{"id":14329,"date":"2025-01-15T11:23:06","date_gmt":"2025-01-15T11:23:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.york.ac.uk\/student-voices\/?p=14329"},"modified":"2025-01-15T11:23:07","modified_gmt":"2025-01-15T11:23:07","slug":"life-as-a-financially-independent-student","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.york.ac.uk\/student-voices\/2025\/01\/15\/life-as-a-financially-independent-student\/","title":{"rendered":"A guide to life as a financially independent student"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Unfortunately, low finances are a key setback that stop many students attending university, but it should not get in your way. Coming from a single-parent household, I am in charge of my own finances at uni, and have had to search for employment and financial support myself. There is lots of support out there, and finances should not stop you from furthering your education!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Two<\/a>
Fitting in part-time work around studying can be tricky, but it’s definitely do-able!<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Part-time work<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Finding part-time work<\/a> can be stressful, especially alongside studying for your degree. I was lucky enough to get a job within the Students’ Union<\/a>, working as a helpdesk assistant. I would recommend finding employment within the University, as they understand our busy schedules, and it is convenient when you are already on campus! There are also lots of cute cafes in the city centre that are often looking for part-time staff. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Careers and Placements<\/a> is a great place for employment advice. They can set up mock interviews, or check over your CV before applying for a job. Make the most of this free support!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Top tip<\/strong>: Set aside some time to apply for part-time jobs and contact the Careers and Placements team<\/a> for advice or support.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Budgeting<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"IMG_7584.jpg\"
try to Save some money to explore the city<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

You have a part-time job and you’re earning money – that’s great – but you now need to budget sensibly. Otherwise, you might spend it all on going out (I would have anyway!) <\/p>\n\n\n\n

I have found that creating a weekly, realistic budget is the best way to keep on top of your finances<\/strong>. If you know you have lots of social plans that week, allow yourself more money to spend. However, on those weeks when you plan on living in the library to finish your last-minute deadlines, try to spend less. For example, take your own food to study sessions – campus food can be expensive. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

As a low-income student, I had to accept that I wouldn’t be shopping at Waitrose or M&S, instead, I would set myself a \u00a330-\u00a340 budget for weekly food. That way, I didn’t feel the need to go as much because I already had enough food prepped for the week. It’s also important to save some money aside to treat yourself- definitely explore York, it’s such a beautiful city.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Extra support<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The University of York is very helpful if you reach out to them. There are scholarships available<\/a>, some linked with your department or the University in general. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

As soon as I started university, I was successful in applying for a scholarship to support me throughout my three years<\/strong>! As well as this, there are always competitions to enter – we are emailed about them weekly – where you can win money, vouchers or even electronics. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"A
The beautiful green surroundings of Halifax college<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Depending on your household income, you may also be eligible for a bursary<\/a>, which supports your rent payments, as well as general day-to-day spending. There is also further support if you wish to complete a placement year or study abroad. Including the York Futures Scholarship<\/a>, which financially supports you during your additional year, and means I can study in Denmark next year!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Top tips:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n