Going to school in Washington, DC lends itself to have the opportunity to obtain an education that often extends beyond the classroom. Walks to class involve passing by prestigious government buildings and officials, field trips include chances to visit world renown museums, internship possibilities range from working on The Hill to prestigious lobbying and business firms, and professors have endless connections and experience.

For those of us who have the privilege to attend school in one of the most powerful cities in the world, we know that this privilege comes at a price-- an expensive one. Tuition is not the only major expense when it comes to living in DC. From Uber and metro fees, overpriced restaurants, draw-dropping real estate prices, and expensive nights out, it won't be long before your college allowance begins to dwindle. Spend wisely this semester, and try to check out these affordable yet fun options this year.

1. Street Art

Cost: FREE

Unleash your artsy side and explore both famous and secret DC murals. Street art can turn a neighborhood or wall from drag to fab, and a trip to a few walls makes for an awesome "photo shoot". Check out Muralsdcproject.com or follow @Murals_DC for updates on locations of murals and information on the street art scene and culture of DC.

Location: Metro Branch Trail near Rhode Island Ave Metro Station.

The Mama Ayesha Restaurant Presidential Mural in Adams Morgan

2. Let Them Eat Cake

Cost: Maximum $5

Who says you can't eat sweets for a meal? Substitute that $25 dinner for a dessert feast. When it comes to cupcakes and sweets, this city has a variety of options that will leave you satisfied without breaking the bank. For an indulgent and tasty dessert meal check out Baked and Wired, The Cakeroom, Rise Bakery (Specialized Gluten Free pastries/bread) , Captain Cookie and The Milkman, and Dolcezza.

3. Explore Underground Dupont

Price: Varies (Not expected to be pricey)

Dupont Underground is a new, ongoing project in which the creators turned an old underground trolley station into a venue for art and design exhibitions, public arts performances, retail, dining, and more. Because this project is brand new, many people in DC have no idea this creative and innovative space exists. Although the entire 75,000 sq. ft of the underground is not open, some parts are ready for the public to use. Like Dupont Underground on Facebook for more information on upcoming events.

Fret no more, the famous Beach exhibit at The National Building Museum is not gone for long. Soon, all 650,000+ balls will make its way to Dupont Underground.

4. Concert at U Street Music Hall

Price:Typically $10-$20

With prices as low as $10 you can go to an intimate and groovy concert at U Street Music Hall, located in one of the more artistic and gentrified neighborhoods of DC. This DJ owned and operated dance club has hosted rising artists like Marian Hill, Klingande,Years & Years, ODESZA, Kehlani, and more! Make sure you also grab the largest slice of pizza you will ever see next door at Jumbo Slice Pizza.

5. Open Mic Night at Busboys and Poets

Cost: $5

With 6 different locations throughout the DMV are, Busboys and Poets offers a cozy,eclectic, and inviting ambiance. While most guests come for their rich comfort food, Busboys and Poets hosts poetry and open nights Monday- Wednesday at all their locations. Enjoy a night of moving, unique, and inspirational messages all for $5.

6. DC Free Store at The Peace House

Price: Free

Want to shop for free? Make sure you find out more about DC Free Store, an exchange store hosted by The Peace House where one can get furniture, clothes, books, and more all for the price of $0. What's the catch? You must agree to a mutual exchange, therefore you're encouraged to bring items so that you can take other items, and this only occurs about once a month. However there are "No Trade Saturdays" where you can take whatever you wish, without giving anything. Keep an eye out on facebook for these events!

7. Unleash Your Inner Latin at El Centro

Price: Varies (Free, $2, $5, $15)

Sangria Sundays, Nacho Mondays, Taco Tuesdays, Margarita Wednesdays, Latin Thursdays, and International Nights Friday and Saturday, EL Centro D.F. has something to offer every night with great prices and entertainment for all. El Centro has been recognized by the Food Network, Zagat, DCist, and many more food blogs. We may be up north, but a night out in El Centro will have you feeling like you're next to Mexico.

($2 Tacos on Taco Tuesdays)

8. Ride Around the City with Capital Bikeshare

Price: $8 for one day

Ditch Uber for a day or night and use Captial Bikeshare to get around the city. There are stations located all around the city, so there is no excuse not to try this out at least once. This reliable and amusing source of transportation is amazing because it allows you to go where you please and see more along the way. More importantly, you're getting a workout while you enjoy yourself, and you'll quickly realize that the activity of riding is more important than the destination. Round up a group of friends and explore different neighborhoods.

9. Eat in Style at Vapiano

Cost: $10-$15

Vapiano is an affordable yet chic restaurant with two locations in The District. One can enjoy a good quality, customized, and reasonably priced dish. From pasta, pizza, salad, and dessert, all ingredients used are fresh, and you can watch your food be prepared right in front of you. Vapiano has a bar and a laid back, lounge ambiance with beautiful, clean decor. According to yelp, some call this a "glorified cafeteria" and "a taste of Italy with a quick American feel".

10. Go Around Europe in One Day

Price: Free

In May, about 30 embassies open their doors as part of the EU Open House Event. At the end of the day you can say you ate tapas in Spain, watched a folk dance performance in Romania, got your face painted in France, and hung out with diplomats in Cyprus. This free event is not one to be missed!

11. The Monuments, Mall, and Museums never fail

Price: Free

At the end of the day let the Washington Monument be your north star, and take some time to visit the monuments on The Mall at night to just soak up the fact that you live in one of the best cities in the world. Take some time after class to study at The National Portrait Gallery or learn something new at The National Museum of Natural History. No matter how cliché they may sound, late night monument walks, free museum visits, and picnics with your friends on the Mall are things you just have to do before you graduate.

Study in the terrace at The National Portrait Gallery