As a current junior (EEEK) at Texas Christian University, I have officially moved out of the dorms and into an (almost) adult house. With my first full week of living off campus in the books, I've had a bunch of new experiences. Here's just a few of my thoughts on the move off campus:

1. Cooking is fun, but time-consuming

I've loved having my own kitchen and being able to make whatever my heart desires rather than being subject to a dining hall menu. However, I'm also learning that making your own food comes with a lot of responsibility. I'm talking that in order to cook a meal you have to make time to go grocery shopping, cook, eat, and do dishes. Not to mention you have to plan out what you want to eat every week and budget (because being a poor college is SO fun). Even with the extra commitment, I'll still take home cooking over the dining hall any day.

2. Living off campus means seeing everyone way less

Lucky for me, I live with my two my best friends. However, I'm learning that living off campus means you see all your other friends WAY less. It also means that you have to be more intentional in your relationships and make time to see all your other friends.

3. Furniture/House Decor/General Living Expenses are NOT cheap

I guess there was a reason adults are always complaining about bills. Who knew furniture, food, and AC could rack up such a big bill?

4. Having guaranteed parking is the biggest blessing

Gone are my days of having to circle a parking lot for 20 minutes to find a decent spot and then have to hike another 15 minutes back to my dorm. Now I get to pull right up to my house, park, and be in bed watching Netflix in under 2 minutes. No more carting groceries up big hills either. #BLESSED

5. Living off campus is WORTH IT

Don't get me wrong, living in the dorms was fun and all, but having your own HOME is so much better!