Go out clubbing - without getting (your wallet) wasted

• If you don't mind getting to a club before it's jumping, you'll avoid the line and the cover charge.
  
  
• If you're determined to go to the bar , cut your costs in half by drinking at home before hitting the bar - ALWAYS be sure to have a designated driver both to and from the club.
  
  
• Volunteer to be the designated driver. Some places offer free soft drinks for designated drivers.

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Go concert crazy

• Saving money in concert tickets can be as simple as changing your listening habits. Attend concerts at smaller venues by local or indie bands. You can always find a $5 - $10 concert you'll enjoy as much as the $80 show.
  
  
• Try and win tickets to see hot bands through radio contests.

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Go "star" gazing

• Sign up as an extra for movies filmed in your town. You'll get a day's pay, free lunch, and maybe meet a few stars. There's never a charge to list as an extra with a reputable company, so avoid those that charge high fees or force you to take pricey training classes. Check out www.reelwest.com for good talent agencies.
  
  
• Students in larger cities with television stations, like Toronto and Vancouver, can attend television show tapings for free -- search online for talk shows or cooking shows filmed in your city.
  
  
• Save your ticket stubs from the first run movie theatres - they can get you free or discounted rentals at your local video store. Use these to rent old favourites and cult hit classics.
  
  
• Most video stores have discount nights -- be sure to stop by then. If your local store has a Guaranteed New Release policy and they're out, make sure you ask if they have a copy - if they don't have any at all, they have to give you a coupon to rent it free next time.
  
  
• America's Funniest Home Videos, Boston Public -- whatever it is, congregate at a friend's place, pitching in for beverages and snacks. Survivor started a "Survivor" night phenomenon where people would gather at bars, pubs, and in each other's home just to watch the show. You can do the same with the Sopranos or whatever show is more fun to take in with friends.

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Grab a bite to eat

• Eating out can eat a hole in your wallet. Try unique hole in the wall restaurants, and find a new 'great little place' you can brag about to friends.
  
  
• When eating out, use coupons, choose water instead of expensive sodas or alcoholic beverages, and skip the appetisers and dessert menu, but don't forget to tip the student serving you!
  
  
• Make up cards with your name and phone number on them to drop in business card draws at local restaurants.
  
  
• When you find a great price on snacks, soda or alcohol, buy in bulk.
  
  
• Taste test no name brands, and buy those instead of paying for a beer company's cool commercials.
  
  
• Try connecting with friends in a coffee shop and rejuvenating your friendship.

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Sarah Deveau is a graduate of the University of Calgary. Born in Halifax, Nova Scotia, she spent her teenager years living in Hamilton and Calgary, where she now resides with her husband Keith, and her cat, Parker. During her five years in university, and her husband's seven years, they incurred a combined debt of just $6,000. Through the use of scholarships, part-time and full-time jobs, Sarah and Keith paid for their education even while getting married, moving out, and buying vehicles. She is the author of Sink or Swim: Get Your Degree Without Drowning in Debt (Dundurn), a 'how to' guide to obtaining a post-secondary education without incurring massive student loans. This book guides students through their post-secondary education, encouraging them to live within their means by being creative with their lifestyle. Article reprinted with permission of author.

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• Tired of studying? Cheap fun ideas from a student's point of view
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• Top 10 tips to survive university