how far can we go? , page-24

Sam,

Keep in mind, that with a total portfolio size of $2500, you are unlikely to make much money, your earnings will be eaten into by brokerage with $500 trades.

What you may earn during this time in your investing career is experience. You buy experience with losses :). So not a bad thing to only have small amounts on market initially, the experience costs less.

If you are a student with limited funds the fastest way to make more money -- get a job. Work part-time during semester and full-time during breaks. You will make more money per hour of time than per hour of time used in stock research.

In thinking about your future financial plans, investments should definitely be on the list. However don't forget that early on your most important income source in the medium term is your ability to hold down a decent full-time job (and ability to "invest"/study in getting a better job).

Best of luck. Have fun - both in financial matters and everything else!