After withdrawing yet another 40 dollars from your account, the bank teller hands you the dreaded yellow slip stating your total savings. You cringe at the new balance. Where did all your money go? And how can you get it back?

STEP ONE: GET A JOB (OBVIOUSLY)

There are plenty of jobs out there, but don’t wait until the summer to apply for one. In fact, don’t even wait until the late spring to apply for a summer job. They go fast.

Waitressing makes a lot of money. “On an average Saturday night, I usually make about 200 dollars,” Allie Greig said, who graduated in 2006 and currently waitresses at Looney’s Pub. However, the most money is made at places which serve alcohol, and you must be at least 18 to work there legally. “When people buy alcohol, their check averages are higher. When their check averages are higher, their tips are higher,” Greig explained.

STEP TWO: MINIMIZE THE MILEAGE

If you have your license and have to pay for some or all of your gas, you know that’s where most of your money will go. So, to avoid draining out your wallet, carpool with friends.

STEP THREE: STICK WITH WATER

In Disney World last week, every drink (including water) was $2.50. As we were walking around in the heat, we were all bound to get thirsty. But who wants to waste $10.00 a day on water? Instead, buy one water bottle at the beginning of the day, and refill it throughout the day. It saved me tons of money on the trip. At restaurants, order water. At places which sell bottled drinks, ask for a cup of water. Most of the time, they’ll give it to you for free.

STEP FOUR: BARGAIN HUNT

Don’t go on shopping sprees. Instead, shop frequently and look for bargains. You’ll save a lot of money by getting one new cheap thing, rather than blowing all your money at once. Also, shop on the clearance racks. This means bypassing the new releases at the front of the store and heading to the back. Or you could simply try going to cheaper stores. You’ll be surprised at what cute things you can find in Target.

STEP FIVE: CHEAP DATES PAY OFF

It’s tough to find something to do without spending money, but don’t give up so easily! Try planning a scavenger hunt with friends or just hang out at a friend’s house. In the summer, go to a friend’s pool or make dinner instead of going out.

STEP SIX: KEEP THE CHANGE

Don’t lose your change! When paying for something, use exact change or pay in quarters. It will make you feel like you didn’t spend anything because you didn’t touch the bills in your wallet. Most people count their money by counting their cash only, while coins sit in the bottom of their pocket unused.

Charlotte Hagerman can be reached for comment at [email protected]