Most of us students start out living on campus. Some of us even spend our entire college career in our dorms, only a few moments away from dining halls or classes. But some of us venture off into the vast unknown in search of off-campus housing and the ability to set our own quiet hours. This is what I learned from that adventure.

1. Bathrooms do not clean themselves.

2. Quarters are worth more than 25 cents.

Sure, I'll lend you $5 for lunch, but don't even think about touching my laundry money.

3. Make a list before going grocery shopping.

Otherwise, in a week, you'll be eating baby carrots and ice cream for every meal and wondering where it all went wrong.

4. You either need to learn how to kill bugs or how to live amongst them.

5. Buy a plunger.

Buy it before you need it, trust me.

6. Only pants can be re-worn.

7. Two dishes quickly become Mt. Everest.

Seriously, do them as you use them.

8. The same goes for trash.

When walking into your apartment feels more like walking into a wall made of skunks and old gym socks, it's been way too long.

9. Campus really is that far.

Thank god for bikes and public transportation.

10. Nothing's better than coming home to a made bed.

11. Floors actually do need to be cleaned.

Dirty feet? No thanks.

12. Rent day sneaks up on you.

It hasn't been a month already... has it?

13. It's difficult, but it's worth it.

Having a place that you can call your own, it's kind of awesome.