Students blog

As a born and raised Southern Californian, who lived 15 minutes away from the coast, and now attends college on California's central coast, I have a fair share of beach experience. In my “professional” opinion, I have created the ultimate beach tour guide with some of my favorite and not-so-favorite beaches that you should be sure to visit (or not to visit) the next time you find yourself in California, whether during Spring Break or any other time of year.

Crescent Bay Beach in Laguna Beach

This is my all-time favorite beach because of how perfect it is! The water there is always so clear and warm (most of the time), and the waves are not extremely big, but still big enough to dive under. Sometimes, if you’re lucky enough, you can see little baby leopard sharks and other fish swimming around the shore because of how clear and blue the water is. After a long, fun day at this beach, you don’t have to worry about bringing sand into your car either because there’s a shower station and bathroom right near the entrance of the beach too, and trust me, a shower station is not common in Laguna Beach.

There are a couple of downsides to going to this beach, but they shouldn’t be the reason you miss out on such a perfect beach! The first downside is the beach is on the small side. During busier seasons, Crescent Bay Beach can seem more crowded than other beaches because of how little beach there is. Despite this, there’s never been a time that I’ve gone to this beach and not found a place to lay out my towel. The other downside is parking. While parking is free, it’s mainly residential parking. This means that it can be hard to find a parking spot, but if you keep looking around, you will get a parking spot, I promise. I just hope that you’re good at parallel parking!

Strands Beach & Salt Creek Beach in Dana Point

I typically do not go down to the water at these beaches too often, because the walk down from the parking lot is long and steep. These two beaches are still on my list though because they are such a great spot to watch the sunset over the water and enjoy the ocean breeze.

At Strands Beach, you can watch the sunset from your car because the parking lot is on top of a hill that overlooks a neighborhood full of grand houses and the water. At Salt Creek Beach, you have to walk a little bit in order to find the perfect sunset-watching area. When you start walking down to the beach, you’ll come across this giant grass hill, and this is where everyone gathers to watch the sunset. In both places, you’ll get to watch a beautiful sunset, no doubt about it.

Doheny State Beach in Dana Point

This beach is definitely not my go-to swimming beach, but it is my go-to bonfire beach. Doheny Beach has a lot of bonfire pits that you can use for free (only have to pay for parking). What’s nice about it is that most of the pits are right next to the parking lot, so you can pull up your car and use your trunk for good seating (kind of) close to the fire. The pits aren’t that far away from the water either. However, if you choose to go swimming in the water, I hope you have strong ankles because rocks are in place of the sand. The rocks tumble and roll with the waves, making it highly likely that your toes will get stubbed. But if you brave it far enough into the water, you’ll start to feel sand!

Avila Beach in San Luis Obispo County

Finally, a Central Coast beach! I might be biased when I say this since this beach is so close to where I live now, but Avila Beach is my favorite Central Coast beach. I don’t go in the water, though, because it’s colder on the Central Coast than in Laguna Beach. This beach is nice in that it has free parking, a bathroom and shower station, restaurants, and my favorite part, swings! It’s also nice because the beach is big, so it doesn’t feel as crowded as other beaches I’ve encountered. Then again, the air is colder, and the water isn’t as clear blue, making it less appealing to swim in.

Whether you’re visiting during your Spring Break, the summer, or any other time of year, I hope you find these recommendations helpful in finding the perfect spot for your beach adventure!

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The ability to be creative is important to the human experience, but many people find it difficult to reach their full creative potential. Embracing the art of everyday innovation can put us on a transforming road, regardless of whether we feel "uncreative” or confined by the routines of our daily life. Let’s examine the depths of creativity, dispel common misconceptions, and explore doable solutions to help you tap into your creative potential and introduce innovation into every aspect of your life. 

Understanding the Creative Mind: Debunking Myths and Unveiling the Truths 

Creativity is often misunderstood, surrounded by myths that limit its potential. Here are a few common misconceptions and reveal the truths about the creative mind. 
 
Myth #1: "Creativity is only for the chosen few." The truth is that creativity resides within all of us. It is not exclusive to artists or geniuses but is a universal human trait waiting to be nurtured. 
 
Myth #2: "Creativity follows a specific formula." In reality, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to creativity. Each individual has their unique creative process, and it's essential to embrace and trust your own way of thinking and creating. 

Overcoming Creative Blocks: Tips to Rekindle Inspiration and Break Through Barriers 

At times, creative blocks can hinder our creative flow. Let’s explore practical techniques to overcome these blocks and reignite inspiration. 
 
Tip #1: Reframing Problems: A fresh perspective can breathe new life into creativity. By reframing challenges as opportunities, we can shift our mindset and discover innovative solutions. 
 
Tip #2: Embracing Constraints: Limitations can fuel creativity. By embracing constraints, we are forced to think creatively and find unconventional approaches. 

Nurturing Creativity in Daily Life: Small Habits with Big Impact 

Infusing creativity into our daily lives can have a profound impact on our overall well-being and ability to generate innovative ideas. What practical habits and rituals nurture creativity? 
 
Habit #1: Journaling: Writing down our thoughts, ideas, and observations can stimulate creative thinking and serve as a valuable resource for future inspiration. 
 
Habit #2: Engaging in Mindful Practices: Mindfulness cultivates a state of present-moment awareness, allowing us to tap into our creative flow. We'll explore mindfulness exercises such as meditation, deep breathing, and sensory awareness. 
 
Habit #3: Allowing Time for Play and Exploration: Engaging in playful activities and exploring new hobbies can spark creativity by encouraging experimentation and curiosity. 

Embracing Multidisciplinary Thinking: Finding Inspiration Outside Your Comfort Zone 

Cross-pollination of ideas from different disciplines can lead to breakthrough innovations. Here are two benefits of multidisciplinary thinking and how to embrace it. 
 
Benefit #1: Fresh Perspectives: When we venture beyond our comfort zones, we expose ourselves to new perspectives, ideas, and approaches that can inspire innovative thinking. 
 
Benefit #2: Connecting Dots: By drawing connections between seemingly unrelated fields, we can uncover unique insights and create original solutions. 

The Power of Collaboration: Fostering Creative Synergy with Others 

Collaboration has the power to amplify creative potential. How can collaboration enhance creativity and provide strategies for effective creative partnerships? 
 
Strategy #1: Active Listening and Empathy: By truly listening to others' perspectives and empathizing with their experiences, we can foster an environment of trust and respect, which fuels collaborative creativity. 
 
Strategy #2: Constructive Feedback: Constructive feedback plays a vital role in refining ideas and pushing creative boundaries. We'll delve into techniques for giving and receiving feedback that encourages growth and innovation. 

Embracing Failure as a Catalyst for Innovation: Lessons from the Great Creatives 

Failure is an unavoidable part of the creative process.  
 
Lesson #1: Resilience and Persistence: Failure teaches us the importance of perseverance and resilience. We'll examine how successful creatives embraced setbacks, learned from them, and kept moving forward. 
 
Lesson #2: Learning from Mistakes: Failures provide valuable insights and lessons. We'll explore techniques for analyzing failures, extracting lessons, and applying those lessons to future creative endeavors. 
 
Lesson #3: Embracing the Growth Mindset: Adopting a growth mindset allows us to view failure as an opportunity for growth and improvement. We'll delve into strategies for cultivating a growth mindset and embracing the iterative nature of the creative process. 

Mindfulness and Creativity: Cultivating Presence for Enhanced Imagination 

The practice of mindfulness can significantly enhance our creative thinking. Mindfulness practices cultivate presence and nurture our imaginative abilities. 
 
Practice #1: Meditation and Mindful Awareness: Regular meditation practices help quiet the mind, increase focus, and tap into the depths of our creative potential. 
 
Practice #2: Embracing Flow States: Flow states, characterized by deep focus and immersion in an activity, are fertile grounds for creativity. We'll discuss strategies for entering and nurturing flow states.

Tapping into the Subconscious: The Role of Dreams and Daydreaming in Creative Thinking 

The subconscious mind holds untapped creative treasures. Dreams and daydreaming can unlock the depths of our imagination. 
 
Practice #1: Dream Journaling: Keeping a dream journal allows us to capture fleeting insights and symbolic imagery that can be used as creative prompts. 
 
Practice #2: Intentional Daydreaming: Carving out intentional time for daydreaming nurtures our ability to wander into unexplored realms of imagination and generates new ideas. 
 
Practice #3: Mind-Wandering and Incubation: Allowing the mind to wander freely and taking breaks from intense focus can provide the subconscious with the space to connect dots and form novel connections. 
 
By embracing these strategies and practices, you'll embark on a journey of unlocking your creative potential, infusing innovation into your everyday life, and experiencing the joy and fulfillment that come from living a creatively inspired existence. 
 
Unlocking your creative potential and embracing the art of everyday innovation is a transformative journey that can enrich every aspect of your life. By adopting a mindset of curiosity, exploring new perspectives, and nurturing your creative energy, you'll discover the power to think differently, challenge the status quo, and bring forth innovative solutions.

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started! 

Is it February already? I’ve always found it super fun to set some New Year's resolutions for myself in January... but they can be so difficult to maintain once the month is up! And I’m not alone; about 50% of people will give up on their resolutions by the end of January, so, now that it’s February, how are you doing with your resolutions? Whether you’ve restarted a couple of times or have been going strong since the ball drop, here are some tips to get your momentum back and keep your resolutions going all year long!

1) Reflect on your progress so far.

Take some time to reflect on how close you are to reaching your goal or how many goals you’ve accomplished already! Take pride in the progress you’ve made so far. This can be a great motivator to continue working hard for the rest of the year!

2) Set new goals.

Setting new goals can also be a great way to inspire yourself. If you achieved your goal in January, think of a new challenge. If you did not reach your goal, that’s okay! You can always reevaluate your resolution throughout the year to accommodate your current lifestyle and availability.

3) Reward yourself!

It is so important to be kind to yourself and reward your achievements. Maybe you get to go to your favorite restaurant, order your favorite drink at Starbucks, or buy those jeans you’ve been eyeing for weeks. Whether your reward is big or small, make it something meaningful to you that will help you stay on track.

4) Get a friend or family member involved.

It’s always so much more fun to accomplish a goal with someone else! Get someone close to you to join you in your resolution, so you can hold each other accountable and track your progress together. If you’re super competitive, get a whole group involved and see who can stick to the resolution the longest!

5) Make your resolutions fun!

The best advice I can give is to make your resolution something you will enjoy doing. Maybe you want to get more exercise in 2024, but you dread going to the gym. Instead, choose a place nearby to explore, grab your headphones, and go for a walk or run outdoors! Or maybe you want to maintain a better diet, but raw veggies aren’t your thing. Look up some recipes for healthier versions of your favorite dishes. There are so many ways to make your resolutions more fun!

Overall, resolutions can be hard to keep. But give yourself some grace and try one of these tips if you are feeling down on yourself this new year. You might be surprised by how much of a difference a small change can make!

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started! 

Making the decision to go to college can be a challenging one for many individuals. People pursue higher education for various reasons, often revolving around job opportunities and career support that can shape their future. It's crucial to keep your goals in mind throughout your college journey and understand why you're there. For me, the primary objective was to ensure job security and I knew getting a good internship experience would be important. Here are four tips that helped me discover internship opportunities.

Engage in the Process

The initial step in landing an internship is to proactively put yourself out there, starting as early as possible. Even if it's just for practice, engaging in this process prepares you for the real deal. Attending career fairs at your school, especially those tailored to your major, is a fantastic idea, as it demonstrates your proactive approach and a clear understanding of your priorities, even as a freshman. Drawing from my own experience as an accounting major, attending career fairs as a freshman allowed me to engage with prominent accounting firms.

Be Professional

During career fairs, presenting yourself professionally is crucial. Dress appropriately, bring resumes to distribute to those you engage with, and inquire about opportunities suitable for your age and experience level. Don't forget to smile, share a laugh, find common ground, and collect business cards. Once it is over, follow up with a polite email to leave a lasting impression for future encounters. Building connections at these events, even if the timing isn't perfect for internships, establishes a foundation for future opportunities and networking in the professional world.

Build a Network

Don’t get discouraged if you don’t find many internship opportunities during your freshman year. Joining an accounting and finance professional fraternity on campus exposed me to more networking opportunities, leading to numerous offers from top firms during my sophomore year. Joining other campus organizations outside your academic interest is another effective way to expand your network.

Utilize LinkedIn

Build your LinkedIn profile as soon as you start college and then use it to connect with everyone you meet at career fairs, professional organization events, etc. These connections may lead to job recommendations and offer insights into securing internships and jobs. I highly recommend connecting with as many people as possible on such platforms, expanding your network beyond the confines of your campus. This played a crucial role for me in securing a prestigious internship with the world's largest Big 4 accounting firm for the summer after my sophomore year. That was followed by a return offer, which set the stage for a seamless transition to a full-time job upon graduation!

Securing that initial opportunity is undeniably challenging, but once you do, you're on the path to a potentially stable career. Even if you discover during an internship that it's not your ideal fit, the experience on your resume will undoubtedly set you apart in future job searches.

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started! 

My dream came true last summer, and I am still living in the past. I was able to do an international internship in Florence, Italy and what a trip it was! I was blessed with an opportunity to work with two brands, Steve Madden and UGG, to monitor global markets for new and upcoming styles and trends, import and export shoes (especially when preparing for Florence Men’s Fashion Week), and assist sales vendors in the English language.

I was able to learn side-by-side with my coworkers to navigate international business and open my eyes to another part of the world. My coworkers welcomed me with open arms, and our first step was to try and tackle the language barrier. They were the kindest and most encouraging women that could welcome me in such a new environment. We became friends easily and I still talk to them today!

Now don’t believe this blog will be all work no play! I am a huge foodie and Italy exceeded my expectations beyond belief, and they were pretty high to begin with. From the Florentine Bistec, to watching my pasta be cooked in an alfredo cheese wheel, I was able to experience every foodie’s dream: eating high quality and volume of great food. There were plenty of family style restaurants that had more outside seating than you can imagine, and the people-watching was top tier, too. Eating in front of the Duomo is a memory I will never forget.

I mainly stayed in Florence throughout the summer for the internship, but I was able to travel all over Italy and even made my way to Austria and Hungary for a bit. The northern and southern parts of Italy were different but held the same atmosphere. The northern Tuscany region was rich with breathtaking views of rolling green hills and vineyards for miles (for my fellow U.S. residents I promise I am 21!). The southern part was all beach and ocean which did not disappoint at all.

I was also able to visit Cinque Terre, which is a string of centuries-old seaside villages on the rugged Italian Riviera coastline. There was an array of multicolored houses and markets and sand all along the coastline. My camera roll is stacked and ready for reminiscing.

I am here to tell you: if you are thinking of studying/working/going abroad, GO! It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity as a student and tagging along with other students is a whole other experience itself. I will always remember my lovely summer in Italy and would not trade it for the world!

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started! 

Pursuing computer science at an Historically Black College or University (HBCU) is a tapestry woven with challenges, triumph, and countless insights, many that come with being a first-generation Black woman in a field where diversity is often a rarity. Here are just a few that I have experienced in my time at an HBCU.

Choosing the Path

Choosing to major in computer science was an intentional decision, driven by a profound passion for technology and a desire to contribute to a field where more diversity is necessary, but lacking.

Navigating Challenges and Celebrating Triumphs

Life as a first-generation student presents itself as a long journey, characterized by a myriad of challenges and triumphs. The intricacies of deciphering complex programming problems to grappling with the stereotypes deeply rooted in the field of technology, has been challenging but also rewarding. The highs and lows of my academic journey serve as a vivid canvas, illustrating the resilience needed to navigate uncharted territories.

Mentorship

Mentorship is a crucial component of being successful in any field. Mentors, with their sage advice and unwavering support, have played an instrumental role in shaping not only the trajectory of my studies but also my understanding of the field. Their influence extends beyond academia, permeating into the essence of personal development.

Diversity and Inclusion

At the heart of my experience lies diversity within STEM at my HBCU. Being part of a community that embraces diversity and fosters inclusion has made a profound impact on both who I am as a student and who I am as a person. The unique environment of my university has not only enriched my education journey but has also become a catalyst for innovation, creativity, and a broader perspective on the possibilities within the realm of computer science.

Resilience

In the face of challenges, resilience emerges as a constant companion. As I continue my journey, bouncing back, learning from failures, and keeping an unwavering determination all have propelled me forward. Resilience is not just a trait; it is an enduring narrative woven intricately into the fabric of my journey.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Other than my passion for technology and diversity, I also have a commitment to motivate the next generation. I come from a small town in south Louisiana, where the younger generation are not aware of all of the possibilities that can be offered to them. As a first-generation student, a Black woman, and a torchbearer for diversity in STEM, the responsibility to inspire others becomes a central theme. I strive to provide a blueprint for success in the face of adversity.

The collective journey we navigate together is a commitment to shaping a future where diversity is an undeniable part of technological innovation. As we traverse the dynamic landscape of STEM, the hope is for shared narratives to inspire and empower. As the journey continues, we strive for a reality where the pioneers of today pave the way for those of tomorrow.

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started! 

Trader Joe’s is a college students’ lifeline (at least here in California), and after living on a college campus next to one for three years, I have come up with a list of all the best snacks and matched them with majors based on some of my peers. Take a look and see how closely these snacks matched you and the students with these majors on your campus!

Chemistry: Peanut Butter Pretzels

You guys are some of the busiest people, your major is constantly having you in 3-to-4-hour long labs, staying up late writing lab reports, and basically studying 24/7. You don’t have time to mess around with fancy snacks, anything that requires more than opening the bag, simply out of the question. These protein packed pretzels, that fit many parts of the food pyramid, are the perfect quick pick me up between O chem and your labs!

Business: White Cheddar Corn Puffs

These are probably one of the most neutral things that they sell at Trader Joes, which is perfect for you guys who have chosen the most neutral career. In all seriousness, these are the best for a good movie night (you should have time for it, it's not like you have homework). Sit back, relax, and enjoy your grown-up version of Pirates Booty.

***Note: Accounting majors you are the slightly more flavorful Sour Cream and Onion Corn Puff flavor.

Pre Med: Steamed Dumplings

It could be argued that these are a meal more than a snack, they are the perfect food for a 15-minute studying break, and I recommend putting them into a soup to make it into a midnight study snack. I am biased here because I am pre-med myself, but guys, if you haven't tried these, GET THEM, I promise you they are the best brain food, super filling, and they never get old.

Journalism: Crispy Crunchy Chocolate Chip Cookies

These come in a massive bucket of cookies (technically like 17 servings per bucket), which is perfect for you to finish in one writing session. We all know that 90% of your work is unpaid internships and underpaid writing gigs, so the fact that these cookies just had an uptick in price is a fatal blow for you, but these are worth the splurge. These cookies are the perfect comfort food and have some sort of magic in them that instantly makes you more productive (or maybe it's the sugar high).

Performing Arts: Cookie Butter Ice Cream

Ice cream is the best snack for you guys so you can soothe your voice (and your nerves) after singing and running around all day. The Cookie Butter ice cream is truly like eating liquid heaven, and you guys deserve a sweet treat whether you are prepping for show week, in the middle of auditions, or celebrating at the cast party.

Psychology: Gone Berry Crazy Chocolate Covered Strawberries

You guys are the lowkey health nuts of the friend group. After analyzing everyone around you, it only makes sense that you look out for yourself, and this is a perfect snack to get in a sweet treat, while still being healthy-ish. These are a perfect pre-nap snack to make sure you are nice and well rested to go discuss others' family traumas.

Education: PB & J Snack Duo

These snacks throwback to the little snacks they used to hand out to us as prizes in elementary school, and they really transport you back to being a kid again. These are perfect for you guys because you are choosing to go back into that world, it all comes full circle. Truly, these are an amazing snack, and you will likely be giving them out in your future classroom.

Philosophy: None

I hate to say it, but you would get too overwhelmed with choices upon walking into the store that you wouldn't be able to pick a snack at all. Not everything needs to be a massive decision, you don't need to consult Plato’s philosophies to pick a snack. Because of this, I will pick for you. Get the frozen fried rice, we all know it's the best snack on this list anyway.

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started! 

Entering college is an exciting experience filled with new opportunities, challenges, and late-night study sessions. During my freshman year, I vividly remember the struggle to balance academic demands, my social life, and the crucial need for a good night's sleep. However, after struggling through days on only a few hours of sleep, I've discovered some essential strategies for maintaining a healthy sleep routine while adjusting to the chaos of college life. 

Prioritize and Plan

The first step in achieving a balanced college life is to prioritize and plan effectively. Take a realistic look at your academic and social commitments, identify essential tasks, and create a schedule that allows for dedicated study time and relaxation. This seems simple, but getting into the habit of writing things in a planner has greatly helped my time management skills. By planning ahead, you'll not only manage your time more efficiently but also carve out slots for a consistent sleep routine.

Establish a Consistent Sleep Schedule

Consistency is key when it comes to sleep. Establishing a regular sleep schedule helps regulate your body's internal clock, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up at the same time every day. I try to aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night, which I found leaves my body and mind well-rested to feel ready for the day ahead. Everyone is different, so once you have found the amount of sleep that feels right for you, stick to that. One of the aspects that helped me most here was when picking classes, having a consistent start time each day. This ensures I wake up around the same time each day and keeps my sleep consistent. 

Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine

Develop a bedtime routine that signals to your body that it's time to wind down. I know we all have heard to not use your phone right before bed, but I understand that can be difficult. I have found reading for just ten minutes before I go to sleep has helped me greatly in falling asleep faster and having better sleep quality. Once it's time to go to bed, make sure you are in a dark and quiet environment, as this best promotes sleep. 

Manage Stress Effectively

College life often comes with its fair share of stressors. Learning to manage stress is crucial for both academic success and quality sleep. Incorporate stress-reducing activities into your routine, such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, or regular physical activity. Going to bed at night feeling stressed about some class work or an upcoming test, for me, often means the difference between a good night's sleep and feeling exhausted the next day. These practices can help clear your mind and contribute to a more restful sleep.

Set Boundaries

While college provides numerous opportunities for socializing and extracurricular activities, it's essential to set boundaries. Learn to say no when necessary and prioritize self-care. For me this was huge. Freshman year I had friends staying in my room till 2 am hanging out. It's hard to think about how this may impact you, because as a freshman your goal is to make new friends. However, balancing your social life with academic responsibilities and self-care is crucial for avoiding burnout and ensuring you have the energy to engage fully in both aspects of college life.

In conclusion, finding the balance between academics, social life, and sleep is a challenge many college students face. By prioritizing, planning, and adopting healthy sleep habits, you can set yourself up for success. Remember, being well rested better prepares you to handle the demands of college, leading to improved academic performance and an overall more enjoyable college experience.

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started! 

Coming into college, I did not know how to properly grocery shop. I didn’t understand the concept of creating a list, never shopping hungry, and seeking out store brand items. That said, I wasted a lot of money in my first couple months of college on grocery items. Through my experience, I have finally developed 4 tips of how to save money while in the grocery store.

Don’t Shop Hungry

Starting out with a difficult one, you need to avoid shopping while hungry. When you’re hungry, you convince yourself you need everything on the shelves. Your creative food juices are flowing as you tell yourself, “Maybe I could make this,” then the item sits in your cabinet until the end date. You do not need the yellow cake mix, and you are not going to make it sometime this week. Instead, eat a snack or entire meal before you enter the store so that you aren’t shopping for your cravings instead of your needs.

Make a List

You need to make a list before you enter the store. If you don’t have an idea of what you need, you’ll most likely walk aimlessly down each aisle wondering what you can fill your fridge with. Instead, making a list allows you to be the student on a mission. You know exactly what you need and why, and you know you don’t need the Twizzler pack that someone left behind because you didn’t add it to your list.

Buy the Store Brand

Although there is a stigma against them, you should consider buying store brand items. We are all aware of the idea that the store brand isn’t as good as the name brand, but this isn’t always the case. In fact, I have found myself preferring these brands over others for different items. As an avid cheese lover, I will always choose the Great Value brand shredded parmesan cheese instead of the others. Buying the store brand can save you at least a dollar or two, which if you consider this for half of your list then you’re saving $10-$20.

Download the Store App

Lastly, download the store app and sign up for rewards. This tip can go for a lot of different stores or areas outside of the grocery section as well; signing up for your favorite gas station rewards could save you 3 cents off the gallon, which we all know is extremely valuable. Many stores have rewards programs that we avoid because of the promotional emails we receive, but you can unsubscribe to those and still save money. There are many deals provided to customers solely because they created an account. The store apps also supply a map of the location you are in, so you can look up the item & aisle instead of wasting time searching.

My bank account has been subject to the abuse of a grocery store too many times, and I’m sure yours feels the same way. Take these tips and use them in your next grocery store run! See what kind of difference you’re able to make over the next couple of months!

Do you have a compelling story or student success tips you’d like to see published on the Pearson Students blog?  If you are a college student and interested in writing for us – click here to pitch your idea and get started!