It’s no secret that most students aren’t exactly making bank. While we can usually afford to make regular Sheetz runs, take trips into the highly metropolitan areas of Altoona and State College, and do our laundry, recent high gas prices are taking a toll on students who own cars. These students react to the high gas prices and give their own pieces of advice on how they are coping with this change.

Bridget Hughes ‘11 Troy, Pa.:
High gas prices suck. I try to drive less and my Dad helps me out some with the cost when I do need to drive somewhere.

Anna Jaworski ‘11, Marcellus, N.Y.:
I am definitely not going to be driving much–I just can’t afford it, especially going to New York where gas is even more expensive. I just bought my car and I definitely took into consideration the size of the car and the gas mileage so I could save money. I also try to combine trips and only leave when it’s necessary. This summer I am going to live with my Grandmother and drive her places so I am hoping she will pay for the gas.

Rachel Gipe ‘11 Portland, Ore.:
I am trying to just ignore the high gas prices and not drive much. They are still lower than Europe and when I was in New Zealand–I think it’s expensive but not ridiculous. People here are spoiled and drive too much anyway.

Samantha Smith, ‘11 East Stroudsburg Pa:
To an extent, there’s nothing you really can do. For the most part the only time I use gas is when I am going home and coming back, so I try not to go home very often unless it’s a holiday. I also shop at Giant to get gas rewards but for the most part I rarely drive when I am on campus.

Caitlin Davies, ’10 St. Paul Minn:
Well, I don’t use my car unless I really need to. When I would drive home, I would usually wait till I got to Ohio to get gas because it was usually cheaper there. Last time I bought gas I had 30 cents off each gallon from Giant reward points which was awesome. I just wish it was cheaper.

~ Joyce Eveleth ‘11, Juniata Online Journalist