Your college is a gold mine for free things. Believe it or not, I’ve gotten free guitars, scooters, furniture, and even a Roomba. Every time I share these stories, people tell me I’m lucky. The truth is, I’m not lucky; I’m courageous.

Here are my tips for finding free things to take advantage of on your campus and during your college career.

1. Capitalize on Move-Out Season

College students often have a bunch of leftover items after the semester ends. Between people moving in, moving out, and moving away, there is a golden opportunity to take stuff off people’s hands. This can happen through dumpster diving or snooping around the dorms.

It’s a win-win situation: they want to get rid of things they don’t need, and you want free things. I used this method during dorm move-outs and was able to snag a cowboy hat, tons of organizers, a new Snoopy bed sheet, and a vacuum. My friend even got a mini fridge!

2. Attend Off-Campus Apartment Events

One way I get tons of free food is by following the Instagram accounts of apartment complexes around my campus. Off-campus apartments often host free food events or have promotional events to get students to sign leases with them. Some will even offer gift cards if you take a tour of their property.

Because of this, I went to a rooftop party hosted by a nearby apartment complex. They were giving out free food and holding hourly giveaways. One of these giveaways was for a Roomba. Although I initially came for the food, I ended up leaving with a Roomba as well.

Take advantage of your college’s local apartment complexes. See if your campus even hosts an off-campus apartment fair.

3. Shop Secondhand

When all else fails, shop secondhand. Buying new ensures high-quality, long-lasting items, but sometimes you don’t need them for very long and don’t necessarily need them to be new. This is exactly when buying secondhand is helpful because you can often get items at a discounted price.

Check out local marketplaces, thrift stores, and yard sales. I got my bass guitar, electric guitar, and amp through Facebook Marketplace. I also got a few computer accessories, including my monitor and webcam. Most items were only used a few times, but they worked as if they were new. Sometimes buying secondhand is all you need.

Be careful of potential scammers, though; if a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Make sure to verify the seller. Don’t give any personal information unless you’re sure it’s legitimate.

4. My Top Tip: Just Ask

Opportunities for free things don’t come if you never ask. Sometimes sellers are very willing to negotiate, and doing so can land you an even lower price on the items you want. Don’t be afraid to get your foot in the door and simply ask.

Since starting college, I have been able to secure furniture, clothes, and even electronics to decorate my campus apartment, all at much lower prices. Keep an eye out for opportunities and don’t be afraid to ask around. A little courage goes a long way.

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