The college years are a time of rapid, frequent change filled with exciting new adventures and, in many cases, a steep learning curve. Many of those lessons have nothing to do with the classroom and more to do with learning how to navigate the new world around you. If you are moving away from home for the first time, it can seem a bit daunting, but learning how to live on your own is an important part of becoming an independent young adult.
Roommates 101
Chances are, when you move away from home for the first time, you’re going to share your space with others. Whether you are moving away for college or just moving into a place that doesn’t belong to your parents, having a roommate (or two) usually goes with the territory.
Start out on the right foot by establishing some ground rules that will make sharing your space easier. From how to handle privacy and overnight guests to how to split refrigerator space and chores, discussing real-world situations before they arise is a great way to keep the peace with your roommates.
Making Ends Meet
It can be overwhelming to suddenly take on the financial responsibility that accompanies moving away from home. Learning how to create and stick to a budget is a skill that will serve you well for the rest of your life.
If you are sharing space with a roommate, you’re also sharing costs, so decide up front how costs will be divided, who will be responsible for collecting the money and making the payment, and whose name things like utilities, internet service, and cable television service will be in.
Keep in mind that in addition to covering all these basic costs, you’ll need to have enough for groceries, entertainment, and any other financial obligations, such as a car payment and car insurance. Then make a practice of putting aside money for savings or an emergency fund so you’ll have cash on hand if you need it unexpectedly.
Dining and Dollars
Food is essential, but it also can become a big expense — particularly if you develop a habit of eating out. Before you move away from home, it’s wise to take some time to learn your way around the grocery store as well as the kitchen.
Eating out is an easy way to blow your budget, so learn how to cook a few basics like pasta, chicken, and vegetables. This can save you the cost of buying frozen dinners or ordering takeout, and it’s going to be much healthier for you, too.
Decorating Like a Grown-up
Your first home away from home doesn’t have to look like you furnished it from a yard sale. If you and your roommates are all moving into your first apartment, student rental packages that provide all the necessities can make for a smooth transition. Splitting the cost of furniture rental makes it manageable for your budget, and it gives you the freedom and flexibility to stay on trend as your decorating needs change.
Moving away for college is an adventure that should stretch you to grow but not stress you out. Make things easier, and let CORT Furniture Rental help you create a space that you are proud to call home.
