Living Without Your Parents

Moving away to college is one of the most exciting, scary, and overwhelming experiences that will happen in your life. For many, this may be the first time you are living without your parents and going out on your own. It doesn’t matter if it is across the country or only thirty minutes away - you will find a new sense of independence. It is an adjustment that can be hard to make, but you will learn so much about yourself and build a new community around you.

There are some things that you will have to get used to once you move out. Your parents are not going to be there to make you dinner or schedule your doctors’ appointments. There will be challenges you will face when becoming in charge of your own needs. You will have to figure out your personal budget, go grocery shopping, and do your own laundry.

Even though having all these new responsibilities once you’re on your own can be a shock, it will be rewarding, too. You get to decide what you want, and when you want it. There is no one telling you that you cannot have another ice cream sandwich or order pizza three nights in a row. It’s ultimate freedom at its finest.

Living without your parents is not only you becoming independent, but it also when you find out more about who you are. College is an amazing time, because it can offer you so many opportunities to find new passions and explore new interests. When you first get to college, you are going to be bombarded by many students already involved in clubs, organizations, and campus activities. They will be more than happy to give you information and share their experiences with you. Take advantage of this time; joining a club or organization will help you feel more connected to your school, and it is a great way to make friends outside of classes. Starting out on the right foot will help you have a much more fulfilling college experience.

Don’t be afraid to go out to any events your school may be having at the beginning of the semester. Part of college is being pushed out of your comfort zone and trying new things. If any club slightly spikes your interest, go. It may be intimidating, especially if you don’t know anyone, but trust me: you will not be the only lone person there. Most clubs keep this in mind, and the first meeting will usually be a meet and greet. It is easier to get involved in clubs if you start with everyone else, rather than finally getting the courage to go to a meeting halfway through the term.

Making connections and being involved makes moving out a much more enjoyable experience. The friends you make along the way will be going through the same things as you. Being on your own is scary and stressful, but having people there to help you along the way can help you cope with the stress. Part of living without your parents is paving your own way, and making new connections while building a community around you.

College is not just about getting a degree and finding employment after graduating. It is the place to try new things, make mistakes, and make lifelong friends. The most exciting part is that this is up to you, not your parents. Up until high school graduation, most of your life has been influenced by your parents in some way. This is your first real chance to build a life that you want. Make the most of the opportunity while you can. College will go by faster than you realize, and you will be amazed at how independent you will become. Living without your parents will be difficult at first, but it is nothing you won’t be able to overcome.