Manners Matter: Saving for College, Not Spring Break

Dear Mary Pat,

I’m a junior in college, and my friends want me to go to Florida on spring break. I would love to go, but it’s not even close to being in my budget. My friends say that they can loan me the money, but I don’t feel comfortable with that. I also need to spend that week working. They are generous to offer to help, but they don’t seem to understand that every penny counts in me getting through school. How can I get my point across?

Signed,

Budget Betty

Dear Budget Betty,

Just be direct: It would be great if you could go on the trip, but not if it’s going to cause financial pressure. Your friends will hopefully see that. It’s not easy to stick to a budget, but it’s very wise of you to do so. The less money you owe by the time you graduate, the better off you’ll be in the short run and in the long run.

Good luck,

Mary Pat