While at college, you can get a head start on learning your major and future career path, developing your independence, and making international connections. However, most college students’ understanding of basic living challenges is lacking. For instance, how much money can you expect to spend on rent every three months? Is it more economical to live in off-campus housing? What are your transportation options? What might you have to spend on groceries every week? Aside from your studies, these questions and more are some of the most important ones you will face as a college student. Therefore, here are some tips for personal success during your stay in NYC.
Choose Your Housing and Roommates Wisely
Off-campus apartments are a great choice for students who would rather not have to deal with assigned roommates. With off-campus housing, you can gather a group of reliable, like-minded people willing to split the rent and customize your unit to suit your needs.
However, make sure everyone’s names are on the lease when looking for an apartment as a group. This way, you won’t have to worry about being the only one on the bill-paying hook. Off-campus housing costs are variable and subject to market fluctuations, whereas on-campus housing costs are fixed as part of a loan program that takes into account expected living expenditures.
Including all roommates on a lease assures that everyone will be responsible for rent, utilities, repairs, and more. However, in private homes, you will typically receive brand-new or recently refurbished conveniences that are less likely to break during your stay.
Budget and Cut Costs
The following advice may help you get your financial house in order:
- Buying in bulk and splitting the cost with your pals is a great way to save money.
- Try looking for pre-owned books or textbook rental services online.
- Joining a club or organization at school might help you save money while having fun in activities that look good on a CV.
- Taking the bus, walking, riding your bike, or skating are good, cost-effective ways to travel.
Be Aware of Your Locks
Before you move in, check with the landlord to see if new locks have been installed on your apartment. In addition, always review your contract for specific instructions regarding locks. You may need a locksmith to put new locks on your front door. In addition, your landlord may require that you leave a key with them in case of an emergency.
If you’re a New York City student needing off-campus accommodation, there are great places just waiting for you. Whether you’re in New York for a summer program or during the regular school year, Outpost Club can provide you with comfortable short-term lodging so that you can make the most of your educational opportunities while you’re here.
Carefully Plan Your Time
Effective time management is a skill that must be practiced regularly. Successful people use their goals to inform their time management strategies, giving higher priority to activities that move them closer to their end goal.
Naturally, it’s not always possible to expect your priorities to align so easily. Sometimes, things just come up, and other times, procrastination wins. Therefore, leaving some wiggle room in your schedule could be helpful in case something comes up.
Take Care of Your Health
Self-care is the most important factor in reaching your goals. No matter what you’re working for, keeping your mind and body in good shape is essential. For instance, a lack of sleep can negatively impact your body’s capacity to function at your best.
Finding a happy medium between your academic endeavors, extracurricular activities, and other duties is vital. Therefore, allow yourself the time and space to reflect on how you’re feeling and adjust your priorities as needed.
Conclusion
Living off campus means the beginning of a new kind of freedom. However, making mistakes is inevitable when you move out on your own for the first time. Nevertheless, if you are prepared, you can alleviate a lot of the stress of being newly independent.
