College student learning to scrimp
HOW I'M SAVING MONEY | A look at how Chicagoans are coping in a rough economy
Michael Hamblin, like most college students, lives on a tight budget that's being made leaner by rising gasoline prices.
Hamblin, 20, a sophomore at Elmhurst College, works security part time at the Sears store in Oak Brook while pursuing a double major in psychology and business administration.
(Rich Hein/Sun-Times)
His new Dodge Caliber, which holds 12 gallons, ate up $50 in gasoline during a recent fill-up.
"Gasoline prices have been a big factor for me," he said.
He scheduled his second job, in the college's public relations department, so he can cut his driving to three days a week from six.
He also washes his own car, has stopped buying name brand groceries, toothpaste and other items, and buys clothes at Sears, using his employee discount.
One thing Hamblin won't give up is going out with friends -- they car-pool now.
How are you saving money? E-mail: psmith@suntimes.com.