I've been out of my house for almost a year now. I currently reside in New York City and just living here has been a whole new experience for me. In the last year, I have moved into an apartment, completed one academic year of conservatory, and gained more confidence in myself. The list could honestly go on and on, but I've decided to pick the top ten things I have learned since moving out of the house.

1. Bills, bills, bills...

I never knew how expensive everything was until I had to pay my own bills and buy my own groceries. I was lucky enough to have great parents who helped me but it was definitely stressful when it came around to paying for Wifi, rent, taxis, the subway...etc.

2. How to use a handheld can opener

Okay, I know that this is weird, but we always had an electric can opener in my house. And because of this, I never learned how to use a handheld one. Learning to use one was actually quite difficult for me and I'm not sure why. My friend who was teaching me over FaceTime was becoming frustrated until I finally understood.

3. How to use a dishwasher

I also never knew how to work a dishwasher. Yes, I know that all you have to do is put the dirty dishes into the dishwasher, and put some dish washer soap in. BUT, I never knew what kind of liquid to buy, or the gels, or where you put them. So, I had my roommate teach me.

4. Self-motivation

Having the motivation on a bad day is pretty much nonexistent. Whenever my depression got really bad, I had to find my own motivation to go to school, eat, exercise, go to rehearsals, etc. It's not an easy feat but it is possible without your parents cheering you on from the sidelines.

5. Taking care of myself when sick

I have an autoimmune disease and so I get sick just about every four to five weeks, and since my mom isn't around to drive me to urgent care, I had to walk myself to it. Just having the energy to walk was enough to put me out after the doctor. It was especially hard when I had to cook my own food and remember to take my medication. I think the scariest part was going to the hospital and not having anyone there.

6. I am the Mom in my group of friends

If you ever need a mom friend in your life, hit me up! I've realized that I am the mom. I take care of my friends all the time, and I'm more than okay with it. From the parties to a boy breaking their heart, I was always there.

7. Finding a job is hard

I have two jobs, and I'm getting a third, but even now, I'm having difficulty finding a job with flexible hours and good pay, especially in New York. I wish I had done this sooner, because now I'm struggling even worse.

8. Grocery shopping should be done in multiple trips

Since in New York most of the population walk, I've learned that grocery trips should be done in small chunks throughout the week. Also, only buy the necessities. Do you really need that ice cream? And if I'm answering it, yes.

9. Save cash in a safe place

I am not good with saving money but ever since I bought a piggy bank, I've saved so much money. I only have one because I babysit as one of my jobs and I get paid in cash, so I split my cash 30/70; meaning I keep 30% and 70% goes into the piggy.

10. I took for granted how easy it was to live at home

I never realized how much I took for granted my homes in Virginia and Florida. It was so easy to live at home and not have to worry about paying bills, or wondering when my next meal would be. Every time I come home now, I just take in all that home has to offer, like the beach, or just driving my car.