BY CASEY MCKENNA
Lions’ Pride Staff Writer

Students and small town residents are two groups who have been feeling the effects of the American economy.

Saint Leo University employees and nearby Dade City business owners have become more aware of profit, expenses, and the customers who have the ability to make or break their businesses. Consumers in these areas have become more careful in terms of where their money is going and what it is going towards.

College is an expensive, but worthwhile, investment to anyone who is considering the pursuit of an associates, bachelors, or graduate degree.

However, despite the economy, enrollment at Saint Leo has increased.

“Enrollment has increased. We have the best retention rate in terms of freshman,” said Gary Bracken, vice president of enrollment. “We have more freshmen enrolled for next year.”

Bracken said Saint Leo is in pretty good shape.

“We are ready to help those families who need the help. The value of Saint Leo University is appreciated because we are at the lower spectrum financially in terms of private universities,” said Bracken.

Although Saint Leo University’s Admissions department is ready and willing to help students through the difficult financial times, students are still taking many precautions when it comes to dispensing money. Some have noticed there has been a shift in their social lives.

“There is a decrease in activities off campus. People are partying less and limiting their spending. They are focusing on getting jobs,” said junior Sharonise Grace. “People don’t want to spend money where it isn’t necessary.”

This may be a concern to business owners in nearby Dade City. Students aren’t spending as much money at cafés, restaurants, and clothing stores. With Dade City being a small part of Pasco County, the business of college students from Saint Leo University has always been helpful.

Peggy Hunnicutt, the proprietor of Kumquat Kuriosities & Antiques, which is located on seventh street in Dade City said business is “definitely slower, even though I do have regulars that keep me going.”

“A lot more people are looking than buying. Hopefully it will get better and people will start feeling more comfortable shopping and spending money again,” said Hunnicutt, who has owned Kumquat Kuriosities and Antiques for a little over a year and a half.

When asked if she was worried about the state of the American economy affecting her business in the year ahead she said, “Of course, I think everybody is. It’s always on my mind.”

Rosie’s Boutique & Apparel, which is a short walk away from Kumquat Kurisosities and Antiques, has actually seen some progress in business. Edgar Valdez who runs the boutique with his parents said that “[business] has actually picked up for us over the past year.” Rosie’s Boutique & Apparel has been a part of the Dade City community for a year and a half. He says that “Dade City is a good area for business.” Although business has improved for Valdez and his family, he does note that people have been less likely to buy pricier items.

“They [customers] purchase things, but they lean towards the cheaper gowns. We have something for everyone here. If college students come in, we can certainly offer a discount. We sell wedding, quinceañera, prom, and formal wear gowns here.”

With business slowing down for some and picking up for others, students can’t help but wonder if anyone is willing to hire right now.

“There are not many people willing to hire college students for summer jobs,” said junior Shayne Tavares.

Tavares has been searching for a summer job to provide some income and has not had any luck so far.

With this being the case, volunteering and interning are both options that students should consider for the time being. Both options provide students with experience in fields of interest, and there is always a possibility they will discover a new interest. Many business owners would probably appreciate the help as well.

In terms of saving money, students should clip out coupons and look for deals online before grocery shopping or purchasing needed items for school. The internet is one useful tool for consumers, but people should take notice of the coupon booklets placed at the entrances of convenience and grocery stores. They are often ignored but can save customers money when every penny counts.