College is full of new experiences, including moving out and living on your own. The thought of freedom is often much more thrilling than the actual reality of it. The realness of living on your own sets in quickly when it begins revolving around ramen noodles and dirty laundry. Let BD help you this year and check out our best tips to living on your own!

ROOMMATES

This is probably the most important advice we have to offer you about living on your own, so listen up. When living with others, it is always important to keep in mind that everyone comes from a different upbringing and background. If someone lives differently than you, it is crucial that you do not jump the gun and immediately get upset about something you dislike. When moving in with roommates, sit down and discuss boundaries or house rules. Having this initial discussion will help hold everyone accountable for their actions because you and your roommates will be on the same page from the start. Also, don’t be a bad roommate! Pick up after yourself and pay your bills.

LAUNDRY

Simply, just do it. Don’t let your laundry pile up despite your busy schedule. Throw in a load of clothes while you’re studying and work until it is done. If you’re confused about what can be washed together, just remember to keep whites and colors separate (unless you want your white socks to be a nice, bright pink). If your apartment or house does not have a washer and dryer, there are many laundromat’s around Corvallis where you can take your dirty laundry. Remember to save up your change to operate the machines and to bring your own detergent!

FOOD

A busy class and work schedule can make eating out seem like the easiest option most days. However, financially and health wise it is a bad habit to start. Set a monthly or weekly food budget and go grocery shopping. The left over money can be used for a variety of things and will soon add up if you are not eating out as regularly. If you have food at home and are going to be on campus all day, pack a lunch to save some cash rather than grabbing something to eat in the MU. We all know that the “freshman fifteen” is a harsh reality so try and shop healthy. Living off ramen noodles may be a good way to save money, but spending a couple extra bucks will definitely pay off in the long run. Also, always take food from your parents when you visit home. Always!

Living on your own will initially come with a lot of trial and error. You will find what you like and what you do not like about it, but we hope these tips serve as a good reference as you leave your parents home or the dorms for the first time. Enjoy these days and make the most of being an OSU student living in the best college town in the PAC-12!