

Before taking out a student loan, you might ask: 

• How much will I owe when I graduate? 

• What interest rate will I pay? 

• When will repayment begin? 

• Are there other ways I can cover my expenses? 

Before making an investment, you might ask: 

• What am I actually investing in? 

• What are the risks? 

• Are there fees? 

• How long do I plan to keep my money invested? 

These questions do not take hours to answer. Taking a few minutes to understand a financial decision can make a big difference in the decision you ultimately make. 

You Do Not Have to Become a Finance Expert 

Financial literacy can feel overwhelming because there is always something else to learn. 

There are taxes, investing, insurance, credit, student loans, retirement accounts, budgeting, and countless other topics. It can be easy to think that you need to understand all of them before you can feel confident about your finances. 

You do not. 

Think about learning in college. You do not master an entire subject in one day. You learn one concept, build on it, and gradually become more comfortable with the material. 

Your finances can work the same way. 

Maybe this month you learn how credit scores work. Next month, you learn about investing. Later, you learn more about taxes, insurance, or retirement accounts. 

Small amounts of knowledge can add up to much greater confidence over time. 

Make Curiosity a Habit 

The best way to become more comfortable with money is to make learning about it a regular habit. 

You could set aside a few minutes each week to: 

• Review your spending and ask where your money is going. 

• Read about a financial topic you do not understand. 

• Compare the fees or interest rates on your financial accounts. 

• Check your credit report. 

• Ask someone you trust about a financial decision. 

• Learn more about the benefits offered by your employer. 

• Meet with a financial educator when you have a question. 

You do not need to spend hours researching every financial decision. The goal is simply to stay engaged with your money instead of ignoring it. 

The more curious you are about your finances, the easier it becomes to recognize opportunities to improve them. 

Confidence Comes from Making Informed Decisions 

Financial confidence does not mean never making a mistake. 

You might overspend one month. You might choose an account that is not the best fit for you. You might make a financial decision and later realize there was a better option. 

That is okay. 

What matters is what you do next. 

Instead of thinking, “I am bad with money,” try asking, “What can I learn from this?” 

That small change in perspective can make a big difference. Mistakes can become opportunities to learn, and questions can become opportunities to grow. 

Over time, understanding your finances can make it easier to make decisions with intention rather than uncertainty. 

Your Curiosity Is an Advantage 

College is a great time to become more curious about your finances. You are making decisions now that can help shape your financial habits for years to come. 

You do not need to have your entire financial future figured out while you are in college. You just need to start paying attention. 

Ask questions. Look for reliable information. Be willing to admit when you do not know something. Before making an important financial decision, take the time to understand what you are choosing. 

You do not need to know everything about money to be financially confident. You just need to be curious enough to keep learning. 

So, if there is a financial question you have been putting off, ask it! If there is a financial topic you have never understood, learn about it! And if you are not sure where to start, come visit us at the Financial Literacy Center in the University Center! 

Remember, your financial confidence can start with something as simple as being curious. 

Whether you’re grabbing a coffee at Jitters or just trying to survive a mid-semester grocery run at Walmart, being a Warhawk teaches you one thing very quickly: Money flies.

Living in Whitewater is generally more affordable than being in Madison or Milwaukee, but “affordable” can still lead to a zero-balance bank account if you aren’t careful. Here is a breakdown of what I’ve learned about mastering a student budget while living the UWW life.

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1. The “Purple Power” of the Meal Plan

The biggest rookie mistake is spending “real world” money on food before exhausting your campus resources.

• Weekly Meals: If you’re on a weekly plan, use them or lose them. They don’t roll over!
• Dining Dollars: These are your best friend for those late-night snacks at the UC.
• The Strategy: Treat Dining Dollars like an emergency fund. Use your meal swipes for the big stuff and save your cash for the off-campus spots like Toppers.

2. Transportation: The Hidden Budget Saver

One of the best things about Whitewater is that it is a highly walkable town.

• Ditch the Gas: Unless you’re commuting from Janesville or Milton, your car should stay parked as much as possible. Between the cost of a parking permit and current gas prices, walking to Hyland Hall or the Williams Center is a massive “raise” for your wallet.

3. Entertainment on a Budget

You don’t need to spend $50 every weekend to have a good time. UWW has a ton of built-in value:

• UC Entertainment: From free movies at the Summers Auditorium to bowling at Warhawk Lanes, the University Center is the hub for low-cost fun.
• Free Athletics: Your student ID gets you into most regular-season home games. Watching the Warhawks dominate on the field is high-tier entertainment for $0.

4. The “Thrift and Save” Mentality

Whitewater and the surrounding areas (like Fort Atkinson) have some solid thrifting options.

• Textbooks: Never buy new from the jump. Renting is almost always the better move, or check the UWW social media groups to buy used from students who just finished the course.
• Student Discounts: Always ask! Many local businesses in the Whitewater community offer a small discount if you show your HawkCard. It might only be 10%, but over a semester, that’s a few extra pizzas.

Final Thoughts

Budgeting as a student isn’t about depriving yourself; it’s about prioritizing. It’s choosing the things that make your college experience great while ensuring you aren’t stressed about your phone bill during finals week.

Stay smart, stay frugal, and Go Hawks!

In the weeks leading up to graduation, it is important to organize your finances, review your loans, and prepare for the transition out of college. But financial planning only begins once you walk across the stage or start your first job.

For many graduates, the first full-time paycheck represents a major shift. Moving from part-time income or student budgets to a steady salary can feel amazing, but it can also lead to financial distress if spending increases too quickly.

The months immediately following graduation are an opportunity to build habits that will shape your financial future.

Below are several steps that can help new graduates make the most of their early career income and avoid living paycheck to paycheck.

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Let Your First Paychecks Set the Pattern

One of the most important financial decisions graduates make happens quietly: how they handle their first few paychecks.

When income increases, it is natural for spending to increase as well. This is often referred to as lifestyle inflation which is gradually spending more as you earn more.

Instead of upgrading every part of your lifestyle immediately, consider setting a pattern that prioritizes financial stability first.

For example, when you receive your paycheck, consider directing money toward:

• Savings contributions
• Student loan payments beyond the minimum
• Retirement contributions
• Long-term goals

Building these habits early makes them much easier to maintain over time.

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Automate Good Financial Habits

Once you have a budget and financial plan in place, automation can make it easier to stay consistent.

Many graduates benefit from setting up automatic transfers for:

• Savings accounts
• Student loan payments
• Retirement contributions

Automation removes the temptation to spend money that was intended for savings or financial goals. It also reduces the risk of missed payments, which can affect your credit and lead to fees.

Think of automation as creating a system where your finances work in the background while you focus on building your career.

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Start Retirement Contributions Earlier Than You Think

Retirement may seem far away when you are just beginning your career, but early contributions can have a powerful impact.

Even small contributions made early in your career can grow significantly over time due to compound growth.

If your employer offers a retirement plan with matching contributions, try to contribute at least enough to receive the full match. Employer matching is often considered one of the most valuable financial benefits available. Investing in a ROTH IRA early is also a great way to save for retirement.

Starting early also gives you flexibility later if your financial priorities shift.

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Be Thoughtful About Major Purchases

After securing a full-time job, many graduates begin thinking about major purchases such as a new car, upgraded housing, or furnishing an apartment.

These purchases can be reasonable and sometimes necessary, but it is important to approach them carefully.

Before committing to a large expense, consider:

• How it fits into your monthly budget
• Whether it will increase long-term financial pressure
• If waiting a few months could improve your financial position

Giving yourself time to adjust to your new income can prevent unnecessary financial strain.

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Continue Monitoring Your Credit

Your credit history becomes increasingly important as you transition into adulthood. It can influence your ability to rent housing, qualify for loans, or secure favorable interest rates.

Maintaining healthy credit habits includes:

• Paying all bills on time
• Keeping credit card balances low
• Avoiding unnecessary new credit accounts
• Periodically reviewing your credit report for accuracy

Strong credit is built gradually through consistent behavior over time.

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Use Raises and Promotions Strategically

Early career growth often comes with salary increases, promotions, or job changes. These moments provide valuable opportunities to strengthen your financial position.

Instead of increasing spending at the same pace as your income, consider allocating part of each raise toward:

• Increasing retirement contributions
• Accelerating student loan repayment
• Expanding your emergency savings
• Investing for future goals

This approach allows your lifestyle to improve while also building long-term financial security.

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Avoid the “Paycheck-to-Paycheck” Trap

Even individuals with strong salaries can fall into the pattern of spending everything they earn.

Living paycheck to paycheck can make it difficult to manage unexpected expenses or take advantage of opportunities like relocating for a new job, returning to school, or making a major investment.

Maintaining a margin between income and spending provides flexibility and reduces financial stress.

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Keep Learning About Personal Finance

Financial literacy is not a one-time lesson learned in college. As your income, responsibilities, and goals evolve, so will your financial decisions.

Consider continuing to learn about:

• Investing strategies
• Tax planning
• Insurance needs
• Long-term financial planning

The more informed you are, the more confident you will be when making financial decisions throughout your career.

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Final Thoughts

Preparing financially before graduation helps create a strong starting point. The months and years that follow are where long-term financial habits truly take shape.

By building thoughtful spending habits, automating savings, using income increases wisely, and continuing to learn about personal finance, graduates can move beyond simply earning a paycheck and begin building lasting financial stability.

The financial choices you make early in your career may seem small, but over time they can make a meaningful difference in shaping your financial future.

Graduation is exciting, emotional, and for many students, a little overwhelming. Between finals, celebrations, and planning what comes next, it is easy to overlook important financial details. Yet, the weeks leading up to graduation are one of the best opportunities to organize your finances and prepare for life after college. 

A few simple check-ins now can help you avoid missed payments, credit issues, and unnecessary stress after you leave campus. 

Review Your Student Loans 

Before graduating, make sure you clearly understand your student loans. 

Key questions to answer: 

• Who is your loan servicer? 

• How much do you owe in total? 

• What are your interest rates? 

• When does repayment begin? 

You can find this information by logging into www.studentaid.gov. Many students are surprised to learn they have multiple loan servicers or larger balances than expected. Reviewing this now allows you to plan ahead with confidence. 

Complete Exit Counseling (for Federal Loans) 

If you have federal student loans, you must complete Exit Counseling before leaving school to receive your diploma.  

Exit counseling helps you: 

• Understand your repayment responsibilities 

•Review available repayment plans 

•Learn how interest accrues 

•Know what happens if payments are missed 

You can complete this online at www.studentaid.gov 

Understand Your Grace Period 

Most federal student loans include a grace period (typically six months) after graduation before payments begin. 

Use your grace period strategically: 

• Build a repayment plan 

• Adjust your budget 

• Begin saving for payments 

Keep in mind that interest may continue accruing on certain loans during this period. 

Track Your First Loan Payment Due Date 

Graduates often assume repayment reminders will be difficult to miss. However, outdated emails or physical address changes can complicate communication.  

Log into your loan portal and note: 

• Your exact first payment date 

• Your minimum payment amount 

This small, easy step can help prevent accidental late payments. 

Explore Repayment Options 

Not all repayment plans are the same. 

Depending on your situation, consider: 

• Income-driven repayment plans 

• Standard versus extended repayment 

• Early repayment strategies 

Understanding your options allows you to align your payments with your income and financial goals. 

Build a Post-Graduation Budget 

Your expenses will likely shift after graduation. Rent, utilities, transportation, and loan payments will soon replace your current student spending patterns. 

Consider: 

• Your expected income 

• Fixed expenses (rent, insurance, loan payments) 

• Variable expenses (food, gas, entertainment) 

Even a basic budget can provide structure and reduce financial stress during the transition. 

Plan for Major Upcoming Expenses 

Graduation often brings new financial demands that can be easy to overlook. 

Examples may include: 

• Relocation or moving costs 

• Professional wardrobe expenses 

• Security deposits 

• Transportation changes 

Anticipating these expenses can help you avoid financial surprises and unnecessary stress. 

Start (or Strengthen) Your Emergency Fund 

Post-graduation life often includes unexpected expenses, which an emergency fund can help cover. 

A practical starting goal: 

• $500 to $1,000 as an initial cushion 

• Gradually build toward saving three to six months of personal expenses 

Even small, consistent contributions can make a meaningful difference. 

Check Your Credit Report 

Graduation is an ideal time to review your credit. 

Why this matters: 

• Landlords and lenders may review your credit 

• Errors are more common than expected 

• Good credit supports future financial flexibility 

You can access your free credit report at www.annualcreditreport.com. 

Plan for Health Insurance 

If you are currently covered under a health insurance plan, verify when that coverage ends to avoid a coverage gap. 

Explore options such as: 

• Employer-provided insurance 

• Coverage under a parent’s plan (if eligible) 

• Marketplace plans 

Maintaining continuous coverage is essential. 

Understand Your Employee Benefits 

If you have secured employment, review your benefits package carefully. 

Pay attention to: 

• Health insurance options 

• Retirement plans  

• Employer matching contributions 

These benefits are an integral part of your total compensation. 

Update Important Accounts and Records 

Before leaving campus: 

• Update your email on financial accounts 

• Change your mailing address 

• Save copies of key financial documents 

Losing access to a school email can create many complications and add stress later. 

Begin Thinking About Long-Term Financial Goals 

Graduation is a natural point to reset and refocus. Think about what your desired future looks like.  

Consider: 

• Debt repayment priorities 

• Savings goals 

• Retirement contributions 

• Credit-building habits 

Small decisions early in your career often have a compounding effect. 

Final Thoughts 

Graduation is more than earning a degree. It marks the beginning of financial independence. Taking time now to review your loans, build a plan and understand your financial picture can help you start this next chapter with clarity and confidence. 

Your future self will thank you! 

The holiday season is basically the Super Bowl of shopping. Everywhere you look, there are ads shouting “Best Deal Ever!” or “Lowest Price of the Year!” But how do you know which deals are actually worth your money? And where should you even start looking?

If you’re trying to stretch your budget — or you just want to score something cool without draining your savings — here’s a simple guide to help you shop smarter on Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

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Why These Two Days Matter

Black Friday (the day after Thanksgiving) and Cyber Monday (the following Monday) are known for huge discounts on tech, clothes, and pretty much everything you can think of. Stores use these sales to kick off the holiday shopping season, so it’s when you’ll usually see the biggest price drops.

For students, this is the best time to grab things you need — or want — at way lower prices.

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Where to Find the Best Deals

You don’t have to spend hours scrolling through random websites. These places consistently offer some of the best holiday discounts:

1. Amazon

Amazon goes all-out with week-long sales, lightning deals, and big markdowns on electronics. If you’re hunting for headphones, earbuds, tablets, or gaming accessories, Amazon is usually one of the safest bets.

Tip: Watch out for “limited-time” lightning deals — but don’t rush unless the discount is actually good.

2. Best Buy

If you’re looking for laptops, TVs, or anything electronic, Best Buy is a top spot. They often match or beat Amazon’s prices, and you get the option of in-store pickup.

Great for: School laptops, Chromebook deals, and gaming consoles.

3. Target

Target usually runs Black Friday deals early, sometimes even weeks before the actual day. You’ll see big savings on home items, clothing, personal care, and some tech.

Bonus: Their price-match policy can sometimes still apply during holiday sales.

4. Walmart

Walmart drops major deals all month long. Their online sales start even earlier than in-store ones, so you can often avoid the crowds.

Expect discounts on: TVs, tablets, vacuums, video games, and AirPods.

5. Stores for Students on a Budget

• Old Navy / Gap: Clothes up to 50–60% off
• H&M: Big markdowns on basics and winter wear
• Five Below: Cheap gifts, décor, and stocking stuffers

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Examples of Deals You’ll Usually See

Exact discounts change every year, but these categories regularly have the biggest price drops:

Tech Deals

• Laptops and Chromebooks (often $100–$250 off)
• Wireless earbuds like AirPods or JBL (20–40% off)
• Smart TVs (some drop to under $200)
• Video games and accessories

Personal Electronics

• Fitbits and smartwatches
• Bluetooth speakers
• Phone chargers and accessories

Clothing & Shoes

You can expect 30–60% off at most major clothing stores.

Dorm & Room Items

• Bedding sets
• LED lights
• Mini fridges
• Small appliances

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Smart Shopping Tips for Students

• Sign up for store emails — many stores give early access to sales.
• Use student discounts when you can (Apple, Samsung, and many clothing stores have them).
• Team up with friends or family to split shipping or buy discounted bundles.
• Check return policies so you don’t get stuck with something you don’t want.

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Final Thoughts

Black Friday and Cyber Monday can save you a lot of money — but only if you shop with a plan. Whether you’re looking for school supplies, gifts, or something fun for yourself, knowing where to look and what to expect will help you get the best value without overspending.

Shop smart, stay aware, and enjoy the holiday deals!

The Christmas season is magical, but it can also be expensive. Between family gatherings, festive outings, and holiday meals, gift-giving can start to feel like a strain on your budget. The good news is that a thoughtful present doesn’t need to be costly. In fact, some of the most memorable gifts are budget-friendly, personal, and refreshingly creative.

If you’re looking for unique and affordable Christmas gift ideas, here are some meaningful options that stand out without stretching your wallet.

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1. Personalized DIY Gifts

Handmade gifts carry a special kind of charm. They show that you invested time, not just money, and that thoughtfulness goes a long way.

Ideas to try:

• A custom-painted mug or ornament
• A handwritten recipe book
• A framed print of your own artwork
• A homemade candle or bath salts

These gifts cost very little but feel incredibly personal and intentional.

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2. “Experience” Coupons

Instead of giving a physical item, gift a promise—something fun or meaningful you’ll do together. These are memorable, heartfelt, and often free.

Examples include:

• A movie night coupon
• A home-cooked dinner voucher
• A “chore-free day” pass
• A nature walk, picnic, or coffee date

These experiences often become more valuable than any store-bought gift.

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3. Cozy Comfort Kits

Everyone appreciates something that adds a bit of warmth and relaxation during the winter months. A comfort kit is simple, practical, and easy to customize for any recipient.

Consider including:

• A cozy mug
• Hot chocolate packets, specialty tea, or flavored coffee
• A pair of warm socks
• A small snack, candle, or hand cream

This is a thoughtful and affordable way to give someone a moment of comfort during the holiday season.

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4. Photo Memories

A meaningful photo can be more powerful than any expensive present. Turning a favorite snapshot into a lasting keepsake is both heartfelt and budget-friendly.

Ideas include:

• Framed prints
• Photo magnets
• A small scrapbook or memory journal
• Printed notes or captions that accompany the photos

These gifts carry emotional value and often become cherished long after the holidays.

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5. Homemade Goodies

Baking is one of the most affordable and generous ways to spread holiday cheer. Homemade treats show effort and care while keeping costs low.

Popular options:

• Holiday cookies
• Spiced nuts
• Homemade granola
• Festive chocolate bark

Pack them in glass jars, paper boxes, or tins for a simple yet polished presentation.

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Final Thoughts

Christmas gifting doesn’t have to be expensive to be meaningful. With a little creativity and thoughtfulness, you can give presents that feel personal, memorable, and genuinely appreciated. The best gifts are often the ones that come from the heart—not the ones with the highest price tag.

If you’d like, I can also help you: