The results of these two simple tests will help you find the best suggestions for managing your time and money. Okay, let’s start!
Illustration: Samantha Bullis/The Dialog
Group A
1. Do you need to pay for your housing?
a. Yes b. No
2. Do you need to pay your tuition fees by yourself?
a. Yes b. No
3. Do you have RESP support?
a. No b. Yes
4. Do you have OSAP support?
a. No b. Yes
5. Are you a local student?
a. No b. Yes
If you have three or more “a”, you are DRY. If you have less than three “a”, you are FULL.
Group B
1. Do you live in downtown Toronto?
a. Yes b. No
2. Do you have a car?
a. Yes b. No
3. Are you in a relationship?
a. No b. Yes
4. Do you have eight or more classes this semester?
a. No b. Yes
5. Do you need to work?
a. No b. Yes
If you have three or more “b”, you are a LAKE. If you have less than three “b”, you are a RIVER.
Results: Mix your answers from group A and group B to find out what your time and money management suggestions are:
Dry River: Worst case! You don’t have enough money or time.
1. Try to find more roommates to live with.
2. Buy used textbooks.
3. Manage your meals or pack a lunch.
4. Give up the data plan for your mobile. GBC provides free Wi-Fi.
5. Buy only what you need, not what you want.
Dry Lake: You have time but no money. Our suggestions are:
1. Work! Work! Work!
2. Walk, bicycle, car-pool or ride public transit only.
3. Use second-hand textbooks or lease them.
4. Buy $5 meals from Chef on the Run in the atrium of the hospitality building at St. James campus.
5. Spend more time studying. Apply for as many scholarships you can.
Full River: You have money but no time. Our suggestions are:
1. Move to downtown near your campus.
2. Minimize your school days.
3. Diminish your texting hours, facebook hours or net browsing hours.
4. Plan your daily and weekly schedule.
5. Having a smartphone helps. This time you need a data plan.
Full Lake: You are lucky to have enough time and money.
1. Spend some extra time studying.
2. Try volunteering or join a student club! Add to the work experience that’s already on your resume.
3. Start a tax-free savings account.
4. Make time to exercise or play a sport.
5. Go on vacation!
