WELCOME TO HOW I Spend My Money, a series on The Journal that looks at how people in Ireland really handle their finances. 

Are you a spender, a saver or a splurger? We’re asking readers to keep a record of how much they earn, what they save if anything, and what they’re spending their money on over the course of one week. If you’re interested, send a mail to money@thejournal.ie. We would love to hear from you.

Each money diary is submitted by readers just like you. When reading and commenting, bear in mind that their situation will not be relatable for everyone, it is simply an account of a week in their shoes, so let’s be kind.

Last time around, we heard from a digital journalist on €35K living and working in South Dublin. This week, a student on €21K in their final year of college who is planning to emigrate. 

I’m a horticulture student in my final year of college. I’m still living at home with my parents, which is great for me as I can save a lot of money on rent, but I contribute to the household bills and I do my own food shop every week. I only have to attend college classes a couple of days a week this year which has allowed me to get a part-time job in a local garden centre. After I graduate from college, I’m hoping to emigrate so I can find a better paid position in my career choice.

I try to put away as much as I can each month, but unexpected expenses arise quite regularly, mostly due to car maintenance. I also have quite a big family so it’s always someone’s birthday or some other milestone, which can add up quite quickly. At the moment, I don’t have too much spare time between college and work, but when I do I like to work on my garden or on my allotment where I grow some vegetables and herbs.

Monthly pay (net): €1,783

Household bills: €200

Savings: €100-€400 (this changes on a monthly basis)

7.30am: I wake up, take a shower and sit at my desk to do some college........

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