How to have fun without money
Student life basically dictates that none of us have money ever, but that’s no reason to despair. It might only be halfway into another semester of being poor until the summer holidays, but that doesn’t mean there’s not a whole heap of things to keep you occupied throughout the year. Don’t let being broke get you down — it doesn’t mean you can’t have a life outside of uni.
Make exercise a social activity
Actually hear me out here, I’m not talking about getting all your friends into serious marathon mode — but there’s no reason not to go for a decent walk with a buddy, or play some footy in the park with your mates. If you just arrange casual games with mates, it’s free and it’s good for you. Also its way easier to push yourself when there’s somebody there with you.
A bonus of living in Australia is that there’s a heap of cool bush walks and beaches to go to if you’re not into sports.
Keep an eye out for people giving away free shit
Most unis will have days where there will be people handing out free stuff. Whether it’s Red Bull, noodles, or free condoms, it’s all shit you don’t have to spend money on. Most of the time the people handing it out are students employed by these companies, so you can probably get away with taking extra if you ask nicely.
At most univerities, you can also score a free breakfast on campus on certain days, or get free food or drinks at society events.
Free (or cheap) tastings at bars
Crazy, I know, but this is actually a thing. Generally the best way to find out about them is to figure out which of your local bars do this kind of thing and keep an eye on their websites. It’s usually heaps of fun if you bring a friend or two along and it will often be very cheap (sometimes even free).
However, a quick disclaimer: most people who go to these things are going to learn more about what the sommeliers or brewers do, not solely for the purpose of scoring free booze. If you’re not interested in that part of it, you probably won’t have much fun. More of a suggestion for people who are into appreciating what they drink – if that’s you, these events are awesome.
Sign up to write reviews
Whether its music, film, or product reviews, most of the time you can score free stuff. It’s not like that’s the only reason you should do it, but if writing is something you’re into then it’s worth checking it out. It gives you the chance to go to concerts and movies for free and if you’re a music reviewer you can can listen to albums before they’re available commercially.
However, much like the free tastings, take this stuff seriously. Don’t ruin it for the people who legit want to do this by screwing around. Don’t cancel the day before or bail on the night. Just because it’s free doesn’t mean work hasn’t gone in to organising it. Your editor has most likely organised this with publicists, who are expecting media in return for the free tix, so you’re expected to follow through with your part.
Actually make use of the library
Look up the movies section of your uni library, or the pop culture section. There’s a heap of books, DVDs and magazines there that you can read without having to spend a cent. Most of the time these are updated regularly, so new releases are often available. Did I mention it’s free?
Rubee Dano
Rubee is an Arts student in her final year at Monash. She has been an intern for The Lifted Brow and written for Archer and Aphra.