It may be time to reveal that I have ‘done’ university before. I don’t think it would be an unfair to say that I was not a good student. In fact diabolical is a term that would not be out of place. I did not attend lectures, I missed practicals and I was responsible for some empty seats during examinations. I also hemorrhaged money. Of all my worries for my return this is the one that troubles me the most.
I am interested in the subject, I want a degree and, not to blow my own trumpet, I am intelligent enough. For these reasons attendance and exams should not be an issue. On the flip side I have historically lacked self control. I have an intrinsic desire to be a part if things. During my last visit I was constantly worried that something great would happen and I would miss out on being there so I went everywhere. I arose at 5pm, ate, drank and went out until 4 or 5am, mostly having a wonderful time. After 18months of this debauchery I retired to Cornwall a staggering £15,000 indebted.
Repaying this colossal sum has taken years and is still not finished. I currently owe somewhere in the region of £2,000 which it is my aim to be rid of by my first term. Not only this but I wish to have saved some money for the occasion also. (Last time I went with £700 already withdrawn from my £750 overdraft facility). To this end I am putting away 60% of my wages each week in repayments and savings. The rest covers rent and food with an entertainments budget of £25 a week. Sticking to this is proving to be a nightmare and I am not even there yet! I have somehow managed to obtain a large circle of friends and aquintances, all of whom are out on the town for various events on various nights. Saying no is proving traumatic although so far I am sticking to my guns. One week down.
It’s not all trouble and doom though. Some good news arrived this week in the form of refunded bank charges. £480 for the cost of two letters and three stamps. Brilliant. If you’ve not heard already and have paid charges to your bank anytime in the last six years check out the guide to reclaiming bank charges on the ‘this is money‘ website. I also have some unwanted bike parts to sell which I may attempt to dispose of in the shop in which I work or, for speed of sale, I may ebay them despite the probable lower sale price. This should generate around £500 of capital. In addition I am using my skills as a bicycle mechanic to supply handbuilt bike wheels which gerates a little extra, all of which gets tucked away. In such a way shall I be prepared. So long as I can remember to say no more. Hmmm.
