Cable's out, walking's in
CUTTING COSTS | How student from Arkansas stretches a buck
Millicent McFadden, a Chicago graduate school student, is cutting costs anywhere she can find.
On Monday, she had her cable television service disconnected.
(Rich Hein/Sun-Times)
(Richard A. Chapman/Sun-Times)
"I don't need it," said the 27-year-old student at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology.
McFadden is even squeezing money from her public-transit ride to the Metra station by walking 2 miles when the weather is nice.
"I'm trying to save," she said.
She said the rising cost of cereal, milk and organic foods have pinched her budget more than ever in the last six months. She spends $50 a week on groceries and $33.16 for a monthly book of Metra rides, but she is trying to find ways to economize.
McFadden, a fellowship recipient, is trying to save money while working at school, doing contract work as well as odd jobs.
"No more clothes," she said.
She has delayed her trip home to Little Rock, Ark., until she earns more money.
"I haven't even made plans yet," she said.
How are you saving money? Planning to vacation locally? Going to yard sales? Write to psmith@suntimes.com.