College Living Transition: What To Expect

When you leave home and embark on your new college adventure there are quite a few things that are new. You may find yourself living in a dorm on campus or in a small apartment off campus. Regardless of the type of living arrangement you have, you are now sensing a dose of adulthood and freedom. When you lived at home, under your parents ' roof, you had to abide by their rules. You likely did not have to pay any bills and you were able to focus solely on your education. While away at college a bit more adult responsibilities will be presented in your life.

Some college students are fortunate enough to have parents still paying for their bills and meals. Other college students must procure jobs and earn a meager wage in order to enjoy off campus activities and dining. Those who fall into that group often are also responsible for some bills while away at school as well. If you took your car to college with you then you will need to earn enough money to keep gas in your vehicle and maintain it properly. You will also need car insurance. You likely have a cell phone and are responsible for your monthly bill as well. You can expect your monthly bills to increase a bit while you are away and you can expect to find yourself balancing work and school a bit more than you may have while in high school. You may have only previously worked 12 or 16 hours a week but now that you are away you may need a 20-30 hour a week part time job that you can balance around your class schedule. Speaking of balancing, you also will need to incorporate time to study and keep your grades up as well. You are at college to earn a degree so that you can eventually leave your part-time job and enter greener employment pastures.

Some big hurdles you will have to face in your college living experience is learning how to budget and save money. To maximize your savings learn how to save on your monthly expenses, for instance, when setting up your utilities make sure to search for a Connecticut electricity suppliers with a affordable rate, etc. You can also learn how to price shop in all categories of your life. Look for sales when you buy essentials, shop around for better cell phone deals and consider making budget cuts for unnecessary monthly expenses so that you don't feel as though you have to work more than necessary while obtaining your education.

College Living Survival Guide

Once you have arrived on campus make sure you go over a check list of things that will help make your time here easier. Have enough money saved to cover your expenses for the first semester. You had the entire summer to prepare for this. If possible, pay for your cell phone and car insurance in advance so that you are not stressed over monthly bills that may come. Purchase gift cards throughout the summer months. These can be for gas, groceries or even visa or MasterCard gift cards in certain denominations. These can be used to get you by throughout your first semester away. Use them for groceries, fuel and any other essentials you may have. While you work throughout your first semester away, use the earnings to put back towards more gift cards. This is a great way to plan in advance without stressing out. Do not just focus on work and school. You are away to learn how to become an adult but you need to focus on a healthy work and life balance. Make time for friends and make sure you connect with family while you are away.