Staff Writer, Personal Finance
Olivia Nguyen writes the personal finance beat at Tips for Students. Her coverage ranges from day-to-day budgeting and side hustles to bigger decisions like federal versus private student loans, scholarship stacking, and first credit card strategy.
Career & JobsStarting salary, mid-career ceiling, and lifetime ROI produce three different "highest-paying majors" lists. Here’s what 25 majors pay in practice and why the winners change by lens.
Olivia Nguyen16 min
Money & FinanceYour first credit card at 18 is a small decision with a long shadow. Used right, it builds a score that saves thousands on future loans. Used badly, it adds interest charges that follow you for years. Here are the cards actually worth applying for in 2026 and the habits that separate strong credit from a collections account.
Olivia Nguyen12 min
Money & FinanceOne credit card, five habits, and 12 months. Here's the real timeline for building credit from zero to 700 as a college student.
Olivia Nguyen11 min
Money & FinanceCollege life can be fun, but let’s be honest — it’s also expensive. You have to pay for books, food, rent, and sometimes even coffee just to stay awake during those long study nights. Many students want to earn some extra money without giving up too much study time. The good news is, there are many
Olivia Nguyen11 min
Money & FinanceBeing a student can feel like your wallet has a hole in it. Between tuition fees, textbooks, and daily expenses, saving money might seem impossible. But don’t worry—it’s not! There are plenty of smart and simple ways to manage your money better and even put some aside for the future. In this article
Olivia Nguyen15 min
Money & FinanceAre you thinking about advancing your career but worried about the cost and time commitment of traditional education? Imagine earning a degree from the comfort of your home, at your own pace, all while opening the door to high-paying jobs. Online degrees are making this possible for so many people.
Olivia Nguyen6 min
Money & FinanceAre you a college student looking for a way to earn money without leaving your dorm room? Do you want a job that fits around your classes and social life? Remote jobs might be the perfect fit for you. Imagine being able to work from your favorite coffee shop, your comfy bed, or even while traveling.
Olivia Nguyen5 min
Money & FinanceWhether you're looking to earn some extra cash, gain valuable work experience, or simply want to explore your interests outside of the classroom, we've got you covered. In this article, we'll dive into a world of part-time job ideas for students like you, offering a friendly guide to help you naviga
Olivia Nguyen18 min
Money & FinanceAs a college student, it can be challenging to manage your finances and stick to a budget. But don't worry, we've got you covered. In this guide, we'll provide you with all the tips and tricks you need to take control of your finances and make the most of your college experience. We'll cover everyth
Olivia Nguyen16 min
Money & FinanceAre you a student looking for ways to save money on your housing costs? With the cost of college tuition increasing every year, it’s more important than ever to be mindful of your budget. Student housing can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be! There are plenty of ways to save money on your stud
Olivia Nguyen4 min
The SAVE plan is being shut down and about 7.2 million borrowers have 90 days to choose a new plan. Here is how the new RAP repayment plan works and what to do now.
Olivia Nguyen4 min
Georgia allocated $325 million for the new DREAMS Scholarship, the state's first need-based aid program. Up to $3,000 per student starting fall 2026.
Olivia Nguyen2 min