Each year, for parents across the country, it is a sad day as their children are swept off and away to college. The child turns to walk away...a little grin appears on their face. They are about to become independent! This is a wonderful time for many of us, but the problem is actually LIVING on your own. Many students entertain the idea of living alone, but in many cases, do not prepare and it can become quite difficult at first. That is, if you don't feel like eating fast food every single night and more.

Living on your own at college means you will be in control of your expenses, job, homework, assignment deadlines and other things. However, this will come easier after time and can often become quite enjoyable. When you are looking at eating and food, you should try to have a smaller fridge and freezer, so you can keep frozen items in your room in case you get later night study cravings. And, purchasing a microwave will be of enormous help too.

Make sure there is laundry detergent and other laundry tools as the laundry pile really piles high very quickly when mom is not around. That is one of the first major things new independents will notice.

When you are preparing and getting ready to go to college, you should ensure all of your details are changed with the different financial institution, such as your bank and credit card company. You will wan to keep up with your payments as you won't want people banging on your door demanding money. Getting your finances in order whilst in college will prepare you for later life, when you leave college, and help you establish your credit rating when you really need it.

When preparing for college, you should always think about protecting yourself whilst in your dorm and the different things such as identity or your credit card information, as there will be thieves who want to steal these things from you including others such as a laptop. So, you should consider leaving valuables in secret place and lock your door at all times. You may think this is a little over the top, but there have been many students who have had items disappear, simply because they failed to lock their door.

It is also important to stay healthy in college. If another college student comes down with flu, which keeps them bedridden, then there may be the possibility of you catching it and missing some of your classes. This means that, when you spot a symptom, you should take advantage of your health center when feeling sick.

Take advantage of your health center if you feel ill. Be sure to bring plenty of warm clothes in case it gets cold and you have to walk through the freezing cold I n the morning for that 8am class. Trudging through the cold in your lightweight shirt and a pair of slacks just isn't going to keep your body warm enough for long.

While preparing for college, you should think about your dorm room and your living situation, and if you will take any decorative items to put up in your room. You will have a roommate and will need to get along with each other as this will help you survive your first year at college. You will both be staying in close quarters, so respecting each other's feelings and own space is of importance.