There is no food in the cupboard, the last pair of jeans in the closet has a tear and the car won't start. It's possible to fix all of these things without breaking the bank.
Zion's Bank is hosting its second season of an online reality show called 'Cheapster.' This show takes college students from Utah and Idaho and puts them against financially challenging situations. The student who overcomes the challenges using the least amount of money wins $10,000 for personal use, $10,000 for their school, and the title 'The Ultimate Cheapster.'
Zion's Bank is taking video submissions for students to compete through Sept. 14 on their reality show website cheapstertv.com, so those interested should act fast. The series will run from October to November.
Elizabeth Neff, public relations representative for Zion's Bank, recommended that students have stage presence, personality, be well spoken and be a unique individual to stand out in their video submissions.
Neff also expressed how she was specifically excited for the BYU students that will participate this season. She said they have a special enthusiasm that is unique to the university.
While the spokesperson was enthusiastic about the season, she also expressed the underlying reason for the program.
''Cheapster' was a way to connect with millenials and share money management tips,” Neff said.
The series' main goal is to teach all groups of people about smart money management.
Lance Halladay, a former 'Cheapster' contestant and BYU student, said he thought living cheaply came naturally to him, so he might as well compete.
'If you're chosen as a contestant for 'Cheapster' season 2, be prepared for anything that could be thrown at you,' Halladay said. 'Understand good prices on items and know when something is a good value. It is also important to be able to make good decisions quickly and be able to explain why you made that decision.'
Past contestant Joshua Pacheco, a BYU student from Houston studying communications, gave more advice on how a contestant's personality can stand out on the show.
'Be yourself, become one with the camera, say what you would want to hear if you were watching the show,' Pacheco said.
Claire Davis, along with other students throughout the Utah and Idaho collegiate atmosphere, said she's getting excited at the prospect of their cheap living being rewarded.
'First, it would be the most incredible and best answer to prayers ever. We would be so blessed with that amount of money for free,' Davis said.
Those interested in entering or watching in the competition can get further details at cheapstertv.com or facebook.com/CheapsterTV.