<prompt> Human: Im halfway through my first year in college. Ive really no need to spend money so far and dont see any reason to spend large amounts of money over the next few years in college either. I work in the summer and made about 3000 that I really barely ever touch for spending. For my graduation money I received about 2500, so the total Im sitting on right now is 5500. My question is what a college kid should do with my money over the next 4 years? Maybe some sort of short term investment plan that will increase that amount over the next few years? Im not really sure of the options I have.  <response>: Your best bet is probably to keep it in a savings account for an emergency fund or to pay down some of your high interest loans early, if you have any.Please read the information found in the FAQ particularly I Have X ... What Do I Do With It?! and the Long-Term Investing Start-Up Kit You may find Your IRA and You: Basic Information worth a read as well. 