'I don't need much for a happy life'

| Jari Dokter

The basic grant is shrinking, tuition fees are rising and the long-term student fine is breathing down your neck. How do you make ends meet as a student? U-Today asks students how they survive in tight times. In this first episode the story of Martijn de Koe.

Photo by: Frans Nikkels

'I come from a village near Arnhem and have lived on campus since the start of my studies. Compared to other students, I live a carefree life and I am aware of that. My parents offer me financial support and I am lucky with that. They sent me a amount per month for the fixed costs, my grandparents pay my tuition fees and I receive a basic grant from DUO. This luxury position allows me to fully focus on studying, because I don't need a part-time job to make ends meet. I also don't accrue any student debt, because I don't borrow anything from DUO. For example, I even have the option to save a buffer if something breaks or to buy a gadget. My financial situation therefore does not fit into the typical student picture. I am therefore shocked when I read in the media that there are students with a debt of 60,000 euros.'

Spoiled 

‘I feel like I'm a spoiled kid who gets everything. Maybe that's true, but I'm really aware of my situation in today's student culture. Despite that, I don't need much for a happy life. I'm not the type of clubbing and I don't drink alcohol. My expenses mainly go to groceries: 300 euros per month. I thought that was shockingly high when I found out.'

Organic groceries

'The reason for my high grocery costs is that I buy organic products at Albert Heijn. So do my parents. I'm willing to spend more money per month on that, because it feels like a moral duty. The climate is going in the wrong direction. I want to do something about that, even though I know it is a nil percentage. For example, I don't eat meat. That saves a lot in the wallet. My protein poweder is based on 'soy protein'. I understand that many students can't afford to buy the often more expensive organic products.

Would you like to tell your story in this section? DM us via Instagram or send an email to: [email protected].

Money tip of the week

​​​​Financial expert Adine Faber gives a weekly money tip in this story section.This week she talks about a topic that affects us all: the groceries.

Do your shopping together
'You can buy super smartly together with your housemate or friends if you do it in bulk. You earn money and time because you don't have to go to the supermarket as often. Bulk packages are often cheaper and you always have stock on the shelf, which means less stress. Make sure you don't use much more.'

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.

Need more tips? Then take a look at Adine's Instagram account:
@moneymindacademy

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