some banks have accounts for students and for people who don't require a lot of check writing. their fees are minimal if at all. you can shop around online for these thrifty accounts.
as for saving money, impulse purchasing is where so much spending is done. like at the checkout counter there's all kinds of stuff they'll lure you to purchase including bottled drinks or water. it's amazing how much can be spent/wasted with these kind of purchases.
coupons can help you save money on things you purchase for daily need items, shampoo, etc. any money you save from the coupon you can dunk into a can or sumthin' in your room. those savings will add up quickly if you stick to this. (if you hadn't used the coupon you would have spent the money you chuck in the can anway). save spare change too.
lots of people are looking for a babysitter and you could study after getting the kiddies to bed plus make money doing it! what an incentive to study. ha.
good for you for trying to stretch your dollar. hope this helps.