a simple but often overlooked way of saving money is to buy USED books for your classes. look ahead at what classes you’re taking and check prices online. most colleges also have bulletin boards or places where students can post used books for sale. there can be quite a large price difference between a new and used book.
considering that most of us will never open a textbook again after the class has ended, it makes no sense to buy a brand new book. newer editions also usually aren’t that much different from older ones.

having said that, make sure you post your own books for sale from previous semesters. you usually get a lot less back from the bookstores and you also get to help another poor college kid out too. don’t be lazy and soon you’ll have a stash of cash waiting to be spent at your local bars.