Student Discounts for Semester 2!

One of the things I encourage most students to explore is student discounts at a variety of stores, online and IRL. Sites like HerCampus.com often dedicate many posts to student discounts from a variety of stores - from tech to fashion.

Running Out of Space?

Think efficiency! You don't need to be a hoarder to accumulate a lot of baggage at home. Sometimes it's hard to create new ways to store items, so hopefully this video might inspire you.

INDUSTRIAL DECOR TREND

Some trends are hard to follow either because they're too expensive, or they're too time-consuming. Nothing quite captures the essence of what The Student Budget stands for like the industrial home decor trend: environmentally friendly (recycling), cheap (through thrift/op shops), times-saving (no need for elaborate planning - odd, unusual combinations make super authentic pieces). 

I have to admit, this may not be the most objective stance on a decor trend... minimal industrial makes my knees weak. I find it gritty and grungy, with a unique sophisticated twist. It can look like you've put a lot of effort when in reality, they're just random buys you've made at a variety of secondhand or thrift shops. You could always head over to something like Bunnings for specific items you need, but the beauty of this trend is the ease with which you can decorate....

PUBLIC SPEAKING: HOW TO SQUASH NERVES & ANXIETY

If you've managed to get this far in life without doing any public speaking, spill. What is your secret??? Chances are you’ve had to do some sort of presentation at least once, whether at school or work. There are very few people who revel in the idea of speaking before an audience, and the general consensus is that it sucks. There are countless more pleasant things to do. Like epilating your back or getting chilli in your eye. Hobbies, yo!

"Do you give any student discounts?"

As a student, you're bound to have used that line some where. I'd be surprised if it's not a common question on your lips. It should be. There are countless places that provide student discounts, online and in real life. They may not advertise student discounts, so don't be shy about asking for them. Many places are quite understanding and charitable to students, with many students either working or frequenting there. Other places may introduce student discounts due to a high number of requests. The benefits of asking far outweigh the embarrassment you may feel, so give it a go and ask.

CRAVINGS: WHAT YOUR BODY ACTUALLY NEEDS

Food cravings can be hard to fight. Especially when we misinterpret the signals our bodies are sending and consume the wrong foods.

SUPER CHEAP, QUICK & EASY WAYS TO DECOR

Creating items for home decor can be fun if they're quick and cheap. I guess some people can find them fun even if they're not. I gravitate towards the simpler DIYs. Here are some photos that might inspire or motivate you to add your special touch to you living quarters. 

50 BEST USES OF COCONUT OIL

...it was a struggle to pick the top 50, considering how many there are. I challenge someone to find me a product, natural or man-made, that can provide more uses than coconut oil.

FLATMATES.COM.AU

Thinking of moving out and are struggling to find shared accommodation? Or perhaps you need someone to move in with you? If you're in Australia, check out Flatemates.com.au. If you don't already know about it, then shame on you. They've been online since 1997 (I didn't realise the internet existed that far back). Accounts are protected against scammers, so you shouldn't worry about kidnapping or human trafficking. This isn't sponsored. The Student Budget hasn't even reached that level of audience yet. 

GOT A GRIDDLE?

If every time you use the griddle pan your meat and vegetables are smoking up a storm, then you're probably using it wrong. Avoiding using too much seasoning, sauces or oil when cooking on a griddle. Check out this super-quick, 1-minute guide:

HOW TO: MAKE YOUR HAIR GROW FASTER

Humans are such strange creatures. We're trying to both find easier ways to remove it and increase it. Promoting hair growth is cheaper and simpler than you might expect. "Vitamins" and other bottled promises of hair growth can create adverse reactions. It's always a little bit of a gamble when experimenting with those types of products. There are many sites (countless, really) that provide tips on promoting hair growth, but who has time and patience to sit and read through pages and pages of information? I've found the most talked about natural alternatives to promote hair growth. They're simple, easy, and will 100% give you results. 

CLOTHING CARE SYMBOLS & MEASURING EQUIVALENTS

If you struggle to understand the care symbols on the tags of your clothing items, don't worry - you're not alone. Sometimes giving it to your mother or someone else just isn't an option. And running it through Google isn't that easy... How would you even describe some of them?! Luckily, some caring individual out in the internet world (Primer Magazine) put together an invaluable list of these symbols and their meanings. I've also found a picture with measuring equivalents, because we aren't all experienced in the kitchen and need some guidance.

VITAMINS & THEIR USES

If you're borderline useless when it comes to knowledge on nutrition, then this might come in handy for you... 

WORK HOURS & VACATION TIME AROUND THE WORLD

Reckon you work too much? Think your boss is pushing you too hard? Is your health suffering as a result? Are you wondering whether the grass is greener on the other side of the world? Could I ask any more questions? Probably. Here are some interesting statistics on numbers of hours worked (and vacation time) across many different countries (I wish we could see China's stats). 

THE ULTIMATE GREEN SMOOTHIE FORMULA

If you're not a fan of smoothies yet, you need to get your act together. They're so ridiculously delicious and give you an amazing energy boost. There's no better way to give your body the nutrients it so desperately needs. You can even get your daily dose of fruits and veggies from one blend! I won't even begin to tell you how quick they are to make - they're perfect for if you've got little time in the morning for food prep!

TRAVEL TIP # 003: HOW TO TIP AROUND THE WORLD

Tipping can be really tricky, and often illegal. Don't get caught out! Check out this guide to avoid unwanted situations.  

TRAVEL TIP # 002: HOW TO PACK

If you're not a frequent traveller, then packing will be a pain in your glutes. Packing depends on many things: 

• the culture of the destination
• weather
• length of time you're travelling
• what you plan to do
• how accessible washing machines are, etc. 

The biggest rule is to wear your heaviest or bulkiest clothing while you travel. That way you'll have more space in your suitcase. If you're travelling for pleasure, try to remember to leave some space in your suitcase/s for your purchases. Avoid the option of leaving behind half of your belongings. Here are several combinations for women and men that might help with your decisions when packing. Also remember to check whether your destination will have things like hairdryers, towels, bedding, etc. You don't want to be buying those basics while you're on holiday. 

TRAVEL TIP # 001: WHEN TO BUY AIRLINE TICKETS

You don't need to rely on a travel agent to organise your flights. They will almost always charge extra (everyone has to make a living). There are some awesome tips and tricks hanging around online about when the best time to buy airline tickets is.

37 QUOTES THAT WILL MAKE YOU WANT TO TRAVEL

LAUNDRY STAIN CHEAT SHEET

Not many of us have the luxury of having others do our laundry. And when we butt heads with stubborn stains, we can be at a loss for how to remove them. Until now! Hazaa! This might be one of the handiest posts I've ever submitted for this blog. These are awesome tips on how to get rid of stains from chocolate to blood using ingredients you should be able to find around your house.