Key monthly expenses

Spotify (£5.99)

Gym (£25)

Mobile phone (£20)

Law newsletter (£15)

My money

Budgeting

 Do you budget your money? If not, what do you do instead? 

I do budget mainly because I have both short-term and long-term goals I want to invest in, such as holidays, social time with friends and general savings. As I have different sources of income, such as remote and in-person jobs, payday dates look different for each of these incomes.

I decided to budget my money bi-weekly, so that way, at the first budget period, I can budget that income from the first two weeks accordingly. When the next budget period comes, I can budget the next income within the last two weeks.

When I implemented this system, it was more practical to give money to each category for each budget period.

Managing money

How does your lifestyle fit in with your money management? 

As a university student who invests in my future career, I try to centre my money management on what I need to pursue to get to the best position for my future. For example, as a Law student, while balancing lectures and workshops, I frequently go to London for open days or insight days at law firms.

Therefore, in order to prepare myself best for these trips from Manchester, I invest in my wardrobe, travel and my wellbeing, where putting money aside for these trips is consistent and helps me understand the importance of saving for long-term goals. 

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Accessing support

Have you ever accessed University-provided support to help with your finances? Did you find it useful? 

I receive a bursary as part of the Manchester Access Programme (MAP) programme run by the University, which has helped massively with academic costs such as books and equipment.

Furthermore, in my first year of university, I was able to receive the Cost of Living Crisis bursary given by the University, which helped me with travel costs commuting last year. 

My top tips

Budgeting

When it comes to money, budgeting does not need to be difficult or stressful, it can also be exciting and practical when you are saving towards certain goals.

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Asking for help

Money should not be a taboo subject to discuss, you can receive help if you are struggling.

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Commuting

As I live at home, commuting can be expensive. Ensure transport expenses are included in your budget. 

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