Textbooks can kill the pocket. My freshman year, I bought all my books in the bookstore (dumb mistake) and spent over $400. Never again. I started purchasing my books online and picked up a few tricks. Here are some tips to help you on the textbook journey.
1. Take your time. Don't rush to purchase your books at the first available place. Take some time to shop around, search multiple online sources like Half.com. Even ask a neighbor before your make that purchase. Look for the best price. It'll be worth it.
2. Use the international version. It's a lot cheaper and not that much different from the US version. Trust me.
3. Rent it. If your won't need the text to refer to down the line, it's always best to rent. Try Chegg.com for great discounts.
4. Always buy used. That shiny new book only costs more.
5. Wait. You might not need the book at all. Many times the professor doesn't even use the text or provides handouts instead. It never hurts to ask if the book will be required.
6. Check the library. The book you need may be in stock in the library. The only problem with this is that there's probably only one available and you don't have that much one on one time with the book, but it's always a great option.
7. If all else fails, make a friend. Study buddies are the best, especially if they don't mind you borrowing their book every once in awhile.
happy hunting,
A Broke College Student
