• Thursday, February 06, 2025: Drive Your Future: Master the Car Buying Game from 04:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. in Festival Highlands Room: ired of feeling lost in the car-buying process? This seminar by Finance Professor Jeff Hulett will teach you how to confidently navigate every step, from understanding financing options to spotting the best deals. Learn insider tips and tools to make car buying simple, empowering, and stress-free—because your dream car should come with peace of mind. Register here
• Bankroll Your Best Life: Budgeting Hacks for JMU Students| Febraury 20, 2025, in Festival Highlands Room @ 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm: Personal Finance Professor Jeff Hulett is Ready to help you take control of your finances and make your money work for you? In this seminar, discover simple, actionable budgeting hacks tailored for JMU students. Learn how to save smarter, spend wiser, and build lifelong financial confidence—all while living your best college life. Register here
• Personal Investing for the Recent Graduate By Dr. Jason Douglas Fink| , Febrauary 27, 2025, in Taylor 305 @ 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm: This presentation will cover the basics of investing, starting at the very beginning (such as What is a stock? What is a bond?), and building to a point where students will understand the importance of investing in a 401(k), and how to choose a solid portfolio to do so. The importance of diversification, starting early, investing in only what you understand, and the use of tax advantaged accounts will all be demonstrated. Register here
• Money is a Mindset: April 16, 2025, in Taylor 306 @ 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm by Finance Coach Lindsey Scott. Money is an emotional topic. As we walk through life, we pick up different attitudes and beliefs around money to form our own money mindset. Curious what your money mindset is and how unlocking it is your key to true financial wellness? Register here
• Networking the Easy Way: Conversation Skills for Career Development | , April 8, 2025, in Taylor 306 @ 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm: It’s easy in the job search to get sucked into the black hole of online applications, submitting resume after resume with no response from employers. Escaping that void comes down to who you know and how you talk to them. Come learn how to set up and navigate simple conversations to build your network and let your connections bring the opportunities to you. Register Here
• How to crush real life | April 02,  2025, in Festival Ballroom A @ 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm :  OCL is thrilled to welcome back Pete Hardesty, co-author of two Amazon #1 bestsellers, Adulting 101 Books 1 and 2. Join us for his compelling presentation, Transitioning into the "real world" can feel overwhelming, but with the right strategies, you can navigate it with confidence. This workshop will cover five key areas essential for success, including overcoming anxiety, managing finances effectively, excelling in the workplace, and practical life hacks to make daily living easier. Join us for an engaging session packed with insights and actionable tips to help you thrive in every aspect of life! Register here

Our financial coaching sessions are tailored specifically for JMU students! Get personalized advice on creating a spending plan, saving for short-term goals like spring break, or even managing your first paycheck from an internship. Consultations are free, confidential, and available in person or virtually.

Schedule your session today with our Financial Literacy Graduate Assistant, Sushma Shivalingaiah, by emailing her at shivalsx@dukes.jmu.edu. Take control of your finances and plan for a successful future!

Office Hours:

Mon – 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM 

Tuesday – 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM 

Wednesday-12:00 PM to 5:00 PM 

Thursday-12:00 PM to 5:00 PM 

Make Your Money Last—Without Sacrificing Fun

Budgeting is the cornerstone of financial wellness. You can create a plan for your spending and saving by tracking income and expenses. Budgeting doesn’t have to be boring. Think of it as creating a strategy so your money works for you, not the other way around. Here's how to get started:

1. Build your starting budget: Know where your money is going

Before you can save money, you need to understand how you’re spending it. Break your monthly costs down into two categories:

• Essentials: Rent, utilities, groceries, gas, phone bill
  
  
• Non-essentials: Eating out, streaming services, Cook Out runs, concerts, coffee
  
  
• Set up a spreadsheet or use apps to keep things organized and easy to update.

2. Track your expenses

Track everything you spend for at least two to three months. You’ll start to notice spending patterns — like how $4 coffee turns into $80 by the end of the month.

• Use your bank app or budgeting software to track automatically
• Review weekly, such as on Sunday evenings
• Adjust regularly — your budget should grow and evolve with you

3. Compare Income vs Expenses

Once you’ve tracked your spending, it’s time to compare it with your actual income:

• Income: Paychecks, family support, financial aid refunds, scholarships
  
  
• Expenses: Essentials and non-essentials you’ve tracked
  
  

If your expenses are higher than your income, it’s time for a reality check. Are there any areas where you can cut back, like dining out or subscription services? Could you meal prep more often or share costs with roommates?

4. Differentiate Needs vs Wants

Learning the difference between what you need and what you want is one of the most valuable adulting skills you can develop.

• Needs: Rent, food, transportation, school supplies
  
  
• Wants: New shoes, bubble tea every day, premium music subscriptions
  
  

Try the 24-hour rule: If you want to make an impulse purchase, wait a full day. If you still want it after 24 hours, go for it. If not, you just saved yourself money and regret.

5. Set Financial Goals

Money without a goal tends to disappear fast. Create short- and long-term financial goals to stay focused and motivated.

• Short-Term: Save $100 a month for spring break, build a $500 emergency fund
  
  
• Long-Term: Pay off student loans faster, build credit, start investing after graduation
  
  

Write your goals down and check in on your progress monthly. Watching your savings grow or debt shrink is surprisingly satisfying.

Estimated Harrisonburg living cost

Even without a budgeting calculator, you can get a realistic picture of how much it costs to live off-campus around JMU. Here’s what a typical student might expect to pay each month:

Disclaimer: These figures are based on average student experiences and are intended to provide a general overview. Actual expenses can vary significantly depending on your lifestyle, spending habits, housing choice, and personal preferences. Use this as a starting point, not a fixed guide.

The Pantry

The Pantry is a joint effort on campus, supported by the Basic Needs Advisory Board, co-chaired by Off-Campus Life and Community Service-Learning staff, and university and Harrisonburg community partners. The Blue Ridge Area Food Bank ensures we have a consistent supply of quality, nutritious food options. The Pantry is stocked with shelf-stable goods, some hygiene products, a limited selection of fresh produce from JMU Dining Services each week, as well as fresh bread.

• Main Pantry: The Union, Taylor Down Under, Room 112; Monday from 12:00 - 6:00 p.m.; Tuesday-Thursday from 12:00 - 5:00 p.m.
• East Pantry: EnGeo, Room 0302; Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 12:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Navigating food expenses is a significant aspect of student life. At JMU, there are various options to help you manage your food budget effectively, whether you're on a meal plan or cooking independently.

Understanding JMU Meal Plans:

Meal Punches grant access to all-you-care-to-eat dining halls like D-Hall and E-Hall. Dining Dollars function as a declining balance, usable at various campus dining locations, vending machines, and concessions. They offer tax-exempt purchases, providing savings over cash or credit.

Duke Deals allow you to exchange a Meal Punch for a combo meal at select retail locations on campus, offering flexibility and variety in dining options.

Budgeting for Offcampus living

If you live off-campus or prefer cooking, budgeting for groceries and dining out is essential. Here's a general monthly estimate:

• Groceries: $150–$250

• Dining Out: $60–$120

These figures can vary based on dietary preferences and habits. Planning meals, buying in bulk, and cooking at home can significantly reduce food expenses.

Food Assistance Resources

JMU provides resources for students facing food insecurity:

• The Pantry: Offers non-perishable food items and hygiene products. Located at Taylor Down Under and East Campus.

• Meal Vouchers: Available through The Pantry for students in need, providing access to campus dining facilities.

Additionally, external resources like the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank and RockBurg Feeds can assist in finding local food pantries and meal programs.

Tips for Managing food expenses:

• Plan Your Meals: Create a weekly meal plan to avoid impulse purchases.

• Shop Smart: Use student discounts, buy generic brands, and take advantage of sales.

• Cook at Home: Preparing meals can be more cost-effective than dining out.

• Utilize Campus Resources: Make the most of your meal plan and campus dining options.

By understanding your options and planning accordingly, you can maintain a healthy diet while staying within your budget.

The cost estimates and resources provided above are meant to serve as general guidelines based on available information. Individual expenses may vary depending on lifestyle, dietary needs, and living arrangements. Students are encouraged to evaluate their own spending habits and financial needs when making food and budget decisions. All meal plan prices are subject to change. For the most accurate and updated information, please refer to JMU Dining Services or speak with a university representative.

College is often the first time students gain full control over their personal finances. Knowing where your money typically goes can help you build a smarter budget and reduce financial stress. Whether you are living on-campus or off, understanding the breakdown of common student expenses is a powerful first step toward making informed choices.

Typical Monthly student expenses for JMU (Off campus Living):

Average Total Monthly Cost (Off-Campus): $1,100–$1,700, depending on lifestyle and choices.

Hidden and Often overlooked expenses:

Some expenses can sneak up on students because they are less frequent or not often considered. Be sure to factor in:

• Textbooks and Course Materials: Some semesters may require $200–$600+ in books and resources.

• Clothing & Laundry: Replacing worn-out clothes, seasonal wear, or laundry costs (if not included in rent).

• Travel Home: Flights, bus tickets, or gas for trips during holidays and breaks.

• Fees and Subscriptions: Streaming services, online storage, exam fees, student org dues.

• Unexpected Emergencies: Medical bills, car repairs, or housing maintenance

  Spending Patterns to Watch

  College students often underestimate how much they spend on:

• Eating out — Small purchases add up quickly.
• Subscription fatigue — Spotify, Netflix, Apple Music, Disney+, etc.
• Impulse shopping — Late-night online orders or on-campus bookstore splurges.
• Coffee and snacks — Daily $4 drinks can total $100+ a month.

By identifying these areas early, you can better control them and find affordable alternatives that work with your budget.

Tips for Smarter Spending

• Use a budget app to visualize your spending habits in real-time.
• Shop with a list to avoid impulse buying at grocery stores.
• Utilize campus resources like the UREC gym, free events, and campus discounts.
• Meal prep and cook at home to stretch your grocery dollars.
• Share costs with roommates for common items like toilet paper, cleaning supplies, and kitchenware.

The expenses and figures listed above are based on local averages in Harrisonburg and feedback from current students. They are not guarantees or fixed costs. Actual expenditures may vary based on your housing choice, personal habits, lifestyle, academic program, and transportation needs. These figures should be used as general planning tools, not definitive expectations. Students are encouraged to track their personal spending closely and adapt budgets to their unique circumstances.

Credit cards can be powerful tools for building your credit score and managing your finances — but if not used carefully, they can also lead to debt. As a college student, understanding how credit cards work is crucial for maintaining financial health now and in the future. Here’s everything you need to know to use credit cards responsibly.

What is a Credit card?

A credit card is a type of loan issued by a bank or financial institution, allowing you to borrow money up to a set limit to make purchases or pay for services. Each time you use a credit card, you are essentially borrowing money that you agree to pay back later.

Key Terms to Know:

• Credit Limit: The maximum amount you can borrow on your card. It’s typically based on your credit score, income, and payment history.

• APR (Annual Percentage Rate): The interest rate charged on any outstanding balance. If you don’t pay off your balance in full each month, you will incur interest charges.

• Credit Score: A number that represents your creditworthiness, or how likely you are to repay borrowed money. A higher score means lower borrowing costs.

• Minimum Payment: The smallest amount you must pay by the due date to avoid late fees. Paying only the minimum will result in high interest charges over time.

• Grace Period: A period (usually 21–30 days) during which you can pay your bill in full without being charged interest on purchases.

How Credit cards affect your Finances:

Credit cards can be both beneficial and risky, depending on how you use them:

• Building Credit: Making timely payments on your credit card can help you build a positive credit history, which will be essential when you apply for loans, apartments, or even jobs in the future.

• Credit Utilization: This is the percentage of your available credit that you’re using. Ideally, you want to keep it under 30%. For example, if you have a $1,000 limit, try not to spend more than $300.

• Interest and Fees: If you don’t pay off your balance in full each month, you’ll be charged interest — and those interest payments can add up quickly. Some credit cards also have annual fees, late payment fees, or over-limit fees, so it's important to be aware of the terms.

• Rewards and Benefits: Many credit cards offer perks like cashback, rewards points, or travel benefits. While these can be great, they shouldn’t tempt you to overspend or carry a balance.

How to use your credit card Responsibly

• Pay Your Bill in Full Every Month: This is the easiest way to avoid paying interest and keep your finances in check. Try to pay off your balance as soon as possible after making purchases.
• Keep Track of Spending: It’s easy to lose track of your spending when you're using a credit card. Set a budget and make sure you stick to it.
• Avoid Late Fees: Set reminders for your payment due dates or set up automatic payments to ensure you never miss a payment.
• Use Your Credit Wisely: Don’t use your credit card as a way to spend beyond your means. Keep purchases within your budget, and only use your credit card for things you can afford to pay off in full.
• Know Your Interest Rates: If you need to carry a balance, be sure to understand how much interest you’ll be paying. Look for cards with low APRs if you’re carrying a balance.
• Build Your Credit Slowly: Start with a credit card that has a low limit and gradually increase it as you prove you can manage your spending and payments.

The information provided about credit cards is intended as a general guide for college students at JMU. Credit card terms and fees vary widely depending on the financial institution, card issuer, and individual credit history. It is important to carefully read the terms and conditions before applying for or using any credit card. Students are encouraged to consult with a financial advisor for personalized guidance on managing credit responsibly.

As a college student, taxes might seem like a distant worry. But, understanding taxes is an essential part of being financially responsible — especially as a JMU student. Whether you’re working a part-time job, receiving financial aid, or earning scholarships, it’s important to know how taxes affect you. Here's a breakdown of what you need to know as a student at JMU.

Do JMU Students need to file Taxes?

Yes! If you earn income — whether from a part-time job, an internship, or freelance work — you’re likely required to file taxes. Even if you’re only working on-campus at JMU or have a summer job, filing your taxes is essential. Here are the main categories of income you might earn that could require filing taxes:

• Wages or Salary: If you’re working a job on or off-campus, you’ll likely receive a W-2 form, which reports your wages for the year.

• Self-Employment Income: If you’re freelancing, doing gig work, or earning money through a business, you’ll report this income using a 1099 form.

• Scholarships and Grants: If you receive scholarships or grants, some of the money may be taxable, especially if it's used for non-qualified expenses like room and board. However, scholarships that pay for tuition, fees, and required books are typically tax-free.

• Financial Aid: Federal financial aid (e.g., Pell Grants, work-study) is generally not taxable unless used for non-qualified expenses.

How to File Taxes as a JMU Student

• Gather Your Documents: Start by collecting the tax documents you receive. Here are some common forms:

  1. W-2: For income earned from a job.

  2. 1099: For income from freelance or contract work.

  3. 1098-T: For tuition payments and other education-related expenses (helpful for claiming the Education Credit).

  4. 1098-E: If you have student loan interest to report.

• Choose the Right Tax Filing Method:

  1. IRS Free File: If your income is under a certain amount (around $73,000 for 2024), you can file your federal taxes for free through the IRS website using Free File.

  2. Tax Software: There are programs out there that can guide you through filing your taxes step-by-step. Many offer student discounts or even free filing for simple returns.

  3. Tax Professional: If your situation is more complicated, consider consulting with a tax professional. This might be helpful if you’re working multiple jobs, have self-employment income, or have special tax deductions.

• Filing Deadlines:

  1. April 15th: The IRS deadline for filing your federal income tax return. If you miss it, you could face penalties or interest on unpaid taxes. If you're unable to meet the deadline, you can file for an extension (but taxes still need to be paid on time).

  2. State Taxes: Don’t forget about Virginia state taxes! Even if you’re just working part-time, you may need to file state taxes in Virginia. Be sure to check the Virginia Department of Taxation website for specific guidelines.

Tax Benefits for JMU Students

As a student, there are a few tax benefits that can help lower your tax bill:

• Education Tax Credits: You may be eligible for the American Opportunity Credit or the Lifetime Learning Credit. These can help offset the cost of your tuition and other qualified expenses.

• Student Loan Interest Deduction: If you’re paying back student loans, you can deduct up to $2,500 of interest paid on federal student loans. This can lower your taxable income, saving you money.

• Work-Study and Tax Exemptions: If you’re working on-campus through JMU’s Federal Work-Study program, the money you earn is generally not taxable for federal purposes, but it may still be taxable at the state level.

Common Tax Questions for JMU Students

1. What if I Don’t Make Enough to File?

   • Even if you don’t earn a lot, it may still be worth filing taxes. If taxes were withheld from your paycheck, you might be eligible for a refund. Filing your taxes is also an important way to start building your tax history for future years.

2. What About Scholarships?

   • As mentioned earlier, scholarships used for tuition, books, and required fees are generally not taxable. However, if you use scholarship money for living expenses or other non-qualified expenses, that portion could be taxable.

3. Do I Need to File Taxes If I Only Work Part-Time at JMU?

   • Yes! Even part-time income, whether earned on-campus or off-campus, typically requires you to file taxes. Make sure to keep track of any forms your employer provides, such as a W-2.

4. What if I Don’t Have a Job but Still Get Financial Aid?

   • If you’re not earning income through a job but are receiving financial aid, you may not need to file taxes unless the financial aid exceeds tuition and fees or is used for living expenses. However, if you have unreported taxable income, such as from a side hustle or gift income, you’ll still need to report it.

Tips for JMU Students Navigating Taxes

• Keep Good Records: Save all your pay stubs, W-2 forms, and any records related to scholarships or financial aid. This will make filing your taxes much easier.

• Use Tax Prep Services: If you’re unsure about filing, take advantage of free tax prep assistance offered by many organizations and universities. At JMU, look out for campus workshops during tax season.

• Consult JMU Financial Services: If you have questions specific to your financial aid or scholarships, the JMU Financial Aid Office is a great resource.

The information provided here is meant to serve as a general guide and is not intended as tax advice. Tax laws are subject to change, and individual circumstances vary. It’s recommended that students consult with a tax professional or use IRS-approved tax software when preparing their tax returns. Always ensure that you’re complying with both federal and state tax requirements, including Virginia state taxes. If you have any questions or concerns about your specific situation, please reach out to JMU’s Financial Aid Office or a licensed tax professional.

Setting clear, achievable financial goals is one of the best ways to ensure that you’re managing your money effectively. Whether you want to build a safety net for emergencies, save for a big purchase, or pay off your student loans, having a plan will help you stay focused and motivated. Here’s how to set, track, and achieve your financial goals as a JMU student.

Why Set Financial Goals?

As a JMU student, you’ve probably got a lot of things on your plate: classes, work, extracurriculars, and of course, social life. Financial goals give you a clear sense of direction for your money, helping you prioritize and balance your spending. Setting goals ensures you make intentional decisions with your money, rather than letting it slip away on impulse purchases or unnecessary expenses.

Financial goals help:

• Establish Clear Priorities: Figure out what’s most important (saving for a trip, building an emergency fund, etc.) and put your resources toward those priorities.

• Motivate Yourself: Reaching financial milestones, no matter how small, gives you a sense of accomplishment and makes managing money feel rewarding.

• Plan for the Future: Whether you’re thinking about studying abroad, buying a car, or preparing for life after graduation, goal setting ensures you’re prepared for what’s ahead.

How to Set Smart Financial Goals

Creating financial goals that are specific, measurable, and achievable is key. This approach is often referred to as SMART goal setting. Here's a breakdown:

1. Specific: Define your goal clearly

Start with a goal that is specific and concrete. Instead of saying “I want to save more money,” say, “I want to save $1,000 for a summer internship.” Being clear about the goal will help you create a path to achieve it.

2. Measurable: Make sure you can track your progress

Make sure your goal is something you can measure. For example, if you want to save money, set a dollar amount. “I want to save $100 per month for the next six months” gives you a tangible target.

3. Achievable: Be realistic about your goal

While it’s great to be ambitious, make sure your goal is within reach. Setting an unrealistic goal could lead to frustration. For example, saving $5,000 in a month might be difficult if you’re working part-time and paying for tuition. Start small and build up over time.

4. Relevant: Make sure it aligns with your priorities

Your financial goals should be aligned with what matters most to you. If studying abroad is something you’re passionate about, saving for that experience should be a top priority. Make sure your goal reflects your lifestyle and values.

5. Time-Based: Set a deadline

Give yourself a reasonable timeline to accomplish your goal. Setting a deadline helps you stay on track and avoid procrastination. For example, “I want to save $1,500 for a spring break trip by December 1” provides a clear timeframe.

Types of Financial Goals for JMU Students

Here are a few common financial goals JMU students might focus on:

Short-Term Goals (0-6 months):

• Emergency Fund: Build a small emergency fund (e.g., $500–$1,000) for unexpected expenses. This could cover anything from a car repair to an urgent medical need.

• Saving for a Semester Abroad: Plan and save for an upcoming study abroad program by setting aside money every month.

• Textbook Fund: Save for the cost of textbooks and supplies each semester.

• Dining Out Fund: If you’re tempted by campus eateries or takeout, set a goal to spend a fixed amount each month on dining out and track your spending.

Medium-Term Goals (6 months – 1 year):

• Paying Down Credit Card Debt: If you have credit card debt, aim to pay it off within a set timeframe. For example, “I want to pay off $500 in credit card debt by the end of the year.”

• Build Your Savings for Graduation: Start saving for your post-graduation life, such as moving expenses or a new apartment.

• Travel Fund: Set a goal to save for a weekend trip or spring break vacation.

Long-Term Goals (1+ years):

• Saving for a Car or Other Big Purchases: If you plan to buy a car after graduation or save for a significant life event (like starting a family or buying a home), start planning and saving for it early.

• Paying Off Student Loans: While this might seem far away, starting to plan for your student loan payments can help you manage them better once you graduate.

• Retirement Savings: It’s never too early to start thinking about retirement. If you have a part-time job that offers a retirement plan, consider starting early.

Tracking Your Progress

Once you’ve set your goals, it’s time to track your progress. This helps ensure you’re on the right path to achieving them.

• Budgeting Apps: Use apps like Mint, YNAB (You Need A Budget), or Goodbudget to track your spending and savings. These tools can sync with your bank accounts and help you monitor your goals in real time.

• Set Reminders: Use your phone’s calendar or apps like Google Keep to set reminders for when to review your financial goals and adjust your plan if necessary.

• Celebrate Milestones: When you reach a goal, no matter how small, reward yourself! Whether it’s a celebratory meal or just taking a moment to feel proud, acknowledging your progress will keep you motivated.

Tips for Sticking to Your Financial Goals

• Start Small: Don’t set too many goals at once. Focus on one or two at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

• Automate Savings: If you can, set up automatic transfers to your savings account to make sure you're consistently saving for your goals.

• Avoid Temptation: Use budgeting tools to avoid overspending, and remember the difference between needs and wants. Resist the urge to impulse buy by considering whether your purchase will help you achieve your financial goals.

• Stay Flexible: Life happens, and your financial situation might change. Be flexible and adjust your goals as necessary.

Common Roadblocks and How to Overcome Them

• Limited Income: If your income is limited (like many JMU students working part-time), it can be hard to save. However, even saving small amounts regularly can make a big difference over time.

• Unexpected Expenses: Emergencies are a part of life. Always keep a portion of your savings for unexpected events, like car repairs or medical bills, and replenish your emergency fund as soon as possible.

• Lack of Motivation: Financial goals can sometimes feel far off, making it difficult to stay motivated. Break down big goals into smaller, more achievable steps and celebrate your wins along the way.

This guide is meant to help you set and achieve financial goals in a way that is practical and tailored to your life as a JMU student. Keep in mind that everyone’s financial situation is different, and the strategies outlined here may need to be adjusted based on your personal circumstances. If you need more personalized financial advice, consider reaching out to a financial advisor or using resources available through JMU’s Financial Aid Office.

College is an exciting time, but it’s also a time when students are often targeted by scammers and fraudsters. Whether through emails, phone calls, or social media, the bad guys are always looking for ways to take advantage of unsuspecting individuals. As a JMU student, it’s crucial to stay informed about the types of scams and frauds that can happen and how to protect yourself.

Types of Scams Targeting College Students

1. Phishing Scams

Phishing is when scammers send you an email or text pretending to be from a trusted source, such as your bank, the university, or a legitimate business. These messages typically include a sense of urgency, asking you to click a link or provide personal information.

Signs of phishing:

• Generic greetings like “Dear Student” instead of using your actual name.

• Requests for personal information (e.g., your Social Security number, account passwords, or bank details).

• Suspicious email addresses or misspelled URLs.

• Links that don’t seem to direct to the real website (hover over links to check).

How to protect yourself:

• Never click on links in unsolicited emails or texts.

• If the message appears to come from JMU, verify it by visiting official websites or contacting the department directly.

• Use two-factor authentication for sensitive accounts like email, banking, and university portals.

2. Fake Job Scams

Students looking for part-time jobs, internships, or summer work can fall victim to job scams. These often involve fake job postings that promise high wages with little work, or jobs that require you to pay upfront fees for training materials.

Signs of fake job scams:

• Job offers that seem too good to be true (e.g., high pay for minimal hours or easy tasks).

• Requests for upfront payment or personal information like your Social Security number before you’ve even been hired.

• A lack of a formal job interview or real communication beyond the initial offer.

How to protect yourself:

• Research the company or organization thoroughly.

• Never pay for a job, training, or materials before receiving a legitimate offer.

• Use JMU’s career services and job boards for job listings that are vetted and trustworthy.

3. Rental Scams

Off-campus living can be a great experience, but rental scams are a risk. Scammers often post fake rental listings, asking for deposits or rent payments before you’ve even seen the property.

Signs of rental scams:

• The landlord or property manager is unavailable for an in-person viewing.

• The deal seems too good to be true (e.g., rent below market value for the area).

• You are asked to wire money or send payment via untraceable methods.

How to protect yourself:

• Always visit the property before signing any rental agreements or sending money.

• Use legitimate housing resources like JMU Off-Campus Life or well-known local property managers.

• Be cautious when asked for wire transfers or non-secure payment methods.

4. Credit Card & Identity Theft

Scammers can steal your personal information and open credit cards or loans in your name. They may also engage in fraudulent activities by stealing your identity through physical or online methods.

Signs of credit card fraud:

• Unexpected charges on your credit card statement.

• Unsolicited offers for “free” credit cards or loans that seem too good to be true.

• Calls or emails asking you to verify credit card information, especially if they claim to be from your bank.

How to protect yourself:

• Regularly monitor your credit card statements for unusual charges.

• Set up alerts with your bank or credit card company for transactions.

• Use a strong password for all accounts, and don’t share your personal or banking information over the phone or email unless you are sure it’s legitimate.

5. Online Marketplace Scams

As a JMU student, you might buy and sell textbooks, furniture, or electronics on online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or other student-focused platforms. However, these transactions can sometimes lead to scams.

Signs of online marketplace scams:

• The seller or buyer is unwilling to meet in person or refuses to provide additional pictures of the product.

• Requests to send payment via unconventional methods like gift cards or wire transfers.

• The item is priced too low to be true or they pressure you to act quickly.

How to protect yourself:

• Always meet in a public place, such as a local coffee shop or campus area, to exchange goods.

• Use secure payment methods (e.g., PayPal or Venmo) instead of wiring money or paying with gift cards.

• Trust your instincts—if the deal feels off, walk away.

How to Protect Yourself from Scams

1. Be Cautious with Personal Information

Your personal information is a valuable asset. Be mindful of what you share online, especially on social media. Scammers can use this information to target you with more personalized scams.

Tips:

• Avoid oversharing personal details on social media profiles, including your class schedule, home address, and phone number.

• Be careful when sharing your student ID number and other private information.

2. Secure Your Devices

Keeping your devices secure is one of the most important ways to protect yourself from scams and fraud. Use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and keep your software up-to-date to prevent hacking attempts.

Tips:

• Use antivirus software on your devices.

• Set strong, unique passwords for all your accounts (consider using a password manager).

• Avoid connecting to unsecured public Wi-Fi networks for sensitive activities like online banking or shopping.

3. Stay Informed and Educated

Scammers are constantly coming up with new tactics. The more aware you are of the types of scams that can affect you, the more likely you are to spot them before they cause harm.

Tips:

• Regularly check for updates on common scams through resources like JMU’s Off-Campus Life, campus security, or trusted financial websites.

• Follow official JMU social media accounts to stay updated on any student-related scams or alerts.

What to Do If You Suspect a Scam

If you think you’ve been targeted by a scam or fraud, here’s what you should do:

1. Report the Scam: Report any suspicious activity to JMU’s Campus Security, your bank, and any other relevant authorities (e.g., the FTC for fraud). If it’s a housing or job scam, reach out to the JMU Off-Campus Life office.

2. Alert Your Bank: If you suspect your financial information has been compromised, contact your bank immediately. They can freeze your account and help you investigate any unauthorized transactions.

3. Change Your Passwords: If you’ve fallen victim to an online scam or had your personal information stolen, change your passwords for any affected accounts, and set up alerts for suspicious activity.

4. Stay Calm: Scams can feel overwhelming, but remember that you can take steps to regain control of your finances and personal information.

This guide is intended to provide awareness and general advice on how to identify and avoid scams while attending JMU. Keep in mind that fraud and scams are ever-evolving, and no guide can cover every potential situation. Always verify information from trusted sources before making financial or personal decisions.

For more information on how to protect yourself from scams and fraud, and for further financial literacy resources, check out the Adulting after college page on the JMU website. This page provides helpful tips, tools, and resources to support you in managing finances, navigating life after college, and staying informed about potential risks.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding housing or financial literacy, don’t hesitate to reach out to our Off-Campus Life Office. We’re here to assist you with guidance and support in navigating any housing or financial-related issues.

Stay informed, stay safe, and remember we’re here to help!