‘Education is the most powerful weapon, which you can use to change the world’.

– Nelson Mandela

The Carnival tabanca is finally wearing off, and it’s time to re-shift and refocus the energy on the next generation of changemakers starting or continuing their educational journey.

Whether you’re seeing your child off to their first day of school, or excited about orientations at University, Ariza Credit Union is here to support you through making your mark.

Those who chose to leave home for the first time and attend University abroad, immediately, adopt life skills that will help them survive, such as tracking their expenses and budgeting so that they can ensure they have savings in times of emergencies.

The Ariza team want to give everyone a head start, so we’ve compiled some essential steps to support our members on their educational journey.

Step 1: Take an Inventory

Be honest with your children, teenagers and yourself when it comes to buying school supplies. Starting a new school year can be overwhelming and pressurising,  resulting in unnecessary spending. Keep track of what you already have and focus on replacing essential supplies. If you have young children returning to school, get them involved in the process, set a budget and take them shopping so they understand the difference between what they want, need and can afford.

Step 2: Make a list

Making a list will save you money. Studies show that people who shop without a list pay as much as 23% more than those who made a list. It will also make the process of shopping for supplies stress-free. Make sure you reference resources shared by your educational establishment to ensure you only include what you’ll need for the school year.

Tip 2: Set a Budget

Once you’ve taken an inventory and made a list, the next step is setting a budget and sticking to it. Try not to go over the limit or get carried away. There are many Android and iOS apps that can help you budget and track your expenses. Some of the top rated budgeting apps are Mint Budgeting App, PocketGuard Budget App and You Need a Budget.

As the late Nelson Mandela rightly stated, Education can be a tool for change, because it changes us. It can enlighten us, empower us and shape us into versatile and well-rounded people who can contribute positively to society and our communities.

The team at Ariza wish everyone on starting or completing their educational career the best of luck!

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