When I reached Aggieland in early August, an umbrella wasn’t something I carried in my two giant suitcases. When you think of Central Texas, rain isn’t the first thing that crosses your mind, especially if you aren’t from this huge state. Now, either it's dumb luck or poor bag-packing on my part, but I did end up carrying a rain jacket. It wasn’t until the first of October that I realized I needed both! After chatting with a few long-term aggies, I realized fall rain in Aggieland is a well-known phenomenon and we are in for a few more of these rainy days in the coming weeks.


So, remember, do yourself a favor and get an umbrella, a rain jacket, and rain boots.
 
As a student, one of my primary concerns has been money. If you stand in front of the MSC and point to a student in any direction, the chances are, that person is struggling with their finances. It’s a known fact that many college students are poor and in debt. The pressure to have an active social life doesn’t help. A significant many work multiple jobs just to be able to take care of their finances, and with increasing food and utility prices, things seem to be getting worse. But there is light at the end of this financial tunnel, and it starts with a haircut!
 
Before I share my haircut experience (first time in the U.S.!), let me tell you about the app called YNAB, or You Need a Budget. We all have several apps on our phones, and one that has been helping me with my budget woes is YNAB. Using the zero-based budgeting method (your income minus your expenditures should equal zero), this app enables you to plan your expenses in an almost professional way. It helps you keep track of each dollar you spend, assists you in categorizing your expenses, and the best part of all, it's free for students for the first 12 months. Now, if what the promoters of this product claim is true, by the end of these months you will have saved enough to get a full subscription with money to spare. Give it a try or be on the lookout for similar apps, such as Mint (it's free forever), or Zeta (if you are in a relationship or just have joint banking). Technology is your friend, and every little thing helps.
 
Now, onto the haircut saga. If you are like me and your bank account looks like those eternally empty vending machines across campus buildings, you most likely weigh the pros and cons of getting a haircut. “Should I get it today, or maybe before an important meeting or presentation?” “Do I need one this week, or can it wait till payday?” Many similar questions get you thinking. While a regular haircut in Aggieland can cost you anything between $25 and $35, if you look deeper and a little farther, you might be able to get something well below the $20 mark. Now, to my surprise, when I canceled a pricey haircut last month, I was unsure where to get some TLC for my not-so-full head of hair. But, with some Googling, digital marketing magic (or creepiness), and luck, I came across an ad for a $6.99 haircut coupon from GreatClips salon on Texas Avenue S.


I was not only able to save $20, but the lovely staff at the salon were kind enough to share some intriguing stories about Aggieland. The lesson learned here for me was patience is a virtue. If you look around for options, they will appear. Also, use social media not just for the latest gossip, but for haircuts and deals too.
 
Good luck, Aggies.
 
Disclaimer: Author does not promote or advertise the apps or businesses mentioned in this blog. Author received no monetary compensation from either of the businesses. Businesses are mentioned purely for reader’s assistance and awareness.
 
– Gogoal Falia
 
Gogoal is a first-year Ph.D. student in the School of Public Health.