Getting a summer job isn’t easy. Trust me, I know. I received my summer job at a life insurance company in June of 2004. Prior to getting my first check, my thoughts drifted to how I would spend my new found income. But then my sixth sense kicked in. Here are a few helpful pointers I’ve discovered for the average teen trying to save an extra dollar:

First you need to find a job, which can be difficult if you’re not persistent. Take me for example, I went to a class at a community college and learned how to look for a job. For a kid like me who is only 15 there are not a lot of jobs out there, but I still didn’t give up hope. If you want something, you must be driven to get it. So I decided because I want to major in business when I go to college, why not work for a financial company where I could gain a lot of experience? I decided to write to the president of a company that is close to where I live and what do you know, I received an interview. Then later I was hired as a summer intern. Remember you must always be bold; if you want something in life, you have to obtain it.

Now that you have your job, besides working diligently and keeping track of your money, being cautious about how you spend it is the most important thing. Remember, money comes and money goes. So don’t take your first check and go on a shopping spree at the mall, or buy the new Gameboy Advance or X Box. Deposit your money into your savings account at the credit union. Keep in mind, college is just around the corner and tuition and books sometimes cost an arm and a leg.

If the company or business you work for has direct deposit, it is in your best interest to seize hold of this opportunity. Direct deposit ensures that your money will enter your savings account and it clears faster than depositing your check at the ATM. Since the money goes to your account rather than your pockets, it can remind you to save instead of spending your money. Depositing your money is also significant in becoming a financially successful person. People who spend all their money on clothing, accessories, vehicles, and new fads not only finance incorrectly, but also hurt themselves in the long run. If they do not improve their spending patterns, they will grow into financially unfit adults, reliant on credit cards and living check to check.

While it is good to work for your money, it is even better to make your money work for you. You want to invest your money where it can benefit you the most. Investing your money in college can provide you with a better education. Putting your money in your account at the credit union can help your money increase and give you more money for each dollar, very helpful during an emergency.

It is also important to think wisely and bargain with your money. For instance, when I was going to Atlanta, I needed to purchase a ticket. There are many different airlines and online websites where you can buy a ticket. I first checked around to see which had the cheapest ticket going from Hartford to Atlanta. I discovered that it was cheaper to fly from Boston to Atlanta rather than flying from Hartford. Once I found my ticket, I was eager to purchase it. However, I discovered that tickets purchased on-line on the weekends, Friday through Monday, were more expensive than tickets purchased Tuesday through Thursday. So instead of buying my ticket that Friday, I waited until Tuesday and what do you know, it was less expensive. So bargain because most of the time it can help you save your money.

So you see that really cute dress or the new Jordans, you wanted? Don’t blow your paycheck. That is a TERRIBLE MISTAKE! If you buy everything that you want, sooner or later you will be broke. Instead of buying that cute dress or those sneakers, save your money. Wait and purchase those goods when the price is most convenient for you. Maybe next week the dress will go on sale or those same sneakers will be cheaper at a discount store or better yet, put your money away for a rainy day. Always remember that good things come to those who wait. Just be patient.

 that was real helpful information thanks alot