RSSAvoid the Stampede: Buy Textbooks Online
As much as I sometimes miss college, I’m also glad I’m done with it. Sure I get nostalgic from time to time, but it’s like any good thing: you need to pass the torch on to the next generation.
In this case, one of my old neighbors—a surrogate little brother, really—is starting at the same college I went to. It’s going to be a lot of fun to hear stories about orientation and the classes he takes. I suppose while it’s not possible to relive your college days, you can at least live vicariously through another.
One thing I’m not going to miss is textbooks and the exorbitant amount they cost. First there’s the incredible hassle of going down to the campus bookstore (along with every other student) and pilfering through the stacks and stacks of books. Granted they tend to be at least somewhat organized by subject and class, but it doesn’t make the couple days leading up to the first day of classes any less frenzied.
Had I been smart in my college days, I would have shopped for my textbooks online. And I’m not talking Amazon.com, as good as their deals may be. I’m talking online stores that specialize in the buying and selling of textbooks. They seem to be sprouting up everywhere these days—no doubt due to students’ frustration with braving the lines at campus book stores.
With that being said, two in particular stood out for me. Firstly, there’s eCampus.com—a top educational resource provider of not just new and used textbooks, but college accessories, electronics, computers, gifts, and even Greek apparel. It’s literally your campus bookstore online. And while it’s great to support your own college, sometimes you really need a bargain on those textbooks and school supplies. Your school is getting enough money out of you as it is the way I see it!
Another great find is Book Byte, where students can buy and sell their quality textbooks. I wish I had known about this site in my college days, because I have a feeling that my campus bookstore shafted me out of a lot of money when I sold back my books. Considering how many new editions of books come out, at least half of my newly bought textbooks weren’t re-sellable later—a problem you’re not likely to encounter online at BookByte.com.
So if you’re a new college student, or know someone who is, do everyone a favor and let them know about their online textbook options. They’ll thank you later, because believe me I wish someone had let me know that these resources were out there.
Be sure also to also impart this last piece of advice: visit 58Coupons.com to find great eCampus discounts and Book Byte coupons to save big on those costly textbook purchases.
Most of all, enjoy those four years while they last!