Who: Britt Bartels (21)
Board year A.S.V Taste
'I really get a kick out of buying beautiful, unique clothes for little money. Recently I scored a cool pair of Levi's pants for three tenners. When I got home I immediately checked the original price. What was the result? Normally, those jeans cost 130 euros. I discovered Vinted and second-hand shops when I moved from Haarlem - where I grew up - to Enschede for my studies. I got that from my mother, who also likes second-hand shopping.'
From tourgide to care supporter
'I went through my bachelor's degree in Technical Medicine faster than I thought. After completing that, I wanted to travel around or do a board year. It turned out to be the latter, but with that the financial support of my parents immediately disappeared. I only get a sum of money from my parents as long as I study. So not for carrying out a full-time board year. I find this logical and understandable. I am grateful to them for their support during my studies. And now I am treasurer at A.S.V Taste. It's quite ironic that I'm now in charge of the money and expenses, isn't it?'
'At first, I was a bit shocked when my parents' contribution disappeared. To make ends meet this year, I need two part-time jobs in addition to my position at the association. For many people, the financial picture is the reason why they hesitate to do a board year. It's a pity they don't get that chance. We also want to organize training courses within the association to help members with financial uncertainties. We notice that there is a taboo on this.'
'I've been working in home care for people with spinal cord injuries for a year and a half now. That's pretty hard work. This also required internal training. I do this work between twenty and forty hours a month and earn me about three hundred euros a month. I also work as a tourgide in the Grolsch factory. I like this work and I do it once a week. In this way, I compensate for the missed contribution of my parents. I can make ends meet, but I have a problem if one of those jobs disappears.'
Ski holiday or double espresso
'Unfortunately, making painful choices is part of life in this day and age. Last week I made a really tough decision. I'm not going on a skiing holiday with my club. With such a decision, I ask myself the question: do I think this is worth the money? In this case, I prefer to go to a cheaper city, for example Istanbul. Those ski holidays are more expensive than you think. I also recently paid off a sailing holiday worth a thousand euros.'
'I like to figure out how I can save better and more. My father and I regularly make Excel lists. I'm tight on it. After all, the terrace is becoming more expensive, as are the groceries. Yet I've only been open about money for a year.'
'There's at least one thing I really can't save on: good coffee! I never get coffee from the vending machine at the UT. After hard work and a lot of studying, I reward myself with a double espresso.'
Money tip of the week
Financial expert Adine Faber gives a weekly money tip in this story section. This week her tip is about clothing.
Become a fan of giveaway groups and thrift stores
'Giveaway groups on Facebook and thrift stores are goldmines for free or low-cost stuff. You will find furniture, textbooks, kitchen utensils and sometimes even clothing. Not only do you save money, but you also give things a second life and prevent waste, which is good for your wallet and the environment. Pro tip: sign up for these kinds of groups in the wealthier neighborhoods. There's a good chance that you'll be able to score some really beautiful gems.'
Need more tips? Then take a look at Adine's Instagram account:
@moneymindacademy
About Adine Faber
Adine Faber is a financial expert, author, entrepreneur and mindset mentor. Her focus is on financial freedom for women, and makes money matters fun, clear and inspiring. Adine also hosts the Money Mind Podcast and has appeared on television, radio and in magazines and newspapers and won the Woman in the Media Award 2023 Friesland.
