Getting there is half the fun

Conundrum

To all of you out there living in rez: how exactly do you afford it?? I was hoping to live in rez for what is possibly my final year at UBC but now it looks like I won't be able to afterall. I applied and got in, and 2 months ago they asked for a $250 deposit to hold my place. Fine. But now, in June, months before the semester, they are asking for another $450 in just one weeks time. My main problem with this is how far in advance this is. I rely on student loans to get me through school and you can't even apply for student loans until June, so how the hell are you supposed to know if you can afford to live in residence if you don't know how much aid you will receive. The other problem with this is I don't even have $450 in my Canadian bank account right now! So with only 2 days to pay the $450 or else forfeit my $250 already paid I guess I need to decide quickly. Right now it looks like I am leaning towards forfeiting my cash.

This ordeal is also making me realize the true costs of school. For just 8 months of school it costs an awful lot. My figures are as follows:
Living in Rez + Tuition = $13000 minimum
Commuting by car + Tuition = $9000 maximum
So an extra $4000 buys convenience and a more fun lifestyle. The way I am starting to see it now is that's $4000 I won't be in debt for, or $4000 I could put towards a cool trip or a new bike. Or I guess I could always pay off some student loans...hmm, nah. What would your choice be?

So on another note, anyone fancy commuting from North Delta with me next year?! My other plan is to either sell my non-aircared truck and by a camper van and sleep off of Marine Drive, or else pitch a tent in Pacific Spirit Park! What do you think, seriously?

Posted by Evan at 10:53 PM