Last week, my roommates and I moved into our first apartment together. So far it's been nothing but amazing, and we can't wait to see what fun lies ahead. Here are some bits of advice for any of you getting ready to take on the same adventure!
1) Do your research!
This one sorta covers the entire gist of this article, but it honestly is the best piece of advice I could ever give. Apartment complexes, especially in college towns, are targeting young students who don't read the fine print. Make sure you know what you're doing when it comes to something this important.
2) Involve your parents.
I know what you're thinking: the whole point of getting an apartment is to live on your own away from them. But face it, Mom knows best. They'll ask the questions you won't think about, and will make sure you weigh the pros and cons if you're torn between different places.
3) Find a place that is affordable.
Although it may seem like common sense to live in the cheaper of 2 apartments, it's insanely easy to get caught up in the beauty of a place, how spacious it is or that they have a beautiful gym. Trust me when I say that sacrificing some things to make sure your parents don't break the bank is totally worth it.
4) Location is everything.
Whether you want to be near the library, your sorority or a favorite bar in midtown, there are bound to be apartments all surrounding the perimeter of campus. Really weigh your options when it comes to location. Take into consideration that leaving an hour before class time isn't always the easiest after a wild night out.
5) Make sure your roommates have similar priorities and habits.
Decorations make your apartment a house, but the people inside truly are what make it feel like home. I personally spend equal the amount of time laying in my bed as I do watching movies with my roommates. We're not the same majors, in the same sororities or involved in the same things on campus, but all of us share our four bed, four bath girl cave. They're my people, and I'd never have it any other way.
6) Your room is your palace.
Print out pictures, look up DIY crafts on Pinterest, buy a custom shower curtain, etc. Your room should scream your name. It's so important to feel at home in your room, especially when you have the freedom to design it completely on your own.
7) Plan in advance.
You should not be Aubrey Plaza (above). It is so important to manage your time and prepare as much as you can in advance. Move in day is bound to be a one huge cluster of a day, so the easier you can make it on yourself the better. This means knowing that building Ikea furniture is no easy task, no matter how many diagrams they provide.
8) Stock up!
I personally recommend taking advantage of stocking up when your parents help you move in. Not just the food and wine, but get shampoo, toilet paper and a vacuum too. You may not need these things right away, but you will later find that you do. So, stock up now!
There you have it - 8 tips to (hopefully) help moving into your first apartment be an easy one! Gone are the days of communal bathrooms and hearing your roommate snore. Hello, freedom!
