Financial Aid - Strategy for Financial Success

10 good habits to Achieve your Dreams

For most people, bad habits are hard to break and it's not easy to develop good habits, particularly when it comes to money. This "Top 10" list includes some good financial habits that should help you succeed in achieving your goals and to be responsible in the financing of your education. It's not too early to get into these habits if you haven't already done so. The longer you wait, the more difficult it will be.

•      Don't live a lifestyle you can't afford. Live below your means while in school.

•      Budget your money carefully as your time; get on a monthly budget.

•      Save a little each month (even if it's only $5.00), and plan your financial future.

•      Keep accurate, well-organized records of your financial activities.

•      Establish and maintain a strong credit history; review your credit annually.

•      Borrow the minimum amount you need.

•      Be a well-informed borrower; not all loans are alike; borrow wisely.

•      Pay credit card bill(s) in full monthly; limit use - save for emergencies.

•      Limit number of credit cards to just a few; limit total available credit.

•      Be realistic estimating how much money you will earn once you graduate.