For students worrying about how the proposed tuition increase may affect them, Binghamton University officials say that being proactive could potentially lessen the impact.

David Husch, director of Off Campus College, said that tight financial times may have an effect on students.

“There is going to be a percentage of students that feel the squeeze tighter than others,” Husch said. “It is just a matter of time.”

Because of the proposed budget cuts, some students and parents are realizing they can only afford state schools, according to Suzanne Howell, interim director of Residential Life.

“The demand for people coming to and wanting to live on campus is increasing,” she said.

Financial Aid

Students should look into financial aid to help finance their education, Husch said, whether they live on or off campus.

There is a misconception, Husch said, that students can’t collect financial aid if they live off campus.

“That’s not true,” he said. “Depending on the student’s needs, they can still receive aid.”

According to Patti Donahue, the associate director of student services and operations, Financial Aid Services will be offering students the opportunity to meet with counselors from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily this week to discuss options for financing their college education.

“This is particularly important if a parent or family status changes, such as a parent losing a job,” Donahue said.

Ronald Kermani, the senior vice president of communications of the New York State Higher Education Services Corporation, said students should apply for financial assistance from the Tuition Assistance Program. Called TAP, it sends money electronically to colleges on behalf of the students.

John Lucas, an undeclared sophomore, said he gained some scholarship money from the program.

“I think it’s great that there is a system out there that provides assistance to those in need of it,” Lucas said. “Even though I only receive a small amount of money, I know there are people out there whom need it more.”

Living on campus and saving money

Howell said that students might have to think of creative ways to be smarter with their money.

One way to save money, she said, is for students to cut down on luxury items such as lattes and Vitaminwater.

“Students aren’t aware of how much money they are spending on items such as drinks,” Howell said.

According to Howell, carpooling is another great way to save money.

“Students could use the money they spend on gas to help pay for tuition,” she suggested.

Undergrads should also check their mail boxes for deals and coupons, Barbara Dickman, a secretary at Residential Life, said.

“The money saved there could be helpful in offsetting entertainment costs,” Dickman said. “Students should challenge themselves to have an inexpensive weekend.”

Gail Glover, a spokeswoman for BU, also offered advice and said that finding employment and making responsible spending decisions is important in saving money for tuition costs.

“Students should explore resources to help keep expenses down, such as pre-paid fees for student activities, campus shuttles and buses,” she said.

Living Off Campus and Saving Money

More students may be moving off campus because of proposed budget cuts, according to Husch.

“If money was an issue, students might choose off-campus housing to counter expenses,” he said, adding that being energy conscious off campus can add to savings.

According to Husch, if the thermostat is lowered one degree, there could be a 3 percent savings on an energy bill.

He also suggested turning the thermostat down when no one is in the living quarters and maintaining a 68-degree range while students are home.

Kermani said he doesn’t know what lies ahead, but that the times call for financial adjustments.

“Everyone knows we are in tough financial straits,” he said. “No one knows what tomorrow will bring.”