There are only a few weeks left of the Spring 2009 semester, so how are you going to spend your summer? If you’re like many poor students across the country, you’re going to waste at least the first month of summer vacay working (and sweating) your ass off in the grueling heat in order to pay off the debt you racked up this term.

This past weekend was the first summery weekend in New York (and the Tri-State area), and as I walked through Manhattan, giving my pasty arms their first taste of real sunshine in months, I was infinitely jealous of all of the people in shorts and flip flops sitting outside the restaurants and cafes, casually throwing back margaritas and nibbling on tapas. I immediately regretted all of the cabs I took this winter when it was too cold to walk a few blocks to the subway, splurging on expensive bar nights (and overpriced coat checks), and every other frivolous nickel I threw away, because this weekend, I could not afford a leisurely afternoon of day-drinking. I realized that if I could not afford this luxury, how would I afford a fantastic vacation this summer?

Well, it’s not too late to cut costs where it matters and save up the money to enjoy the weather this summer and make the most of your three months away from school. By cutting down on what you think are daily necessities, you’ll be surprised by how much you can save in a short period of time. Read More »

Nothing makes me happier than stir fry. For one, it’s sooo delicious. Two, it’s filling. Three? It’s ridiculously easy to make, and serves you for 2 dinners. Again, because I’m a weirdo and hate cooking meat in my tiny kitchen, this is listed without meat, but feel free to add chicken or beef if you so desire…

You need:

1 small can chunk pineapple

1 red bell pepper, sliced

1 green bell pepper, sliced

½ red onion, sliced

1 cup mushrooms, sliced

½ cup carrots, sliced/chopped

1 cup broccoli florets

1 cup sugar snap peas/snow peas in pods

¼ cup almonds (can be omitted per allergies)

Teriyaki sauce

Soy sauce

Garlic powder

1 cup brown rice

(**1 large can chicken broth can be substituted for water if you want more flavorful rice) Read More »