For many college students, lack of money is an issue. At UD, some students have found ways to overcome that hurdle by donating a piece of themselves: their plasma.

One reason plasma donation sparks such an interest in students is the immediate financial benefits. Directly after donating, students receive varying amounts of money that will help them survive financially, be it for food, drink, books or entertainment.

Sophomore Zach Frey underwent his first time donating plasma last week at the CSL Plasma Service in Dayton. Directly after he donated he was given a $30 compensation. Donors are even rewarded with a higher compensation rate according to how often they return to donate plasma.

"I get $30 the first four times and $50 for the fifth time," Frey said.

Located 15 minutes from UD's campus, the close location helps serve as a means to draw in students. But, although it is close to campus, it's not something students can or should do every day.

According to CSL Plasma Service, the current FDA regulations restrict individuals to one donation in a two-day period, and allow only two donations every seven days. Plasma is replaced rapidly which permits multiple donations in one week. For Frey, donating twice a week seems like a great prospect for his pocket book.

But it not only benefits monetarily. Plasma donators help those with hemophilia, burns, shock, infection trauma and breathing disorders. Also, it can serve in life saving therapies.

But before heading to the CSL Plasma Service, it's important to know that not everyone can donate plasma. Donors must weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be in good health. In addition, CSL Plasma Service requires that each individual bring their identification card, social security card and also proof of residency, such as a piece of mail sent to the donor's current address.

For Frey, the first time was also a bit time consuming. He had to undergo a rigorous examination including a personal interview and a physical. In total, the whole process was over four hours long.

CSL Plasma Service said the process is relatively risk free for healthy individuals since the body quickly produces new plasma to replace the donated plasma. They do suggest that donors eat a healthy meal and stay well hydrated before and after the donation process.

Anyone interested in donating plasma can contact the CSL Plasma Service at 937-224-1973.