Despite all the recession-induced sales going on at the moment (some as much as 90% off), there’s no way to ignore the effects of our currently crippled economy. It’s gotten to the point where sometimes just grabbing lunch can set-off a flood of financial guilt (i.e. how could I spend $15 on a salad?).

However, there are many easy ways to be frugal, even on a campus (such as Penn’s) where you are seduced by American Apparel, Urban Outfitters, and the not-so-cheap Cosi all within a block of your dorm. Here are some ways to save a few bucks without needing to grow your own vegetables on a rooftop garden in Philly.

1.) Eat Cheap
An avid, diehard fan of Gia Pronto, even I will admit that the aforementioned expensive salads may be unnecessary in times of economic need. So take advantage of the amazingly cheap food carts scattered around campus and you’ll find yourself paying a mere $2.00 for a sandwich.

2.) Along Those Lines, Stick To Your Meal Plan
Meal plans are only required for freshmen, and yes they are a pain in the ass – don’t underestimate the stamina required to scavenge around Commons or Hill looking for a decent meal. However, seeing as the plans are pre-paid, try to use them as much as possible rather than shelling out extra cash for food.

3.) Don’t Take Cabs
Though cabs are enticingly convenient, they can also get annoyingly pricey. So try walking, biking, or SEPTA-ing your way downtown.

4.) Find Ways to Drink For Less
Not every club charges $12 for a watered-down vodka soda, though it sometimes seems that way. Plenty of bars (including those on campus) offer awesome drink specials that will get you nice and buzzed for a quarter of the cost.

5.) Don’t Forget About the Sales
If your heart truly aches to shop, like mine does most of the time, don’t forget that sales are quite conducive to making smart purchases. Yes, spending no money is better than dropping $50 on a sweater – but if that sweater happens to be cashmere, and marked 75% off, I say go for it.