Living on your own is one of the most exhilarating aspects of growing up. It can also be the scariest thing you've done, especially if you’re doing it alone.
Being on Your Own
Don’t live on your own when you first move away from home. What I’m doing now is living in a townhouse with five of my friends.That situation might sound hectic, but it’s very exciting. Sometimes we say the wrong things to each other and problems arise, but most of the time we have great adventures and tons of laughter.
Make sure your new place is in a good neighborhood and close to your primary destination.This year, my townhouse will be down the street from my university and close to the shopping centers. Other college students live in the same area, and nothing is worse than living next to older people or small children during your college years. I’ve had my fair share of old, cranky neighbors and I would never want to experience that again.
Expenses
Work as much as you can! Apartments are expensive by themselves and once you add on utilities and wi-fi the price goes up like you wouldn’t believe. With rent, utilities, and wi-fi, my monthly payment for everything is over $500. Since I didn’t work through high school and barely worked my first two years of college, I barely have any money saved up.Thankfully, I have help from my mother, but I know other people aren’t as lucky as I am. I may not have money for extra little things like my friends do, but at least I have a nice roof over my head.
Home
Even though you are away from home, don’t forget to visit home once in a while! Living under your parents’ roof wasn't the best at times, but visiting won’t hurt you. Letting your parents know you miss them and appreciate them makes them feel loved.
