tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6988968448728826592024-03-05T19:17:26.426-08:00The Refined College GraduateEntering the Real WorldAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03891162823810612701noreply@blogger.comBlogger28125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-698896844872882659.post-73795655646167644552012-07-23T16:13:00.000-07:002012-07-23T16:13:31.280-07:00Real Estate InvestingI recently found the blog <u>Afford Anything </u>written by Paula Pant. I have to say after reading 12+ articles I really like the advice she dishes out. I really enjoy how she focuses on freeing time over everything else (one of my goals too). I especially honed in on her real estate investing articles.<br />
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Real estate can be an amazing investment for the refined college grad. One of the best benefits of real estate (this is especially helpful for recent college graduates) is the extreme amount of leverage it offers. There are few investments that allow a refined college grad to put more than 80-90% on the margin (cannot do that with stocks).<br />
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Paula hits on this in this article <a href="http://afford-anything.com/2011/03/11/if-i-had-a-million-dollars-id-go-into-debt/comment-page-2/#comment-5060" style="background-color: white;" target="_blank">Real Estate = Great Leverage</a> she says if she had a million dollars suddenly in her bank account she would "willingly and deliberately" go into debt. This is the smart move for a risk tolerant investor to increase cash flow. One point that is not made very clear in this article is with great leverage comes great risk (Spider-man reference complete). What I mean is that owing debt on five different income properties can be risky because if something goes wrong with one or multiple properties (neighborhood goes south, structural damages, tenant damages, vacancies ect.) the refined college graduate may find themselves in a mess of debt and take a big hit on net worth (or worst case face bankruptcy). The point is make sure that the property you buy is the right one. A good metric for this is Paula's 1% rule (the cash flow each month should be 1% of the purchase price + initial nonrecurring expenses).<br />
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This article is the perfect example of <a href="http://afford-anything.com/2012/03/14/we-bought-a-foreclosed-rental-house/" target="_blank">Finding the right property </a> the entire property was purchased for $21K with $9K of initial repairs. Even though it isn't in the perfect location it is a great buy from the sound of it.<br />
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My conclusion is to gain real estate exposure early with little capital buy REITS (mine has returned 14.25% in less than one year not including dividends). When the right property comes along cash out of the REIT and buy the property.<br />
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Leave a comment.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03891162823810612701noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-698896844872882659.post-86853718230881403912012-07-22T18:45:00.000-07:002012-07-22T18:45:14.800-07:00Passive Income...Not as Easy as it LooksBuilding wealth is all about getting money to work for the Refined Grad. It is about taking control of personal finances and getting more zeros in the asset column and less in the liabilities.<br />
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To a point this is in part about creating cash flow/ passive income. This is a dream of many but realized by few. The main problem is that too many college grads are looking for the quick out (thinking wealth can be created with little or no work). Here are a few articles describing how difficult it can be to create passive income.<br />
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<a href="http://www.moneylifeandmore.com/passive-income-not-as-passive-as-you-think-part-2-627/" target="_blank">Money Life and More</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.iwillteachyoutoberich.com/blog/how-i-traveled-for-3-weeks-and-made-passive-income/" target="_blank">I Will Teach You to be Rich</a> (This guy has an awesome book)<br />
<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=thereficollgr-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=0761147489&nou=1&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe>
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For ideas on how to create wealth and cash flow as a recent college grad like us on Facebook<br />
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<a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Refined-College-Graduate/227215090729226" target="_blank">The Refined College Graduate </a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03891162823810612701noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-698896844872882659.post-341457866077216092012-07-12T19:24:00.000-07:002012-07-12T19:24:22.972-07:00New Book Recommendation<div>
The Four Hour Workweek</div>
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This book has been out for some time now and I finally got around to reading it. It is a really easy light read with lots of tips on how to use time more efficiently. Tim Ferriss also goes into why more money does not make a person happier. I have said this for some time on this blog that in order to be happy try to buy experiences and time not material items. Enjoy!<br />
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<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=thereficollgr-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=0307465357&nou=1&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe>
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Let me know what you think on Facebook and Twitter. </div>
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<a href="http://www.brandonsun.com/lifestyles/breaking-news/assessing-your-budget-and-working-within-it-when-getting-married-young-is-vital-162251605.html?thx=y">Assessing your budget and working within it when getting married young is vital - Brandon Sun</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03891162823810612701noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-698896844872882659.post-89973224869766372912012-07-12T15:29:00.000-07:002012-07-12T15:29:46.648-07:00Logic StatementsHi this is the first post on Logic statements. The function used is one of the most common in Excel and can really help make a spreadsheet work and look better. This function is really great for auto filling cells (meaning less work for you).<br />
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<a name='more'></a>The =if statement is a very powerful Excel tool. It can save hours of manual data entry and help make a spreadsheet look great. Check it out for FREE here.<br />
<iframe height="480" src="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0BxmNG01IF8E9NU9SenJteHdhek0/preview" width="640"></iframe>
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Contact me anytime with questions. therefinedcollegegrad@gmail.comAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03891162823810612701noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-698896844872882659.post-12588656562527942692012-07-11T15:24:00.000-07:002012-07-11T15:24:25.378-07:00Excel of the Day: AverageHere is the newest Excel of the day (with a twist).<br />
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<a name='more'></a>Today is all about the average function. It is a simple function. There is also a small introduction on conditional formatting. There will be more posts on this in the future.<br />
<iframe height="480" src="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0BxmNG01IF8E9UVFNSmtQc01wXzQ/preview" width="640"></iframe>
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If there are any questions contact me at therefinedcollegegrad@gmail.com<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03891162823810612701noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-698896844872882659.post-34029872259319946042012-07-10T14:09:00.000-07:002012-07-10T14:09:07.428-07:00Excel Tip of the Day: Sum FunctionHere is day two of the daily Excel tip of the day. As stated yesterday I will start easy and work into more complex functions as time goes on.<br />
<a name='more'></a>The Sum function is one of the most common functions in Excel. The user can highlight straight down or can hold the ctrl button to select only desired cells. Here is a FREE downloadable version that can be used with google docs or Excel.<br />
<iframe height="480" src="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0BxmNG01IF8E9M2VsdXFzVmhYT0U/preview" width="640"></iframe>
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Email me at therefinedcollegegrad@gmail.com with questions<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03891162823810612701noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-698896844872882659.post-12485543199995631052012-07-09T17:12:00.001-07:002012-07-09T17:12:16.049-07:00Excel Tip of the DayI have decided to start a new series. I will publish an Excel tip of the day. Most users of my blog seem to enjoy my <a href="http://therefinedcollegegrad.blogspot.com/2012/06/personal-finance-budget-template.html" target="_blank">free budget template</a> so I figure I will help teach Excel to my users.<br />
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In this post I start with building a basic table with filters on it. I then use the small and large functions in excel to determine what is the oldest birthday and what the highest GPA is.<br />
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Check it out here...As always it is FREE to download or use in Google docs...<br />
<iframe height="480" src="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0BxmNG01IF8E9anNlMEN5ZjRKdGs/preview" width="640"></iframe>
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If you get stuck check out my comments or email me at therefinedcollegegrad@gmail.com<br />
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You can also tweet me at refinedgradAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03891162823810612701noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-698896844872882659.post-18090381978187361662012-06-22T16:12:00.000-07:002012-06-22T16:12:00.229-07:00A few drinks?<br />
This Drinking game looks like good clean fun for the refined college grad. What college grad doesn't love a little risky drinking. Click read more to see a great game for Friday night fun.<br />
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<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=thereficollgr-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=B003SBJXXI&ref=tf_til&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe>
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Have fun! Don't drink and drive.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03891162823810612701noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-698896844872882659.post-14895867111708364282012-06-21T19:48:00.001-07:002012-06-21T19:48:43.558-07:00Love Wine?The refined college graduate knows how to have a good time.<br />
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<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=thereficollgr-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=B001F7SGHQ&nou=1&ref=tf_til&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe>
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<b><u>Investment Portfolios: Getting Started </u></b><o:p></o:p></div>
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The refined college graduate knows the hardest part about
investing is getting started. In the first few months after graduation, the
recent college graduate likely has little to no savings. Starting one step at a
time is the best policy. This post will give some basic tips on the first (and
hardest) steps. <o:p></o:p></div>
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This post will assume that the refined grad is already at least
matching their company’s 401k plan, has paid off credit card debt and also is following
the suggestions in the <a href="http://therefinedcollegegrad.blogspot.com/2012/06/student-loans-how-refined-college-grad.html" target="_blank">STUDENT LOANS</a> post. If the refined grad does not
have a company 401k (or any retirement plan) there is nothing to panic about
just move to step one of this post. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The refined grad has completed all the goals above
(AWESOME!) but still wants to save more for the future. The refined grad knows
that the two main expenses that hinder wealth accumulation are taxes and
trading fees/management fees. Tax deferred accounts and quality discount brokerages
are the two best ways to get around losing too much to ‘the man’ and fees. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Technology has made investing amazingly easy. The college
grad can open a trading platform account such as <a href="https://www.tdameritrade.com/welcome4.html" target="_blank">TDAmeritrade</a> in about ten minutes.
Automatic payments (highly recommended) to the platform can be set up quickly
too. All of these trading platforms offer great training and support for
starter investors. Below are some suggestions on investing<span style="background-color: white;">.</span><br />
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<b>Step 1: it’s all about the numbers</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Until the refined graduate has at least a $10,000 portfolio
they should stick to commission free Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs). <a href="https://www.tdameritrade.com/welcome4.html" target="_blank">TDAmeritrade</a>
has over 100 of these. This will keep trading costs down while the graduate
builds wealth. After $10,000 is saved the refined college graduate will start
venturing into other investments. These will include mostly individual stocks. The
refined grad will not chase “sexy” investments and will rather take advice from
reputable sources such as <span style="background-color: #f3f3f3;"><a href="http://www.aaii.com/" target="_blank">AmericanAssociation of Individual Investors (AAII)</a> or the <a href="http://www.fool.com/" target="_blank">Motley Fool</a>.</span> The
refined college graduate knows to research each stock in depth before he/she
invests in it. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Step 2: accounts to park that money in</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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The refined graduate knows to start with a ROTH IRA account.
This kind of account will allow the refined college graduate to avoid paying
taxes on any gains or dividends (EVER!!) as long as the account is handled
properly (do not withdraw early). Once the graduate maxes out the ROTH IRA for
the year ($5000) they will want to start investing in a taxable account. There
are other tax deferred accounts but the refined college graduate knows that a
strong 401k and ROTH IRA will be good wealth building tools for retirement;
they will want to invest the rest of their money where they can get it easily. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Step 3: all-o-caution </b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Allocation of a portfolio is one of the hardest things to
suggest. Everyone will tell the young and naïve (perceived) college graduate
what the “best” investment strategy is. There are literally hundreds of books,
thousands of magazines and millions of internet postings on this. The problem
is all investors have different risk tolerances (full disclosure I have a high
risk tolerance). My suggestion for the refined college graduate would be to
have 5% foreign bonds, 25% individual stocks, 30% ETF’s/Mutual funds (in
various sectors of course), 15% in REITS, 5% commodities, 20% cash. Many would call
this a high risk portfolio; I am confident though in my research of each buy I make.
However, many college graduates do not want to take the time to do this in
depth research I do. In those cases I would recommend almost all mutual funds
and ETF’s. This will give great diversification with low expenses. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Once the investment portfolio and automatic deposits are
setup there is not much work needed on the refined college graduates part. I
suggest looking at the portfolio quarterly and rebalancing as needed. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Want an in depth easy to understand explanation of investing try: </div>
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0062006487/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=thereficollgr-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0062006487">The Truth About Money 4th Edition</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=thereficollgr-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0062006487" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
or:<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0761147489/ref=as_li_tf_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=thereficollgr-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0761147489">I Will Teach You To Be Rich</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=thereficollgr-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0761147489" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">These are two great books that really make investing easy.</span><br />
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Contact me with questions at <a href="mailto:therefinedcollegegrad@gmail.com">therefinedcollegegrad@gmail.com</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Refined-College-Graduate/227215090729226" target="_blank">Like us on Facebook </a><o:p></o:p></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03891162823810612701noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-698896844872882659.post-10017617695403945162012-06-19T19:27:00.001-07:002012-06-19T19:29:08.650-07:00Two Great Books on EtiquetteWe could all use a little more Etiquette. Here are two great books to get college grads where they need to be in social situations.<br />
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<a name='more'></a>This is a quick and easy read. Great for the basics.<br />
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<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&nou=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=thereficollgr-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=tf_til&asins=0312604270" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe>
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This is also a great read for college grads preparing for a dinner party.<br />
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<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=thereficollgr-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=B00144I6CK&nou=1&ref=tf_til&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03891162823810612701noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-698896844872882659.post-18937636945779489972012-06-17T11:19:00.002-07:002012-06-17T11:19:58.702-07:00Personal Finance Budget TemplateRefined college grads have asked me for various different templates they can use to track expenses and estimate debt payment.<br />
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Here is a budget template I use to track expenses and savings. I find this useful to check once a month to make sure goals are being met. I also highly recommend using <a href="http://mint.com/">Mint.com</a> to track all expenses and budget on a more daily basis.<br />
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Leave some comments so I know what all the refined college grads think.<br />
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Email me with questions at therefinedcollegegrad@gmail.com<br />
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<iframe height="480" src="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0BxmNG01IF8E9RFZjRElYY0htc0E/preview" width="640"></iframe>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03891162823810612701noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-698896844872882659.post-30538209233006724352012-06-17T07:52:00.000-07:002012-06-17T07:52:52.185-07:00Student Loans Templates for DownloadDear Refined Grads,<br />
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As requested here is a link to the Student Loans templates that can be downloaded (FO FREE!) to serve as a rough guide for paying off those student loans. Thank you for the suggestion!<br />
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Stay refined,<br />
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Otis<br />
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<iframe height="480" src="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0BxmNG01IF8E9aldRek0xUks5TUk/preview" width="640"></iframe>
<iframe height="480" src="https://docs.google.com/file/d/0BxmNG01IF8E9N1pCTG1FVl8zSzA/preview" width="640"></iframe>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03891162823810612701noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-698896844872882659.post-85923370660466111852012-06-16T15:11:00.001-07:002012-06-16T15:11:55.046-07:00Great ideas<div><p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cO2OX44iOig&feature=youtube_gdata_player">Watch "How to Make a Soda Can Beer Sleeve" on YouTube</a><br>
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</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03891162823810612701noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-698896844872882659.post-12591501840388334542012-06-14T17:03:00.001-07:002012-06-14T17:03:08.223-07:00Student Loans: How the refined college grad handles them<br />
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<b>Student Loans: How the refined college grad handles them</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Student loans can make or break graduate life after college. Student loans can be a source of constant worry and strife or seldom thought about. This post will go into what student loans are, how they work and how to manage them.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Four amazing years have come to a close. The books are sold or donated, final grades are in, the beer soaked rug is removed from the fraternity house and the first job is already lined up. One of the top comments of recent college graduates is: Now I will have Money! No more Ramen and Milwaukee’s Best Light (Ice for the real men). Now it will be all about Miller lite and steak (a ton of steak). There is one thing the typical college graduate is not thinking about that can come back to haunt them. Six months from graduation student loan bills will start arriving (if not enrolled in a graduate program). These are some of the most important bills a college graduate will have. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The refined grad knows there are two main types of student loans private and federal. These loans are structured in similar ways and have similar payment terms. They are VASTLY different in the interest rates they hold though.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Private Loans</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Private student loans are a special kind of hell. I know sounds it sounds extreme but they really are. Here is a quick list of the hellish features of these loans.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The college graduate cannot default on the loans. Yes even if down the road the college graduate declares bankruptcy, the loans are still there. OUCH!!! Kick them while they are down.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The loan’s interest kicks in when the loan was signed not when the grad gets out of school. This Means that all that interest has been compounding for as much as four and a half years.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The interest rates vary wildly based on the applicant and co-signer. The interest or (APR) can range anywhere from the low-3% to mid-10%. The interest really can add up quickly. Many college grads do not understand the power of compounding interest. See the table below for the thought process of many grads.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiZ-My47lg1EFGt3FB_zRpTh6INMUx9aYVPYBoS5s8GMZeeCBKnKYVwTH2g_vjT7RQjUWGLBM-JvszvBthGA6HJxZv2ZtIq6iA7UPWmaqNLIk-7e57NespCr5MdQs3AQVxRnARDsLX99Y/s1600/table+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiZ-My47lg1EFGt3FB_zRpTh6INMUx9aYVPYBoS5s8GMZeeCBKnKYVwTH2g_vjT7RQjUWGLBM-JvszvBthGA6HJxZv2ZtIq6iA7UPWmaqNLIk-7e57NespCr5MdQs3AQVxRnARDsLX99Y/s400/table+1.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Not too bad right? Only eight years and four months to pay off the entire loan at only $250 a month. WRONG! Even though most graduates know that their private loans hold high interest rates they willfully ignore them; out of sight out of mind sort of thing. Here is a chart that is a closer representation of reality.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjxnnIVnRVxiY5NAPuyy0bAWV9bqkIK76b5ahUkd69fx_fdwvtFRKtbeZYYMoLydRl4wH9MxNAH3PNFU9q3xbfw_p282HRWBCDuTp76UWSpVqKX-BvsTXpC2VzP8BJ3Z2rVnMZrusptts/s1600/table+2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjxnnIVnRVxiY5NAPuyy0bAWV9bqkIK76b5ahUkd69fx_fdwvtFRKtbeZYYMoLydRl4wH9MxNAH3PNFU9q3xbfw_p282HRWBCDuTp76UWSpVqKX-BvsTXpC2VzP8BJ3Z2rVnMZrusptts/s1600/table+2.png" /></a></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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In this more accurate example the college grad paid $250 a month for an extra four years and 3 months. In dollar terms this is $12,750 more than with no interest. Whhhhaaa??! Refined college graduates know the power of compounding interest. The effects are even greater when the grad starts with more debt or a higher interest rate.<o:p></o:p></div>
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What can be done? The refined college grad knows that loan’s with high interest rates should be paid as quickly as possible. Even a little extra money towards the monthly payment can make hundreds and even thousands dollars of difference. Here is a chart to help illustrate this. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHlKjYFrfg5DbiqpV3xzeJ83UCuru9ESNdlwYoUfOxdQYsfwcT1zRmkO032yfZXSlP8JcAHCSBx0zMnkzuwXf3JD_GPjUbACOkwiCH22XMCz0iat8Q_IX8JO0EcnHeO4-XaUkBxALdd1s/s1600/table+3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHlKjYFrfg5DbiqpV3xzeJ83UCuru9ESNdlwYoUfOxdQYsfwcT1zRmkO032yfZXSlP8JcAHCSBx0zMnkzuwXf3JD_GPjUbACOkwiCH22XMCz0iat8Q_IX8JO0EcnHeO4-XaUkBxALdd1s/s1600/table+3.png" /></a></div>
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For $450 a month the same loan with the same interest rate are paid off in less than half the time. This is $50 less than double of the original $250 monthly payment. Most college grads would think paying double per month and pay it in half the time. However this is not the case with the power of compounding interest. Paying double the amount will pay off the loan in less than half the time. Even if the college grad cannot pay $450 a month they understand that paying the most possible per month on private loans is highly important. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Many college grads get very angry at the banks that issue these loans or the government that “does not protect the consumer”. The refined college graduate knows that this is the largest load of crap ever. All of the college grads that can be seen on Youtube and the TV that hold signs saying ‘6 years of college $120k in debt, no job’ are idiots. The refined college graduate treats their life like a business; managing debt to assets and always ensuring there is steady cash flow. Okay, so what does that even mean? SNL said it best “don’t buy shit you can’t afford”. Every college grad needs to evaluate what the payoff of a college education will be. Many “experts” will tell you this is impossible because the college grad does not know what job or what salary (if any) they will receive upon graduation. This is false, there are multiple metrics that any college grad can use to determine if college will pay off in a reasonable amount of time.</div>
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<ul>
<li>How much private debt does the college grad plan to take on? If it is more $60k the college grad may want to rethink their choices (yes it is a choice). There are exceptions to this for college students who are in majors that typically lead to high paying starting jobs.</li>
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<ul>
<li>What is the college student majoring in? If they plan on being a career social worker or geography major they should take on much less debt than engineering or accounting majors.</li>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<ul>
<li>What are the college students grades like? Often a student’s grades and college involvement directly correlate into what kind of first job they will get.</li>
</ul>
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<b>Federal Loans</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Federal loans are a completely different story. The current interest rate is at 3.4% and it appears that rates will remain low in the future. Both Democrats and Republicans agree that rates should be kept low for students (I know completely shocking; they do agree on something). The only thing the parties do not agree on with this policy is how to pay for the loans. Even with the disagreement on payment it is unlikely that congress will allow the current low rates to expire. If for some reason they could not come to an agreement the rate would double to 6.8%. If the interest rates did double the refined college grad would pay these loans like he/she pays private loans.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The refined grad takes a leaf out of the Ric Edelman book <i>The Truth About Money</i> and like a mortgage in the book only pays the minimum each month. This may sound insane to most college grads but the refined college grad knows this can be a really good move. Here is why paying the minimum on a low interest loan and putting the rest that the grad saves into investments will increase wealth faster than paying off low interest debt as quickly as possible. The refined grad knows that keeping control of his/her money is the most important thing. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Here is an example of how the typical college graduate will pay off loans and invest.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4s5QYOA8YAl2xWrpHKMycIB5zQ5Vt2AD2mr-3yo_nj3Ull1xKIBJ91quPGjdSh2SXE4OI5aSbodNZiniMj4xpF1lSWGIG7CrUtzRhEqn3g74bM9QiFx2hZ7rx73pzlde3ldTi7FIrq3M/s1600/table+4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4s5QYOA8YAl2xWrpHKMycIB5zQ5Vt2AD2mr-3yo_nj3Ull1xKIBJ91quPGjdSh2SXE4OI5aSbodNZiniMj4xpF1lSWGIG7CrUtzRhEqn3g74bM9QiFx2hZ7rx73pzlde3ldTi7FIrq3M/s1600/table+4.png" /></a></div>
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Not too shabby. After just 5 years the college grad is debt free and at just over 10 years the grad has over $30,000.00 saved up.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Now let’s look at how the refined college grad handles low interest student debt.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXv83JsYYx4Q7_wrU0mMVcTXe4ua5kUiEe-yRITaJV3sP2h388rZwC55Nu-dqn3Sylxc0dmJ4b65OMDriCnlR7nSt0BfmqI-ZQxlAqSxgoL6Sbe8TEIYp-qI5GiaHLJ3iH0m5kOecO4r4/s1600/table+5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXv83JsYYx4Q7_wrU0mMVcTXe4ua5kUiEe-yRITaJV3sP2h388rZwC55Nu-dqn3Sylxc0dmJ4b65OMDriCnlR7nSt0BfmqI-ZQxlAqSxgoL6Sbe8TEIYp-qI5GiaHLJ3iH0m5kOecO4r4/s1600/table+5.png" /></a></div>
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Amazing by paying near the minimum each month and investing the rest the refined college grad comes out with more than $8,000 more than a regular college grad. This is the true power of the college grad keeping control of their money. Here are a few reasons why the college grad should allocate their money this way instead of paying off all debt first.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The college grad ends up with more cash at the end. As long as the gains/dividends remain higher than the loans interest rate the college grad is building wealth. Many will make the argument that with such high volatility in the markets there is no point in investing. This kind of attitude will never allow the college grad to ever build wealth. There will be more posts on investing in the future.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Here are some reasons to pay off a federal loan like this.</div>
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<ul>
<li>The college grad keeps control of their money. Life happens; having money saved up instead of dumping it into loan payments will allow the college grad to have flexibility if needed.</li>
</ul>
<o:p></o:p><br />
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<ul>
<li>Consistent long term credit history building. Having a good credit score is highly important for refined college grads. At some point they will want that house with the backyard.</li>
</ul>
<o:p></o:p><br />
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<ul>
<li>Learning about investing early. Having a grasp on investing is essential to building wealth.</li>
</ul>
<o:p></o:p><br />
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The refined college graduate knows how to handle federal student loans. They plan with spreadsheets and budgets and STICKS TO THEM.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The refined college graduate uses debt to their advantage and understands the difference between private and federal loans. The refined college graduate reads about current events on student loans. Doing a little bit of research and planning can help the college graduate achieve both short and long term financial goals. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Email <a href="mailto:therefinedcollegegrad@gmail.com">therefinedcollegegrad@gmail.com</a> with questions. </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03891162823810612701noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-698896844872882659.post-36260788215445508292012-06-06T15:50:00.001-07:002012-06-06T15:50:59.062-07:005 Refined Grad Credit Cards<br />
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<b><i><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Credit Card pitfalls…<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Credit Cards specifically credit
card debt is the number one way young college graduates get themselves into
trouble. They are suddenly thrust into the real world and need to buy lots of
things (new apartment furniture, food, pay utility bills and rent and of course
go to the bar). All these expenses add up and can soon swallow the grad in a
mountain of debt (not including student loans). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><i><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Do not be afraid Credit Cards can be great….<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The refined college graduate is
not afraid of credit cards and instead sees their usefulness in tracking
expenses, building good credit history and most important keeping their money
safe. The refined college graduate has a recent credit report and knows their
score. These can be obtained at <a href="http://freecreditreport.com/">freecreditreport.com</a>. The refined college
graduate pays off the entire balance of their card every month. The refined
college graduate does not have more than two cards (why waste time keeping
track of all of them). The refined college graduate knows they look really cool
at the bar in front of the ladies when they pay with plastic. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">There will be more posts on
credit, credit history and debt but for now here our five great cards we have
researched and tried. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 8.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></div>
<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 8.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">*note: keep in mind there are
other great cards besides these five. These are just five cards we like.</span></div>
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<b style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;"><a href="http://www304.americanexpress.com/getthecard/side-by-side/bluecashever-bluecashpref/28000?ccsgeep=28000&psCCSG=CCSG_Google_LE_Blue%20Cash" target="_blank">Blue Cash Preferred℠ Card from American Express</a></span></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Quick Rewards Glance</span></b></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Earn 3% cash
back at supermarkets.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Earn 2% cash
back at gas stations and department stores.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Earn 1% cash
back on all other eligible purchases</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12pt;">No Annual fee!
APR = 17.24%, 20.24% or 22.24%</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">*NOTE:
Not all merchants accept AMEX, but this looks like a good reward program.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">What makes this Credit
Card great?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The
refined college grad knows that one of their biggest expenses is groceries
(including brews, unless they live in PA). That is why this is a great card,
there are no revolving bonuses just 3% back on all groceries all the time. This
is a great card with great rewards and highly recommended for all refined
college graduates.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Ease of Acquirement <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">This
can be a tougher one to get. AMEX has tightened down since the 2008 financial
crisis and they seem to be especially strict with consumers that have little
credit history (young college grads). If the college grad is rejected the grad
calls AMEX and asks for reasoning and negotiates for another review to be done.</span></div>
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<b style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007URFTYI/plattr%3DCBGW0909/ref=amb_link_84606211_5?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-4&pf_rd_r=19HA8QCZRC4TDEW9DZW7&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=1369543022&pf_rd_i=1266766011" target="_blank">Amazon credit card </a></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Quick Rewards Glance</span></b></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Every 100 points = $1.00 towards your purchase.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Earn points on every purchase: 3 points for every $1 spent on
Amazon.com, 2 points for every eligible $1 spent at gas stations, restaurants,
and drugstores, and 1 point for every other $1 spent.³</span></li>
</ul>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">What makes this Credit Card great?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Who
doesn’t shop on Amazon? The refined college grad knows that this is one of the
best places to get anything and everything at low prices. The refined grad
usually does not go for cards that do not offer cash back but in this case
Amazon is about as good as cash. This is a great card especially if you are an
avid reader (you should be).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Ease of Acquirement <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The
retail cards are typically easier to get than the big bank cards. This is a
great one to have even if later you decide to get a big bank card.</span><b style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="font-size: 7pt; font-weight: normal;"> </span></span></b></div>
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<b style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://redcard.target.com/redcard/rc_main.jsp" target="_blank">Target RedCard </a> </span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Quick Rewards Glance</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">15% off all Target store purchases in the first 24 hour period
of card being open.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">5% off all purchases in store and online with FREE shipping (FOREVER).</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Donate 1% of purchases to your child’s school k-12 (hopefully not yet).</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">5% off all pharmacy purchases.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Online easy management and bill pay.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">What makes this Credit Card
great?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Like
Amazon, who doesn’t shop at Target? They have everything a refined college grad
could need for a new apartment. If timed right the college grad can get 15% off
all new furniture, kitchenware, linins and groceries (it can be a hefty bill
especially with the housewarming refreshments). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Ease of Acquirement <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">As
stated before retail cards are usually the easiest to get. This one must be
applied for in a Target store. The application is simple and straightforward. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><b><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">4.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-weight: normal;"> </span></span></b><!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;"><a href="https://www2.chase.com/credit-cards" target="_blank">ChaseFreedom® Visa - $100 Bonus Cash Back</a></span></span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
<b><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Quick Rewards Glance</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">After
15 month intro period no APR, after that a variable APR OF 11.99% - 22.99%</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">New
5% categories every 3 months like gas stations, grocery stores and restaurants.
It's free and easy to activate your bonus each quarter!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">1%
back on all other purchases.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">10%
back on certain online purchases through Chase</span></li>
</ul>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">What makes this Credit Card great?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">This is a classic
big bank card. It will be accepted anywhere and Chase has good customer
service. The rewards are good especially gas stations and grocery stores. The
online rewards can be great with this card. Overall this is a good starter’s
card. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Ease of Acquirement<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The big bank
cards are typically fairly easy to get. Like many other cards though they have
tightened down on who they give cards to. With a good credit report/score and
at least a few months of credit it should not be too hard to obtain this one.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://creditcards.citicards.com/usc/Dividend/Jan2012/100cb/External/default.htm?BTData=C021678746B617459544A42B1BEB2A6A399958490F9FCF1E9ECD5CCD9D9B65CD3E&BT_TRF=116592&app=UNSOL&sc=4V4ZJ2D1&m=XCK5MDX260W&langId=EN&siteId=CB&B=V&screenID=3000&uc=BEU&t=t&cmp=AFA~01~120201~CARDSACQ~ewizdom&link=Consumer_588516695&ProspectID=DCFFACFCD0EC48CEA56F9397EA49BAD3" target="_blank">Citi dividend platinum </a></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Quick Rewards Glance</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Earn 5% cash back at supermarkets, drugstores, gas stations
& utilities for the first 6 months, 1% thereafter.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Earn 1% on other purchases and earn at least 2% cash back in
popular, rotating categories, like department stores, jewelry, apparel,
restaurants, hotels and more.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Purchase APR: 0% Intro APR on purchases for 7 months; after that
the variable APR will be 12.99%-20.99%, based on your creditworthiness1</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">What makes this Credit Card great?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">This
is another big bank card. The rewards are not as good as the other four but are
above many others. The introduction rewards on this card are fantastic and can
really help out a recent college grad since all the categories above are major
expenses for a young college graduate. This is another great one to start with.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Ease of Acquirement <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">This
is a big bank card like the Chase card above. They are typically not all that
picky with who they give cards to. </span><span style="color: blue; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Now the refined grad needs some place to keep all these cards. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><iframe bordercolor="#000000" frameborder="0" height="150" hspace="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://ad.doubleclick.net/adi/N7433.148119.BLOGGEREN/B6628220.5208;sz=180x150;ord=[timestamp]?;lid=41000000000342669;pid=740407;usg=AFHzDLvTgGTs8-faWNkJjhoRsHzetr374w;adurl=http%253A%252F%252Fwww.kohls.com%252Fupgrade%252Fwebstore%252Fproduct_page.jsp%253FPRODUCT%25253C%25253Eprd_id%253D845524892702650%2526mr%253AtrackingCode%253DDECCA024-EEDD-DF11-AD70-001517B188A2%2526mr%253AreferralID%253DNA;pubid=548952;price=%2434.99;title=Royce+Leather+Double+I...;merc=Kohl%27s;imgsrc=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.kohls.com.edgesuite.net%2Fis%2Fimage%2Fkohls%2F740407%3Fwid%3D500%26hei%3D500%26op_sharpen%3D1;width=85;height=85" vspace="0" width="180"></iframe> <iframe bordercolor="#000000" frameborder="0" height="150" hspace="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://ad.doubleclick.net/adi/N7433.148119.BLOGGEREN/B6628220.5209;sz=180x150;ord=[timestamp]?;lid=41000000000342669;pid=738062;usg=AFHzDLsoxWJT4uGbEtAenShg5slfYVX4-Q;adurl=http%253A%252F%252Fwww.kohls.com%252Fupgrade%252Fwebstore%252Fproduct_page.jsp%253FPRODUCT%25253C%25253Eprd_id%253D845524892701008%2526mr%253AtrackingCode%253D5923A074-1BEC-DF11-AD70-001517B188A2%2526mr%253AreferralID%253DNA;pubid=548952;price=%2419.98;title=Royce+Leather+Mini+Id+...;merc=Kohl%27s;imgsrc=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.kohls.com.edgesuite.net%2Fis%2Fimage%2Fkohls%2F738062%3Fwid%3D500%26hei%3D500%26op_sharpen%3D1;width=85;height=85" vspace="0" width="180"></iframe> <iframe bordercolor="#000000" frameborder="0" height="150" hspace="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://ad.doubleclick.net/adi/N7433.148119.BLOGGEREN/B6628220.5210;sz=180x150;ord=[timestamp]?;lid=41000000000342669;pid=1067463;usg=AFHzDLstK4cSmU6NriWCkiwfdk_HLIGYeA;adurl=http%253A%252F%252Fwww.kohls.com%252Fupgrade%252Fwebstore%252Fproduct_page.jsp%253FPRODUCT%25253C%25253Eprd_id%253D845524892932285%2526mr%253AtrackingCode%253D2623DD6F-3287-E111-9D2A-001517B188A2%2526mr%253AreferralID%253DNA;pubid=548952;price=%2426.00;title=Buxton+Seal+Leather+Cr...;merc=Kohl%27s;imgsrc=http%3A%2F%2Fmedia.kohls.com.edgesuite.net%2Fis%2Fimage%2Fkohls%2F1067463%3Fwid%3D500%26hei%3D500%26op_sharpen%3D1;width=85;height=85" vspace="0" width="180"></iframe></span></div>
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<br /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03891162823810612701noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-698896844872882659.post-25389323334839199052012-06-06T04:04:00.001-07:002012-06-06T04:04:42.110-07:00Twitter<div><p>Knows that 'it isn't what you make, It's what you keep' that matters #frugal #refinedcollegegrad #spending #money -- Refined College Grad (@RefinedGrad)</p>
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03891162823810612701noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-698896844872882659.post-15683720475946800642012-06-05T18:19:00.000-07:002012-06-05T18:19:09.813-07:00Getting the New Website Geared Up<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2PHWiZ7-5UZWqcDhyphenhyphenairNY6bSgYWbJNfhULRHHRXzRQYpu-CR1QcZxtlWCyERxLNWbeqBU29OAOxXeyassX6nfIOmAd-l-zvCFFgXH4YzEzDDXYVAgoQGxlXZLNs1gcQ70ukP3Ilf92A/s1600/Mergetagline.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2PHWiZ7-5UZWqcDhyphenhyphenairNY6bSgYWbJNfhULRHHRXzRQYpu-CR1QcZxtlWCyERxLNWbeqBU29OAOxXeyassX6nfIOmAd-l-zvCFFgXH4YzEzDDXYVAgoQGxlXZLNs1gcQ70ukP3Ilf92A/s640/Mergetagline.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The new website will be organized into different advice sections for easy navigation. New Post on good credit cards and credit card tips for young people coming soon.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03891162823810612701noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-698896844872882659.post-86941410061946644772012-06-04T19:05:00.000-07:002012-06-04T19:05:20.841-07:00New Website in the worksThe Refined College Graduate website is now being created...Stay tuned for updates.....Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03891162823810612701noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-698896844872882659.post-50772685196138335592012-06-04T17:22:00.001-07:002012-06-04T17:22:09.288-07:00Eating right...(so you can drink more)It is highly important for the refined college graduate to eat right. Eating healthy foods has many benefits.<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li>Looking good </li>
<li>Feeling good </li>
<li>Being able to drink more beer without thinking about the calories </li>
<li>Everyone at work commenting on how healthy you are </li>
</ol>
<div>
Here is a picture of easy to make <a href="https://twitter.com/RefinedGrad/status/209799894498680832/photo/1" target="_blank">veggie pizza </a></div>
<div>
<ol>
<li>Pita bread </li>
<li>Pizza sauce </li>
<li>Sauteed Veggies </li>
<li>Little bit of Cheese </li>
</ol>
<div>
Know your<a href="http://www.fastcodesign.com/1669948/infographic-a-cheat-sheet-for-seeing-what-veggies-and-fruits-are-in-season" target="_blank"> fruit and veggie seasons</a>...From Fast Company </div>
</div>
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<div>
With so much healthy eating the refined college grad will need more space to store drinks. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAFRxcXp0ENeg5DsCkHsI6yGkJ5SwqyI39ZO9g2ABEtrBhyKUTdtoWYj69JsiScFo9elIR2D4WItfR0NZ2JTKpisGppieYRFE9bSE4fMiMqon9dxDV3tgRLBgJPvIdVoZZDKc-dwlRhT4/s1600/ATT00009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAFRxcXp0ENeg5DsCkHsI6yGkJ5SwqyI39ZO9g2ABEtrBhyKUTdtoWYj69JsiScFo9elIR2D4WItfR0NZ2JTKpisGppieYRFE9bSE4fMiMqon9dxDV3tgRLBgJPvIdVoZZDKc-dwlRhT4/s320/ATT00009.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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More healthy tips to come...</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03891162823810612701noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-698896844872882659.post-72655341807038556002012-06-04T16:19:00.000-07:002012-06-04T16:19:47.733-07:00Finding Employment after CollegeThe refined college graduate knows the steps it takes to find employment after college. Here are a few tips for landing a sweet job after the nonstop parties stop.<br />
<ul>
<li>Start early! The refined graduate knows that the hiring process at most companies is slow. Starting the job search in the fall of senior year is the best bet. Below is a list to get the soon to be grad started right.</li>
<ul>
<li>Make a Microsoft Excel (<a href="http://gan.doubleclick.net/gan_click?lid=41000000026530730&pid=49736&adurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abt.com%2Fproduct%2F49736%2FMicrosoft-GZA-00136.html&usg=AFHzDLsmdZRvwTKjoAGvILTCWdQiQQQ7eQ&pubid=548952" rel="nofollow">Microsoft Office 2011</a>) list. Include: company, POC, date last contacted, phone, email, location and job title applied for. </li>
<li>Spend an hour a day applying, following up with potential employers and researching. This will keep you in a good grove.</li>
<li>USE FAMILY NETWORKS! Not enough college grads use their family's to help them find jobs. This can be a great way to get into a great position.</li>
</ul>
<li>Use the internet and social media the right way. </li>
<ul>
<li>the refined grad has a linkedin account. This is a must. <a href="http://www.linkedin.com/" target="_blank">Linkedin</a> </li>
<li>Take down all the party posts, pictures and tweets (the grads that still have those up are either dumb or have low self esteem). </li>
<li>The refined grad has a signature for email. </li>
</ul>
<li>Be Flexible and open. Many college grads think that their first job will be their last and hold out for that "perfect offer". The refined college grad knows that a job is what you make of it. The refined college graduate is also not afraid to look for jobs outside their major. </li>
<li>Have a great looking resume and kill the interview. Let's face it most college grads really have little to no work experience. Employers know this. The refined college grad knows what they lack in experience they can make up for in style and intelligence.</li>
<ul>
<li>Have a great looking resume. The college graduate has about 30 seconds at most to grab the recruiters attention. </li>
<ul>
<li>The refined college grad has their name front and center with the biggest accomplishments near the top. </li>
<li>There is clear formatting and organization. </li>
<li>A resume template with more details will be provided in a later post. </li>
</ul>
<li>Kill the interview.</li>
<ul>
<li>For Men :Have a tailored black, navy or grey suit with a pressed white shirt and a sensible tie ready to go (think Mad Men just without all the sex, booze and smoking).</li>
<li>For Women: Have a business suit or formal business wear with simple jewelry. DO NOT WEAR anything revealing or short (this isn't a frat party). </li>
<li>Bring copies of your resume (printed on nice paper). </li>
<li>Bring a pen, a professional binder and gum. </li>
<li>Make sure to leave the phone in the car. </li>
<li>Visit the business the day before to see how long it takes to get there. </li>
<li>Plan to Arrive 30 min early (it is okay to sit in the car for a few). </li>
<li>Practice interviewing with friends and family. </li>
<li>There will be a post later with more tips and tricks. </li>
</ul>
</ul>
<li>Okay most college graduates wait until after they have graduated to start job hunting. There just is not time to look for employment when there are only a few college keg parties left. </li>
<ul>
<li>DO NOT PANIC! Way too many grads get into a panic mode and then get depressed and frustrated when they don't find a job right away. </li>
<li>Make sure you have an up-to-date Linkedin and resume. </li>
<li>Apply to a local <a href="http://www.yellowpages.com/washington-dc/employment-agencies?from=SEMPS_GGL_Search_acct%3DNational_hc%3D8009008_adgroup%3Dgs_empag_kwd%3Djob+agencies#utm_campaign=SEMPS_GGL_Search_acct%3DNational_hc%3D8009008_adgroup%3Dgs_empag_kwd%3Djob+agencies&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=job+agencies" target="_blank">Job Agency</a>. Here is a quick yellow pages search in the D.C. area. </li>
<ul>
<li>They will take a hefty cut of pay but it is great experience and they find the job for the grad. </li>
</ul>
<li>If all else fails try starting a business. There is no better time than when you are young and energetic. </li>
<ul>
<li>More posts to follow on entrepreneurship.</li>
</ul>
</ul>
</ul>
This has been a quick overview for grads or soon to be grads on how to start the job search. There will be more posts after this. <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<ul>
</ul>
</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03891162823810612701noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-698896844872882659.post-21899210370429127602012-06-03T16:35:00.002-07:002012-06-03T16:35:56.365-07:00You TubeGreat video on investing myths...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/7fBJbXaGjQ0?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03891162823810612701noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-698896844872882659.post-13636185909456386812012-06-03T15:11:00.000-07:002012-06-03T15:34:09.302-07:00New Lens!<a href="http://www.squidoo.com/the-refined-college-graduate" target="_blank">New Lens!</a> Everything goes to charity!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://digg.com/news/business/the_refined_college_graduate" target="_blank">New Digg!</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03891162823810612701noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-698896844872882659.post-983403841236236612012-06-03T13:11:00.001-07:002012-06-03T13:11:17.760-07:00Must Read BooksThe refined college graduate knows that learning does not stop after college and reads at least one book a month.<br />
<br />
This is a list of good books for the refined college graduate.<br />
<ol>
<li>This book is a great starter that covers just about every topic in personal finance. It is a must read for all refined college graduates who did not major in business, accounting or economics. This is the best book to start with because it makes finance easy to understand. After reading this book you will be a finance wiz. </li>
<iframe align="center" frameborder="20" marginheight="5" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=thereficollgr-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=0062006487&ref=tf_til&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;" wraptext=""></iframe>
<li>This is a great read for all the entrepreneurial minded refined college graduates. This book will completely change the way the college graduate thinks about money. MJ DeMarco is brutally honest and motivates readers to start their own businesses. </li>
<iframe align="center" frameborder="20" marginheight="5" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=thereficollgr-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=0984358102&ref=tf_til&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe>
<li>A throwback classic. From one of the best investors ever, the former Fidelity fund manager Peter Lynch. Some of the information is a little dated but Peter has a no nonsense method of finding stocks. </li>
<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=thereficollgr-20&o=1&p=8&l=as1&asins=0671891634&ref=tf_til&fc1=000000&IS2=1&lt1=_blank&m=amazon&lc1=0000FF&bc1=000000&bg1=FFFFFF&f=ifr" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe></ol>
<div>
More books to follow but these are three great starters. </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03891162823810612701noreply@blogger.com0