The beginning of a new school year often brings "firsts." Your first time living away from home, your first year of college, or, for some of us, your first time living in an apartment. Jumping from dorm life to apartment life can really be different; suddenly you become responsible for paying rent, bills, cooking, and more. Here are 10 thoughts college students have when moving into their first apartment.
1. "Wow, I have so much more space!"
While your apartment still may be considered "small," it's definitely a lot bigger than your box-sized dorm room. Bonus: you have your own kitchen now!
2. "Wait-do I even know how to cook?"
One of the main pluses of living off campus is being able to get out of the expensive meal plans. However, you have to fend for yourself and make your own meals, which can be tricky.
3. "I don't really need the lights or A.C. on, do I?"
Another downside of living off campus is having to pay for utilities and rent. Since we are all broke college kids, this can lead to us trying not to turn on lights or use water unless absolutely necessary in order to save money.
4. "Ugh, I forgot (x)!"
Having your own kitchen, bathroom, and a lot more space than your old dorm room means that you need a lot more supplies. You can't remember everything and will likely have to battle the dorm-shopping traffic at the store to get what you need.
5. "I. Hate. Doing. Dishes."
With cooking comes the fun of having dishes. Even just making spaghetti requires cleaning a pot. Dishes are annoying to clean and a pain, which is why they may pile up in your sink.
6. "Maybe I should just live off a jar of pickles this week."
There are seemingly endless expenses when living in an apartment. You may be tempted to push the limits to see how little you can live off to save money.
7. "Can the floor above me please stop stomping?"
The walls in apartments are as thin as they were in dorms. You hear everything, whether it's someone stomping, slamming doors, or even crying.
8. "I'm so mature now."
Having your own space is pretty cool and makes you feel like a grown up. You're cooking, paying bills, and have your own mini home!
9. "What is even happening on campus?"
There is definitely a slight disconnect between yourself and campus when you move off. You still have classes on campus but aren't totally aware of the social scene and everyday happenings, even if you live nearby.
10. "I'm so glad to be done with dorm life."
No matter what downsides apartment life may bring, it will always be better than living in a dorm to you.
