Conserving Funds . . .

Hints on how to conserve limited funds have been ably summarised by C. C. Crawford.

"Compare relative values of articles before you purchase. Buy necessities first, and educational necessities first of all. Don't economise by doing without books, tools, and needed class equipment. It is false economy to do so. Get good quality of goods, even though it costs more; it pays in the end. Ask the price before buying, whether you are buying goods or membership in an organisation. Pay your fixed charges, such as room and rent, in advance. Buy a reasonable supply of recreation; it is a necessity. Don't run with the rich crowd—you won't be able to keep up. Be honest and admit poverty, instead of going under false pretences. Remember where the funds that you are spending have come from. Don't raise your standard of living unless you are sure you can keep it up, because it is very hard to go back to a lower standard when once you are accustomed to a higher one. Keep busy, and you will not spend so much. Avoid unnecessary habits of spending, such as treating your friends, and eating between meals. Always keep an emergency reserve on hand; and if you have funds above the needs of the current month, keep them in the savings bank where they will be free from your cheque and will earn a small amount of interest.

"There are some specific suggestions for reducing the expenses of college life which may be worth considering at this point. Patronise second-hand book exchanges. Take good care of books so that they will bring good second-hand prices. Be careful with your books, pens and supplies, to avoid losing them. Repair things before they are ruined. 'A stitch in time saves nine'. Buy paper by the ream instead of by the tablet. Buy ink in a large-size bottle that will last you all the year. Use one loose-leaf notebook for all of your courses. Avoid waste, whatever its form and magnitude."