Finance

Paying your Bills

If your money situation spirals out of control for whatever reason, don't let debt letters pile up on your doormat. It's important not to ignore them, they're never as bad as you might think and so talk to your student advisor in the Union, or your student banker in your bank. Remember, you are not the first student to run out of money (nor will you be the last) so they've seen it all before. The worst thing you can do is run up and unauthorised overdraft and hope no one will notice (I'm speaking from experience here - can you fell the passion?) as the bank will get mightily cheesed off with my (sorry - your), behaviour and start bringing ridiculous charges and rates of interest.

If you don't talk to your bank, they'll assume you're a bad risk and stop being nice to you when the spit hits the fan. If the situation is really getting out of control, then speak to a student counsellor - no situation is ever unsolvable. If it gets really bad, loan money from your mates and start smoking roll-ups.

Hardship Funds: Some colleges offer hardship funds or access funds for when the going gets really tough, and not just everyday "can't buy more than 3 pints" tough, but when you're in dire need of money or you won't be able to feed your family. But remember, if you apply for a hardship fund, they'll want to see your bank statements, so "Ann Summers - £90" and "The Rat and Parrot - £250 cash-back" better not be on there if you want to stand a chance.