Q: By this point in your life, you probably have an idea of which parent is more likely to give you a few bucks. On the other hand, if you need a substantial amount of money, approach both of them together. Let them talk it over before you even make your case. You also might ask both parents together if they tend to be more indulgent as a couple than as individuals. Don't: mention this to your friends, especially if they know your parents.Do: talk to your siblings if your parents end up giving you money. If you keep it secret and they find out, it could cause resentment. As much as you might like to think that your budget is no longer your parents' business, asking them for money makes it their business. They probably won't expect you to present them with a printed out spreadsheet of your projected and actual monthly expenses. However, giving them a rough estimate will go a long way in demonstrating that you have a mature relationship with money. Allowing your parents to see a basic breakdown of where your money goes may help them feel more confident in giving you money (as long as your expenditures aren't frivolous in their eyes). Include a list of activities you participate in to earn money, whether it be a job, a freelance writing gig, classes to further your education, etc. Your parents will want to see that you're making an effort, not just "mooching." Don't: lecture your parents about how to budget their money.Do: make sure they can afford what you're asking for without affecting their safety net. Show them how you are doing well in school. To make it even more enticing, show them how you even plan to improve. This makes your financial situation seem like a temporary problem, not permanent. It also makes you seem grateful for the support they have already shown you in your academic or early work career. Your parents may not deem it necessary for you to pay them back. They may instead see this as an investment on their part. However, telling them you are prepared to work hard to pay them back will further demonstrate your financial maturity. On the other hand, actually agreeing to pay them back for money will teach you valuable lessons in money management. You and your parents can negotiate the repayment plan as necessary: they may want the money sooner; they may want to charge interest, etc. Be willing to work with them to set up a repayment plan you're all comfortable with.
A: Consider whom you will ask. Prepare to talk about your budget and spending. Demonstrate your interest in school or work. Ask for a loan.

Q: The worst mistake you can make is to walk into a comedy set completely cold. This sets you up for nervously laughing at your own jokes! Even the best comedians need to spend some time preparing what they are going to say. Create a set list for yourself. Make a list of each joke you will tell. Think about transitions. How does one joke flow into the next? Is there some kind of logical progression? Keep in mind what kind of people you expect to see in the audience. Certain demographics will be more or less likely to enjoy certain types of jokes. An open mic at a church, for example, may not be the best place to try out very dirty material. Whether you're the type of comic who follows a script or one who tends to free-style, rehearsal will always make your set better. Plus, it is the most effective way to stop yourself from laughing at your own jokes. Set aside time to run through your entire set 2-3 times before you take the stage. The more times you rehearse your jokes, the more normalized they become, and the less likely you are to laugh. Be sure to time yourself. This way you'll ensure that you have the right amount of material, and you can move through your set without concerning yourself with time. before taking the stage. Taking the stage cold sets you up for nervous laughter. Before you take the stage, find a way to warm yourself up, and release any "silly energy." Put on your favorite song and dance around making funny noises and goofy faces in the mirror. Laugh at yourself. Move your body, use your voice, and wiggle the muscles in your face. All of these actions dispel nervous energy and prepare you to tell jokes on stage effectively, without bursting into laughter. If you do a good job of making the people around you laugh, you won't need to laugh to fill the silence. Prevent yourself from laughing at your own jokes by making other people laugh. Use vocal variation. Don't fall into a monotone delivery. Signal the punchline. Pause for a moment to let the audience know it's coming. Use a call-back. Reference something funny you said near the beginning of your set near the end. Audiences love this. If you really want to strengthen your comedy and prevent yourself from laughing at your own jokes, the only true remedy is spending as much time as you can telling jokes on stage. You can't perform once a month (or less) and expect to improve at your craft. Try to make it out 1-3 times per week. Begin by seeking out comedy open mics. You can find these advertised at coffee shops or bars, or in a local entertainment paper. Open mics are where you can practice, connect with other comics, and gain exposure. If you do well at open mics, you will be invited to perform at more regular gigs.
A:
Be prepared. Rehearse jokes. Warm up Sharpen your comedy skills. Perform regularly.