r**m
发帖数: 1825 | 1 https://retirementplans.vanguard.com/VGApp/pe/EducationNewsCenter#al=false&
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Steve and Annette Economides paid off one home in nine years, a second one
in 15. They have fed their family of seven for $350 per month. They have
paid cash for their cars, put their kids through college without borrowing,
and have taken fun-filled, debt-free vacations.
And they've accomplished all of this on an average annual income of about $
44,000.
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other ways of dealing with the costs of college.
Question: Such as?
Annette: By taking advantage of the College-Level Examination Program, which
allows you to test out of college classes for a very low fee.
High school students can take advanced placement classes where they earn
college credits.
There are scholarships out there for everyone: If you are of Greek ancestry.
If you want to go into law enforcement. Even horse associations, such as
the Arabian Horse Association and the American Quarter Horse Association,
offer scholarships for college-bound students.
A good website for finding scholarships is fastweb.com.
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Question: You did financial coaching at your church. What did you advise
people who have modest or low incomes?
Annette: That there were solutions to their financial problems if they were
willing to think outside the box and go against the cultural norms.
Steve: Let's say you make $30,000 a year and can't find a house to buy or an
apartment to rent for $600 a month.
Maybe you could think about taking a second job as an apartment manager and
get your apartment for free. Or take a caretaker position on someone's
estate and live in the caretaker's cottage. Or be an in-house companion for
an elderly person.
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Question: How do you have a good time on a tight budget?
Annette: You can create meaningful memories with little or no cost. Invite
friends to your home for a potluck party and game night. Go out for a
Valentine's dinner the night before or after and use a two-for-one coupon.
Look for community celebrations and activities, such as fairs. Take field
trips. Attend a concert at a high school or community college. Attend a
university music student's senior recital.
If you travel during the summer, remember that many small colleges rent dorm
rooms.
And, of course, plan your vacations. Spontaneity is fun, but can be costly.
There are bargains everywhere. Living within your means can be inspirational
. | k**i
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