7 Things You May Not Think About When Moving Out
Moving out can be exciting, but there are a lot of different factors that come with a new environment, new routine, and new experiences. Here are some things you may not think about when moving out!
Cooking your own meals – One of the hardest parts of living independently is learning to cook my own meals. I never use the right ratios, find the right temperature, or sprinkle enough salt. In the end, it never tastes like my mom’s chicken curry, or my dad baked salmon. Although I may not have mastered their recipes, I have been able to experiment with my own flavors and create new recipes!
Going to the grocery store – Growing up I would frequent the grocery store to assist in pushing the cart or checking for cracked eggs. After moving out, I now have to check labels, compare prices, and NOT pick up any and every delicious-looking snack that I pass by. Even though I don’t have an endless spending budget anymore, I do get to practice being responsible and self-disciplined when browsing around the grocery store.
Making your own schedule – The funniest part of moving out was sitting in my new room waiting for someone to tell me it’s okay to go out or allow me to go hang out with friends. I am in charge now which also means I am responsible for making sure everything is done for that day, which feels very rewarding after a productive day.
Taking charge of your faith – A tough part about living independently is taking control of my faith. Moving out meant setting aside daily prayer time as well as finding a church with mass times that worked for me. Thankfully living and being a part of the community at the St. John Paull II Newman Center meant the church was just downstairs or close by!
Compromising with your roommates – Living with family doesn’t warrant as much compromise as living with roommates does. Everyone has different expectations regarding something as small as what cloth can be used to dry dishes or as big as what temperature the house is kept at. Compromising can be tough but essential to a functional and fair living experience.
Paying bills – When I was younger, I would always see the MUD or OPPD bills lying on the table, but I never knew the magic number that was in that sealed envelope. After moving out I walk as quickly as I can past those envelopes in hopes that they will magically disappear! In all reality, paying bills has taught me how to be responsible with my monthly budgeting and overall spending.
Seeking friends – In my younger years hanging out with friends was easy because it either happened at school or my mom would organize it for me. After moving out, maintaining friendships and forming community became a lot harder with everyone so spread out. Intentionality is key and finding a community like the Newman Center was such a blessing.
Curious about living at the Newman Center in college? If you’d like a look ahead, come to our Spring Open House on February 25, 2023!