As a recent college graduate, I am still finding my place in the adult world. Navigating this has been a learning experience, but it would be unfair if I didn't share these lessons with my peers.
I'm moving on from the beginning of adulting. Welcome to level 3: full-time job, student loans, budgeting and other important things.
Changing your address
In the state of Missouri, residents have 30 days to change their address. I discovered this after 11 months of breaking the law. Find forms on the Missouri Department of Revenue website. It doesn't end there.
Stop by your Department of Motor Vehicles office to get your new drivers license with your current address. Turn on your mail forwarding at the post office. Update your bank information.
Call your car insurance company, your rates may change where you move. College students may use their home address. Treasure this, responsibilities come too soon.
Paying student loans
If you acquired student loans, join the club. If possible, pay above the minimum rate. Enroll in auto payments so you don't forget. Some handlers offer a percentage off your interest rate for it. This monster is affecting your credit, which is super important, so pay attention.
Budgeting
Speaking of working full-time, knowing there's steady income is great. Managing the money can be difficult when you're not used to it.
My friends consider me a good money manager. But I struggle separating "wants" and "needs."
If you need to get organized, look for free charts online. Here's my favorite. You can find step-by-step programs, like this one, to provide more guidance on credit, savings and financial stability.
Having a career
Welcome to work, you have to be there. Every. Single. Day.
No matter how catchy 9 is in all the songs, most jobs are 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Politics
The powers at be will track you down. I received a notice in the mail reminding me to register at my new address if I wanted to vote. It is a choice, but exercising this right is important.
Adults know what's going on in politics, it's important to know before laws change and it's too late. So keep up with the news. I recommend Bing.com because they offer rewards. #freestuff
Insurance
Get insurance. It's the ultimate safety net.
Appointments
Make appointments for things you need to do. Time is precious.
Show up at least 10 minutes early, because there's always more paperwork.
Don't forget to go to the dentist and the doctor because no one is going to take your health seriously if you don't. Mom can't make you.
