This article has been syndicated from Hey It’s Camille Grey, an InfluenceHer Collective Member. Read the full post here.
Transitioning from living at home with family to living on your own in a dorm or apartment can be quite nerve-wracking! That’s why it’s important to know your stuff when it comes to adulting. Learning these adult life hacks come with time and being at school, but others you will just need to sit down and do some research. Luckily, these tips will not only help you during your time as a college student, but they will help you transition into the real world once you graduate.
1. Using a credit card responsibly
It can be very beneficial to open a credit card while in college. Do your research to find out what type would be the best fit for you. I have a travel rewards credit card because I travel quite a bit. By the time you would like to purchase a car or a house, you’ll have quite a few years of credit history under your belt. Make sure you understand all the fine print of the card so you’ll have good credit.
2. Understanding time management
With all of the crazy college class schedules, clubs and meetings you are going to be busy. Not to mention time to do homework and study. This is the perfect time to learn how to manage your time. Maybe you’ll find out you don’t have time to go out every weekend. Sometimes you have to stay home and study this weekend and have fun the next.
3. Know how to write a resume and cover letter
Again with applying to jobs, you should know how to write these things! Being a college student means that you are becoming prepared to have the jobs you want. I learned recently that you should tailor your resume to the job you are applying for. This is such a great tip. For example, if you are applying for a clothing retail position, include any fashion experience you have. This way, you can show the company that you have a ton of experience that would make you a good fit for the job.
4. Book your own appointments
This one is really important. It totally is OK if you are in high school and your parents still make your appointments for you. But once you are in college, try to learn how to do it yourself. Ask your parents for any tips such as what type of insurance you have, but just call yourself. It’s not as daunting as you might think. You know your schedule the best, so it should be you who schedules the appointment.
5. Make your own coffee
If you spend $5 a day on coffee, by the end of the semester you’ll have spent over $300. That is insane! Make your own at home and bring it with you in a reusable container. Not only is it more eco-friendly, but it will also help you keep your budget down. Maybe you’ll have some extra money for those shoes you’ve been wanting. Don’t forget to double check what is allowed in dorm rooms!
6. Trying cooking your own meals
You don’t need to be an extravagant cook, but know how to cook a few meals! This will help you budget and eat in a few nights a week. Maybe invite a friend from your class over and surprise them with a great home cooked meal! This is much harder if you are living in the dorms, but once you have a place with a kitchen, try to experiment with some meals.
7. Know how and when to say no
There are so many events, parties, clubs to attend in college. While it is the time to get out and meet new people, know how to say no every once in a while to prioritize other things in college. This also means if you aren’t comfortable doing something. Maybe your friends want to attend a big party, but you don’t feel comfortable going. It’s okay to have a night in and pamper yourself! It’s totally fine to walk on your path of life and do what you enjoy.
Read the full post here.