When it comes to saving as a college student, opinions can vary as widely as the latest TikTok trends. Some financial gurus suggest that you should aim to save about 20% of your income, while others insist that with student loans and the costs of living, any amount you can save is a victory. So, how do you figure out what realistic looks like? Let’s dive in.

First, think of your finances like a pizza. You’ve got different slices for different expenses: tuition, rent, groceries, and, of course, the occasional late-night pizza run. When you’re budgeting your income—whether it comes from part-time jobs, internships, or those rare but glorious scholarships—consider carving out a slice for savings. If you’re earning a decent amount, aiming for that 20% savings target isn’t just a dream; it could be a delicious reality. But remember, that’s not a hard and fast rule. It’s more like a guideline from a wise, old wizard in a fantasy movie.

Now, if you’re in the throes of your college journey and your income resembles that of a struggling artist, saving might feel a bit like trying to find Waldo in a crowd. When expenses are low, saving what you can is a solid strategy. Even if it’s just a few bucks here and there, those small contributions can add up over time, kind of like how every Marvel movie builds up to the epic team-up in the Avengers.

Consider this: start with a goal that feels achievable. Maybe it’s saving $25 a month, or if you’re feeling adventurous, try to bump it up to $50. The important thing is to make it a habit. Once you get used to putting a little aside, you might find that it’s easier than finishing that Netflix series you’ve been binging. Set up an automatic transfer to a savings account each time you get paid and watch your savings grow—slowly but surely, like that plant you forgot to water.

Don’t forget to keep an eye on those expenses, too. Think of it like managing your health: you wouldn’t just eat junk food all day and hope to feel great, right? Monitor your spending habits and see where you can cut back. Maybe that daily coffee run can be swapped for a homebrew, or that subscription you forgot about can be canceled. Every little bit counts and can contribute to your savings goal.

Lastly, remember that college is also about experiences. It’s totally okay to spend on things that matter to you, like that concert or a spontaneous weekend trip with friends. Just do it with a plan in mind. Strike a balance between enjoying the moment and saving for future adventures—because one day, you’ll be a grown-up who wishes they had a few more fun memories from college.

So, how much should you save as a college student? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s about finding your own rhythm in the financial dance of college life. Whether it’s 20%, a little less, or whatever you can muster, just remember: every dollar saved is a stepping stone towards your financial future. And who knows? Those savings might just help you fund your next big adventure or that amazing post-graduation celebration you’ve been dreaming about.