Preparing for life after high school

Graduating from high school is scary, and students should always stay prepared for what is to come after walking across the stage. From moving into a new place or moving into a dormitory, students should always have a plan for what to do next, but it is almost impossible to prepare for something that one has never experienced. While these adjustments can be nerve-wrecking, the tips below will surely help graduates starting a new chapter in lives to be more comfortable.

  • Gear Up! (Get spirit wear from the college you are planning on attending)

After committing to attend a college, it is essential to buy gear for the college as soon as possible. The embodiment of having a great time during post-secondary education is having school spirit. Many college graduates, even years after graduation, are very proud of their alma mater.

  • Buy a calendar/schedule (Be organized and make sure to not double book yourself)

Keeping an updated calendar or schedule is important when it comes to staying organized. As one transitions from high school to college, it can become harder to keep track of one’s schedule because teachers and parents are no longer helping record important deadlines and dates. Without a calendar, it becomes harder to keep track of events and commitments. Commitments should be documented in order to help keep oneself accountable and organized without double-booking. Staying organized in this way also builds responsibility and reliability.

  • Less is more

When moving into a dormitory, it is best to pack lightly. Being a college student comes with all-night studying sessions and a roommate to share the space with. Because of this, it is imperative to have less stuff. The dorm room will also become one’s home for the next year, so it is likely that more clothes and books that will have to be stored in the room will be accumulated as well.

Tips for moving out

  • Make sure you have everything you usually use

Moving out without the materials that are part of a daily routine can throw a person off. When one moves to a different place, he or she should make sure they have all the same products such as skincare and hair products. If one hopes to transition comfortably into life in a new home, he or she should make sure to keep everything else the same to help settle in.

  • Get as many freebies from your parents as possible

The transition of paying rent, utilities and water can be overwhelming for many young adults. It is easy to accidentally overspend or not properly budget for the cost of living. A way to help prevent this is to take as many practical utensils or devices from one’s caregivers as they offer.

  • Generic works the same

There is no shame in buying generic items that work just as well as name brand products. Generic items are also usually cheaper and fit budgets better than name brand. Cheap grocery stores and discount variety stores such as Dollar Tree, Aldi and Wal-Mart will become a young adult’s best friend.