At what age in your life did you start using coupons? I have to be honest, growing up I never thought twice about using them. I think a lot of this logic had to do with the fact that I relied so much on my parents. So what happens when you have graduated, started a new job and what once was not your responsibility has now plopped on your lap? At 22, I have come to realize that now is when you start being smart with your money and looking for ways to save.

I live in a neighborhood where most of the residents would be classified as “young professionals,” meaning most residents are going to school or just starting their professional careers. To my surprise, the topic of using coupons and saving money is something that has been continuously talked about. Recently a Harris Teeter, a grocery chain, opened in my neighborhood. I had never shopped there before but prior to it’s opening we received coupons in the mail for $10 off a purchase over $40. This coupon was the reason I started shopping at Harris Teeter and like clock work, every month we receive these coupons. Similarly, my neighbor had the same logic. What is even more ironic is that there is a grocery store closer to where we live but we pass right on by to get our $10 off. I should also point out that we live in the city so we walk everywhere. We walk 20 minutes further than the already 20 minute walk to get the $10 savings.

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