When my daughter was in college, she was inundated with credit card offers: in the mail, on campus, and via telephone. During freshman orientation, they signed her up for a local checking account and accompanying credit card on the spot. I have to say, at the time it was convenient and easy. But looking back, that one credit card led to debt and made it easier to sign up for more. After graduating from college, she had accumulated some hefty credit card balances due to the convenience of using those cards.

University Parent Media, seeing the need for smart spending alternatives to credit cards, has partnered with StorValue and created a program for college students that offers two amazing benefits: controlled spending and cash back rewards. Campus Dough, a low-fee, reward-filled prepaid debit card, provides unmatched benefits for students and their families. Campus Dough gives collegians shopping, restaurant discounts and a new way to manage money through virtual banking and online tools. Parents can use Campus Dough to help ensure security and responsible spending.

Here are some appealing benefits for both parents and college-bound teens:

1. They can arrange for direct deposit to their card from their jobs on campus; eliminating check cashing fees and wait time.
2. They can personalize their card with their favorite image or photo.
3. Campus Dough allows them to manage their account, transfer funds and pay bills on their smart phones.
4. They earn a percentage of each transaction with cash back rewards; and if they follow Campus Dough on Facebook or Twitter, they can take advantage of special offers.
5. They may find they no longer need a checking account after using this card, eliminating high bank fees.
6. Their colleges also earn rewards.
7. Parents can transfer funds to the card by linking to their checking accounts.
8. This is an effective method to control spending.

According to Campus Dough, “the more dough you spend, the more dough you earn, AND the more dough you SAVE!”

Take some time today to visit their website and watch the video presentations on how the card works.  Once you do, I’m sure you’ll see the benefits of this card and sign up for one today. It’s the smart way to help your college-bound teen learn about budgeting, spending and the benefits of graduating with good credit and minimal debt.

It’s a given that the greatest college expense will be tuition, followed by room and board. But it’s the little things that can add up. If you’re budgeting for college and have all your ducks in a row regarding the BIG expenses, you might want to take a pencil and budget in the little things. You’ll be surprised how the nickels and dimes can add up to hundreds.

• Transportation-Most campuses do not allow freshmen to have cars. If they do, consider doing without. You can most likely find everything you need on or near campus. Consider buying a bus pass or walking. It’s the easiest way to pare down the expenses.
• Communication-Compare cellphone plans and make sure you’re signed up for a plan that allows you to have unlimited texting and free conversations with your friends and family. Keep track of your minutes and don’t go over.
• Computer-Many schools require students to have a personal computer. Shop around for one with a wireless connection so you can use the campus ethernet. Buy it when there are sales and bargains and verify that a good warranty is attached.
• Insurance-If your family has health insurance that covers you, make sure the college doesn’t tack on those extra charges to your tuition bill. It’s not a bad idea to get some sort of content coverage for your dorm room. Things tend to “disappear” on crowded college campuses.
• Tuition-Stay on track and make sure you finish your education ON TIME. Additional semesters, hours, etc. will increase your tuition and add extra costs when they are unnecessary.
• Food-If you eat regular meals, the college meal plans are great bargains. If you don’t, and your college will allow you to opt out or pick and choose, you might save money by doing so. My daughter rarely used her plan and we found it was an unnecessary expense.

These are just a few ideas that might help you save some cash during your college years. As a parent, you’ll appreciate the chance to keep some of your hard-earned money in your pocket.

If you’ve got a hint I haven’t touched on please comment here. I’m sure our readers could benefit from any and all suggestions.