12 Things I've Learned Since Living On My Own | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Student Life

12 Things I've Learned Since Living On My Own

Expiration dates matter, maybe.

20
12 Things I've Learned Since Living On My Own

No one ever said growing up would be easy, and man is that not the truth. Over the past two years there have been some major perks to living on my own in an apartment, but it's taught me more than I ever could have imagined.

1. Bills are expensive.

As in turn off every light always, showers should be less than three minutes, and heat is not necessary-expensive.

2. Remembering to pay those bills is hard.

You know that bills are due at the end of the month, but who wants to give almost a whole paycheck to The Man, so you subconsciously push it to the back of your brain until the next thing you know it's the first and you now have to pay a late fee. Congratulations.

3. It is extremely difficult to clean dried egg off of a deck door.

Drunk neighbors do stupid things, like egg your porch. Dawn, warm water, and a lot of elbow grease does the trick incase you were wondering.

4. It is extremely difficult to clean raw egg off of a kitchen floor.

I swear I had never dropped an egg straight on the ground until I lived in my own place, now it's like once a week. And I have no trick for you this time, I basically just go through a whole role of paper towels and sanitizing wipes.

5. Vacuuming makes a world of difference.

I'm not sure why, but any girl's place has these random hair balls all intertwined in the carpets that are so gross. It's not like I brush my hair in the middle of the living room, I have no idea where the hair comes from-but it's there. Vacuuming to the rescue though, it picks up those little suckers in no time.

6. Dishes pile up really quick.

Scarfing down breakfast five minutes before class means you leave a cereal bowl in the sink, then you blink and its as if an entire restaurant kitchen has thrown their dishes into your kitchen. It's really a vicious cycle.

7. Expiration dates matter, maybe.

There is a fine line between a sell by date and a use by date. What that line is, is up to you.

8. Always hide an extra roll of toilet paper somewhere.

You are somehow, at least once, going to run out of toilet paper. So to save yourself from having to use tissues until you can get to a store, stow an extra roll somewhere less obvious but still in a location that you'll remember. Share to save a life.

9. Smoke detectors are a real pain sometimes.

You leave some garlic bread in the oven for one extra second and suddenly you are engulfed in smoke and your neighbors hate you because your smoke detector is wailing at the top of its lungs.

10. Clean red wine stains immediately.

This is not a joke. Invest in a solid carpet cleaner and react instantaneously to any wine spillage. Your safety deposit will thank you later.

11. Tool boxes are handy things to have.

I have found that you are never going to know when you'll need a hammer or screw driver, or some multi tool your dad insisted you have.

12. Always give an extra key to a friend.

Pick a reliable friend, make them a cute key, and thank them times a million when they save your forgetful sorry butt.

Even though Mom and Dad aren't around to help you out, you'll make it--or die trying. Either way, I can promise you that you'll learn a lot.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

17562
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
Students walking on a sunny college campus with trees and buildings.

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

7512
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

5506
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

11 Signs You Live At The Library As Told by 'Parks And Recreation'

A few signs that you may live in the library whether you'd like to admit it or not.

4780
brown wooden book shelves with books

Finals week is upon us. It is a magical time of year during which college students everywhere flock to the library in attempt to learn a semester's worth of knowledge in only a week. For some students, it's their first time in the library all semester, maybe ever. Others have slaved away many nights under the fluorescent lights, and are slightly annoyed to find their study space being invaded by amateurs. While these newbies wander aimlessly around the first floor, hopelessly trying to find a table, the OGs of the library are already on the third floor long tables deep into their studies. Here is a few signs that you may live in the library, whether you'd like to admit it or not.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments