Gas prices making it easier on pocketbooks

For the first time since January of last year, the statewide average of gas prices have gone under $2 according to AAA Michigan. Many students say they are enjoying the lower prices.

“I would have to say that I am happy from the viewpoint of a college student who owns a car and would like to save some money,” said Nathan Dickinson, Gaines senior. “It is nice to see gas at $2 so it doesn’t cost an arm and a leg to fill up my gas tank.”

Some students are preparing for graduation and the move to their new job.

“I love that they have gone done because I’m planning a big trip and I have to take the trip anyway, so it makes it more economical,” said Christy Braford, Olivet senior. “The cost of moving is high enough anyway, so to be able to cut costs with gas is awesome.”

Other students are a little hesitant about the lowering of gas prices.

“Well, I think it’s a nice break from what we’ve had, but I’m curious as to how long it will last,” said Eric Andreychuk, Vassar senior. “I know OPEC is meeting soon and we’ll see how much longer they stay down.”

Students are even considering the effect it will have on our economic issues our country and state are currently facing.

“It is also a good thing from a financial viewpoint because people are realizing that gas shouldn’t be at $120/barrel, but where it has been for years at $50/barrel,” Dickinson said.

Many students made changes in order to survive with the higher gas prices.

“I only drove to work and back,” said Andreychuk. “I used the ICTC for a while to get to campus and asked friends to pick me up as much as possible.”

Some weren’t affected by the higher prices as much, but had friends who were.

“I didn’t really need to because I am supported by my family, but I know it affected a lot of my friends who had had to cut back on trips, movies and expenditures that are frivolous,” Dickinson said.

With the lower prices again, students are getting back into their old ways.

“I’ve found that I drive a lot more liberally now,” said Andreychuk. “I drive to campus, I offer to drive more and have been taking more trips to Lansing, Midland, home, etc.”