It’s a new world out there, and it can be hard to know where to start. Your recent experiences at college have given you valuable insight into what life might be like as you transition from living on campus to living off campus. As you make the transition, you’ll be able to settle into new routines. Let’s examine things to be aware of to help ease the transition.
Consider Your Living Arrangement Preferences
When you leave campus, you’ll most likely be renting a room or small apartments like a studio or a one-bedroom. It might be difficult for you to choose, so think about your ideal living arrangement. Would you like to have things quieter, especially if your new job starts early in the morning? Would you like to live with others who have pets? Will the new place be close to accessible public transportation? Renting is common, according to the Rental Protection Agency. They estimate that around 40% of people between the ages of 15-34 make up renters in the United States. So know that you aren’t alone as you go through this process.
Read All the Fine Print
When you consider renting a place, you must read the rental or lease agreement very carefully. Private homeowners may not provide you with state-specific contracts or may try to include clauses into their contracts that aren’t legally required or enforceable in your state. More prominent property owners or property management companies may require you to abide by specific rules while on the property. There may be restrictions on modifications you can make or personal items you can store or not store.
Experiment With Cooking Skills
Life outside college brings the ability to start learning healthy recipes. Brushing up or learning new cooking skills will take time but will serve you well during your life. Throwing a dinner party is also a different life activity after college, so don’t forget to have some friends over for a meal. Consider investing in cooking tools that make creating meals easier and faster, like an electric pressure cooker.
Living off campus is a big adjustment for many students, but it’s also an exciting time of new experiences and independence. It will take you some time to settle into your new place, learn the bus routes, learn where things like grocery stores and hospitals are, and more. Keep moving forward with your plans and reach out to trusted people in your life if you find yourself in a situation you’re not quite sure how to handle.
