Life After College: Essential Lessons Every Recent Graduate Needs to Learn

Learn these basics and trust us, you'll be off to a better start than most people.

Graduating from college is an incredible achievement, but stepping into the “real world” can feel overwhelming. Suddenly, the safety net of structured schedules and campus life is gone, replaced by adult responsibilities you may not have learned about in your coursework. To help you navigate this transition, here’s a list of some life skills and lessons that every recent graduate should know.

1. Understanding and Building Credit

Opening your first credit card is a crucial step in building a strong financial foundation. A good credit score impacts your ability to rent apartments, buy a car, buy a home, or even qualify for some jobs.

Helpful Tips:

• Start with a secured credit card if you have no credit history.

• Always pay your balance in full to avoid interest charges.

• Monitor your credit score regularly through free services like Credit Karma.

2. Finding and Living with Roommates

Roommates are often necessary post-college due to the outrageous cost of living, but living with others requires good communication, cleanliness, and compromise; A list of skills that many people don't learn until roommates in college.

Helpful Tips:

• Set clear expectations for shared expenses and chores upfront [before you sign your lease]

• Use apps like Splitwise to track and share costs.

• Meet potential roommates in person or via video call to gauge compatibility.

Renting your first apartment after college

3. Renting an Apartment

Renting your first apartment can be daunting, but preparation is key. Use Zillow, HotPads, Realtor.com, and Facebook to start your search.

Helpful Tips:

• Budget for rent, utilities, and upfront costs like deposits and moving expenses.

• Always read the lease thoroughly before signing.

• Check online reviews or visit the area at different times of day to assess safety and convenience.

4. Creating a Budget and Sticking to It

Budgeting is essential for financial independence and stability.

Helpful Tips:

• Follow the 50/30/20 rule: 50% for needs, 30% for wants, and 20% for savings or debt repayment.

• Use budgeting apps like CreditKarma or YNAB for tracking.

• Automate savings to build an emergency fund.

5. Mastering Grocery Shopping and Meal Planning

Gone are the days of dining hall meal plans. Grocery shopping and meal planning save money and improve your health.

Helpful Tips:

• Shop with a list to avoid impulse buys.

• Plan meals around affordable staples like rice, beans, and pasta.

• Look for sales and buy in bulk when possible.

Grocery List:

Here’s a list of some basics to keep in your house for simple meals:

• Proteins: Chicken thighs, ground turkey, eggs, black beans.

• Grains: Rice, pasta, tortillas, oats.

• Vegetables: Carrots, onions, broccoli, spinach, bell peppers.

• Fruits: Bananas, apples, frozen mixed berries.

• Dairy: Shredded cheese, milk, Greek yogurt.

• Pantry Staples: Olive oil, canned tomatoes, peanut butter, spices (salt, pepper, garlic powder).

6. Navigating Dating in the Real World

Post-college dating is more nuanced without the convenience of campus life, but there's still hope! Apps have come a long way and friends are happier than ever to set up their friends across channels.

Helpful Tips:

• Explore shared hobbies or interests to meet people outside of apps.

• Set boundaries early and communicate expectations clearly, this will be a theme in the rest of your lives.

• Prioritize safety, especially when meeting someone for the first time.

Life After College: Essential Lessons Every Recent Graduate Needs to Learn

7. Scheduling and Managing Your Own Appointments

Managing your schedule becomes entirely your responsibility after college. Why so many people freak out about making their own appointments we'll never know, I think it all comes back to how we as young adults don't like to do things we don't understand, shoulder shrug.

Helpful Tips:

• Use a digital calendar to track appointments and reminders.

• Book annual check-ups and dentist appointments proactively.

• Ask questions during appointments to understand your care options.

8. Celebrating Holidays with Family and Friends

Balancing traditions, travel, and personal time during holidays can be tricky.

Helpful Tips:

• Plan holiday travel early to save on costs.

• Be honest with your family about your availability and budget.

• Start your own traditions if you can’t be with loved ones.

9. Building and Maintaining Friendships

Friendships often require more effort post-college.

Helpful Tips:

• Schedule regular calls or visits to stay connected.

• Join local clubs or classes to meet new people.

• Don’t be afraid to reconnect with old friends.

10. Developing a Healthy Work-Life Balance

Starting your first job can feel all-consuming, but burnout is real.

Helpful Tips:

• Set boundaries with work hours and unplug after hours.

• Schedule downtime for hobbies and self-care.

• Learn to say no to extra responsibilities when needed.

11. Taking Care of Your Mental and Physical Health

Prioritize your well-being to handle the stress of post-college life.

Helpful Tips:

• Establish a workout routine that fits your lifestyle.

• Explore mindfulness techniques like journaling or meditation.

• Reach out for help if you’re struggling—therapy is a valuable resource.

12. Learning Basic Household Maintenance

Owning or renting a home requires some DIY skills.

Helpful Tips:

• Invest in basic tools like a screwdriver, plunger, and duct tape.

• Watch YouTube tutorials for simple fixes.

• Keep a list of emergency contacts, like plumbers or electricians, handy.

13. Managing Your Career Path

Your first job out of college is just the beginning of your career journey.

Helpful Tips:

• Set short-term and long-term career goals.

• Seek mentorship from experienced professionals.

• Continuously upskill through online courses and certifications.

14. Navigating Taxes and Other Adult Paperwork

Filing taxes and understanding insurance are essential but often confusing tasks.

Helpful Tips:

• Keep track of important documents like W-2s and receipts for deductions.

• Use tax software or hire a professional for complex situations.

• Take time to read and understand contracts before signing.

Final Thoughts

Life after college can feel like a steep learning curve, but you don’t have to figure it all out at once. Tackle these lessons one at a time, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it. Remember, no one has it all together—and that’s perfectly okay. Adulting is a journey, not a destination!

What lessons do you remember the most from those first few years after college?