Budget-Friendly DIY Holiday Gifts: Thoughtful and Creative Ideas

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


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!

Top 5 Holiday Gifts Under $20; for Everyone

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.


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.

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!

Social Media Safety: Essential Tips for UW-Whitewater Students

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

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.

5 Daily Practices to Help Protect Your Identity

1. Use Strong Passwords

Creating complex passwords is your first line of defense. Aim for at least 12 characters, mixing letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using easily guessed information, like birthdays. Do not use the same password for very account, diversify your password selection. Consider a password manager to generate and store unique passwords for each account.

2. Be Cautious with Personal Information

Think twice before sharing personal details on social media or public forums. Even seemingly harmless information can be pieced together to create a complete profile of you. That information is what tech-savvy thieves use for scams, phishing, and account theft. Adjust your privacy settings to limit who can see your posts.

3. Monitor Your Accounts Regularly

It is crucial to keep an eye on all of your accounts. It is smart to look over your credit card and bank statements regularly in order to catch unauthorized payments. You can set up alerts for unusual activity in your accounts. Early detection is key to mitigating potential damage from identity theft.

4. Use Secure Wi-Fi Connections

Avoid public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions. If you must use it, consider a VPN to encrypt your internet connection, making it harder for others to intercept your data. For your personal Wi-Fi it is recommended that you turn on your router firewall to protect your Wi-Fi from viruses, malware, and hackers.

5. Click with Caution

Be careful when clicking on unfamiliar links. Hackers and Cyberthieves will make fake links that install viruses and allow personal information to be leaked. When entering personal information into a website make sure it is a reputable and secure website. Secure websites will encrypt and scramble important information to ensure hackers cant obtain them.

Discovering Free Resources at UW-Whitewater: A Student’s Guide

As a student at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, you have access to a ton of resources that can enhance your academic experience, support your well-being, and help you make the most of your time on campus—all at no cost! Here’s a rundown of some valuable free resources available to you.

1. Academic Support Services

Tutoring Services

The Academic Support Center offers free tutoring in a variety of subjects. Whether you need help in math, writing, or specific major courses, you can find tutors ready to assist you. Check their schedule for drop-in hours or make an appointment to get one-on-one help.

Writing Center

Need assistance with a paper? The Writing Center provides guidance at any stage of the writing process. Trained tutors can help you brainstorm, organize, and polish your work. This service is invaluable for improving your writing skills and earning better grades.

2. Health and Wellness Resources

Counseling Services

Mental health is just as important as physical health. UW-Whitewater offers free counseling services to help students navigate personal challenges, stress, or anxiety. Individual and group therapy sessions are available, ensuring you have support when you need it.

Health Services

The campus health center provides a range of services, including basic medical care, immunizations, and health education. Students can access these services without worrying about hefty bills, making it easier to prioritize your health.

3. Career Development Resources

Career & Leadership Development

The Career & Leadership Development office offers a variety of resources to help you prepare for your future. From resume workshops to mock interviews, these services are designed to equip you with the skills needed to secure internships and jobs post-graduation.

Career Fairs

Take advantage of the campus career fairs that occur throughout the year. These events connect you with employers looking to hire students. Plus, they offer a fantastic opportunity to network and practice your professional skills.

4. Libraries and Research Assistance

Andersen Library

The Andersen Library is not just a place to study; it’s a hub of resources. They offer huge book and journal collections, librarians are available to help you with research, citations, and using academic databases. Don’t hesitate to ask for help; it’s part of their job!

Technology Resources

Need a laptop or other tech equipment? The library offers free loaner laptops and other devices, ensuring you have the tools you need for your coursework. The 4U program also offers discounted computer hardware and discounted and free computer software. Plus, there are plenty of study spaces and resources to help you stay productive.

5. Campus Activities and Organizations

Student Organizations

Getting involved in student organizations is a great way to meet new people and develop leadership skills. Most clubs and organizations are free to join, offering a variety of activities that cater to diverse interests—from academic clubs to cultural and recreational groups.

Events and Workshops

Keep an eye on the campus calendar for free events, workshops, and guest lectures. These events not only enrich your education but also provide networking opportunities and a chance to engage with the broader campus community.

Conclusion

At UW-Whitewater, you have a plethora of free resources at your fingertips. Taking advantage of these services can significantly enhance your academic journey, support your personal growth, and help you thrive during your time at university. Make it a point to explore what’s available and don’t hesitate to reach out—your success is a priority

National Wellness Month

August is National Wellness Month, which was founded to encourage people to focus on their health – self-care, stress management, and healthy routines. But financial health is a big part of a person’s overall wellness too. Financial issues contribute to stress, put strain on relationships, and diminish self-esteem. Addressing your finances during National Wellness Month can help you address the core causes of your personal wellness challenges. As you participate in National Wellness Month, take time also to focus on your finances – commit to taking action on at least one financial area that you feel may have impact on your overall health and well-being.

ROI and your degree

Going to college for most is large financial commitment, according to an article written by Mealanie Hanson for the Education Data Initiative, the average student loan debts for students are as follows:

The average undergraduate student loan debt balance is $37,337
The average debt among master’s degree holders is $83,651
The average debt among PhD holders is $125,276


Below is a list put together by Methodology, of the top majors ranked on average starting salary, with 1 being the highest and 163 being the lowest:

  1. Petroleum Engineering: $107,954
  2. Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering: $91,562
  3. Nuclear Engineering: $86,112
  4. Computer Engineering: $79,540
  5. Chemical Engineering: $78,322
  6. Computer Science: $77,223
  7. Actuarial Science: $76,528
  8. Electrical Engineering: $75,120
  9. Mechanical Engineering: $73,133
  10. Applied Mathematics: $72,565
  11. Aerospace Engineering: $72,070
  12. Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering: $71,593
  13. Materials Science: $71,467
  14. Economics: $70,590
  15. General Engineering: $69,172
  16. Finance: $68,916
  17. Statistics and Decision Science: $68,213
  18. Materials Engineering and Materials Science: $68,206
  19. Biological Engineering: $67,843
  20. Miscellaneous Engineering: $67,815
  21. Business Economics: $67,790
  22. Biomedical Engineering: $67,239
  23. Management Information Systems and Statistics: $67,232
  24. Construction Services: $67,183
  25. Civil Engineering: $66,658
  26. Architectural Engineering: $64,345
  27. Operations Logistics and E-Commerce: $63,712
  28. Engineering and Industrial Management: $63,266
  29. Public Policy: $63,145
  30. Information Sciences: $63,024
  31. Electrical Engineering Technology: $62,647
  32. Miscellaneous Engineering Technologies: $62,470
  33. Engineering Mechanics Physics and Science: $62,311
  34. Environmental Engineering: $61,170
  35. Mechanical Engineering Related Technologies: $60,869
  36. Mathematics: $60,704
  37. Computer and Information Systems: $60,101
  38. Nursing: $59,569
  39. Accounting: $59,014
  40. Computer Administration Management and Security: $58,943
  41. Physics: $58,623
  42. Nuclear, Industrial Radiology, And Biological Technologies: $58,345
  43. Transportation Sciences and Technologies: $58,018
  44. Industrial Production Technologies: $57,144
  45. General Business: $56,918
  46. Computer Programming and Data Processing: $56,578
  47. Engineering Technologies: $56,556
  48. Miscellaneous Business and Medical Administration: $56,070
  49. Miscellaneous Social Sciences: $55,710
  50. International Business: $55,273
  51. Marketing and Marketing Research: $54,908
  52. Agricultural Economics: $54,696
  53. Food Science: $54,117
  54. International Relations: $53,927
  55. Business Management and Administration: $53,422
  56. Medical Technologies Technicians: $52,910
  57. Computer Networking and Telecommunications: $52,425
  58. Agriculture Production and Management: $52,130
  59. Political Science and Government: $52,064
  60. Pharmacy Pharmaceutical Sciences and Administration: $51,934
  61. Architecture: $51,911
  62. Medical Assisting Services: $51,722
  63. Advertising and Public Relations: $51,656
  64. Electrical, Mechanical, And Precision Technologies and Production: $51,241
  65. Interdisciplinary Social Sciences: $51,171
  66. Cognitive Science and Biopsychology: $50,571
  67. Human Resources and Personnel Management: $50,302
  68. Astronomy and Astrophysics: $49,648
  69. Industrial and Organizational Psychology: $49,521
  70. Multi-Disciplinary or General Science: $48,838
  71. Chemistry: $48,692
  72. Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology: $48,626
  73. General Agriculture: $48,568
  74. Miscellaneous Agriculture: $48,483
  75. Communications: $48,087
  76. Pre-Law and Legal Studies: $47,899
  77. Neuroscience: $47,815
  78. Biochemical Sciences: $47,542
  79. Molecular Biology: $47,107
  80. Genetics: $46,795
  81. Geosciences: $46,614
  82. Physical Sciences: $46,421
  83. Microbiology: $46,397
  84. Plant Science and Agronomy: $46,311
  85. Health and Medical Administrative Services: $46,230
  86. Journalism: $46,015
  87. Miscellaneous Education: $45,945
  88. Geography: $45,833
  89. Criminal Justice and Fire Protection: $45,819
  90. Geology and Earth Science: $45,792
  91. Hospitality Management: $45,709
  92. Intercultural and International Studies: $45,357
  93. French German Latin And Other Common Foreign Language Studies: $45,323
  94. Health and Medical Preparatory Programs: $45,317
  95. Soil Science: $45,304
  96. Public Administration: $45,296
  97. Commercial Art and Graphic Design: $45,273
  98. Miscellaneous Biology: $45,251
  99. Other Foreign Languages: $45,028
  100. Criminology: $44,971
  101. Oceanography: $44,952
  102. History: $44,736
  103. Interdisciplinary Social Sciences: $44,639
  104. Philosophy and Religious Studies: $44,629
  105. Forestry: $44,339
  106. Clinical Psychology: $44,336
  107. Sociology: $44,075
  108. Communication Technologies: $43,883
  109. United States History: $43,674
  110. Mass Media: $43,455
  111. Physiology: $43,441
  112. Botany: $43,437
  113. Miscellaneous Fine Arts: $43,407
  114. Area Ethnic and Civilization Studies: $43,295
  115. Treatment Therapy Professions: $43,289
  116. Environmental Science: $43,187
  117. Art History and Criticism: $43,098
  118. Nutrition Sciences: $42,845
  119. Biology: $42,325
  120. Natural Resources Management: $42,053
  121. Liberal Arts: $41,843
  122. Mathematics Teacher Education: $41,767
  123. General Education: $41,528
  124. General Social Sciences: $41,303
  125. Physical Fitness Parks Recreation and Leisure: $41,228
  126. Community and Public Health: $41,224
  127. English Language and Literature: $41,149
  128. Miscellaneous Health Medical Professions: $40,971
  129. Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies: $40,918
  130. Psychology: $40,807
  131. Film Video and Photographic Arts: $40,764
  132. General Medical and Health Services: $40,623
  133. Special Needs Education: $40,464
  134. Physical and Health Education Teaching: $40,178
  135. Secondary Teacher Education: $40,048
  136. Animal Sciences: $40,040
  137. Science and Computer Teacher Education: $39,647
  138. Fine Arts: $39,404
  139. Language and Drama Education: $39,336
  140. Art and Music Education: $38,858
  141. Teacher Education: Multiple Levels: $38,834
  142. Social Science or History Teacher Education: $38,775
  143. Cosmetology Services and Culinary Arts: $38,654
  144. Linguistics and Comparative Language and Literature: $38,558
  145. Miscellaneous Psychology: $38,273
  146. Family and Consumer Sciences: $38,102
  147. Humanities: $38,006
  148. Educational Psychology: $37,543
  149. Human Services and Community Organization: $37,533
  150. Elementary Education: $37,509
  151. Composition and Rhetoric: $37,287
  152. Anthropology and Archeology: $37,187
  153. Music: $37,092
  154. Communication Disorders Sciences and Services: $37,088
  155. Ecology: $36,862
  156. Social Work: $36,751
  157. Counseling Psychology: $36,672
  158. Theology and Religious Vocations: $36,515
  159. Zoology: $36,325
  160. Early Childhood Education: $36,233
  161. Studio Arts: $35,812
  162. Visual and Performing Arts: $35,787
  163. Drama and Theater Arts: $35,477

With all this information, and starting salaries, we can see how important it is to pick the right degree. Choosing the wrong education can have a negative financial impact on you, holding you accountable to pay student loans well beyond the typical 10-year period. However, choosing a degree with a higher paying average salary can set you up for financial success and freedom in the near future after graduation. With that, this list is not to deter you away from your dream job or major that you enjoy, but to give you a better perspective and understanding of the expected finances one will have when starting their dream job, so they can continue striving for financial freedom.

What is your major, and why? What do you plan on doing upon completion of your education, and why?

It’s That Time of the Year Again!

No, not holiday season but scholarship season! UW Whitewater’s scholarships for 2024-2025 school year will open on December 1, 2023. The scholarships are now viewable in the students WINS account and can be searched by the students college (Letters & Sciences) or non applicable. We suggest students search in both areas to maximize their opportunity for scholarships and apply for all they can. Scholarships are free money and who wouldn’t want free money to go to school! PLUS the more scholarships awarded the less student loans a student will need.

But…don’t stop the search there! Students check with your family members to see if the company they work for has any scholarships available. Check with in your home town to see if any business’s, local Moose Lodge, VFW Hall etc. are awarding scholarships.

Lastly don’t forget to search for scholarships this spring online. UWW’s financial aid office as a list of safe scholarship websites. For more information on scholarship scams go to: https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-avoid-scholarship-financial-aid-scams

Good Luck!

Impulse Spending is on the Rise!

In a recent survey Sarah O’Brien a Personal finance reporter found that 45% of the respondents know they are overspending since last reported in April 2021.  Credit card debit is at nearly $1 trillion in 2021 and is climbing.  Below are some tips to help/curb the overspending urges:

1. Start a budget or if you already have a budget it is time to re-evaluate your current budget.

2. Think about your goals: to be debt-free, go on vacation, buy a home and write them down and before you act on your spending look over your goals.

3. Leave the item in your shopping cart for at least 24 hours.  Do you have the strong need for the item or have you forgotten about it?

4. Unsubscribe from marketing emails.

5. Take your credit cards off of your apps on your cell phone.

Pick one, two or all of the above tips and implement a plan to work towards your goals and improve your overall financial wellness.  Take charge of your finances now to set yourself up for future success and freedom.  For more information or to set up a financial coaching session, contact the UWW Financial Literacy Center.