If you’re like many college students returning for classes in the fall, you’re probably most excited for two things: the fall football schedule and the chance to live in a new off-campus residence. But before you get started on making plans for parties throughout the fall, you need to be ready for what life off-campus is like. This might be your first time living on your own, and you need to know what to be ready for during the year. 
First, make sure either you or a roommate has the electric bill in your name and always has the money ready each month. One surprise several people run into in their first Ohio University student rentals is the cost of electricity. You need to make sure you’ve budgeted for that as well as your rent before you plan for any parties or road trips. If you fail to pay it, you’re going to be in the dark and in trouble with your electric company. It’s likely one person will have the bill in their name, so make sure he or she has the money every month to pay the bill.
You’ll also want to plan a good study space in your area. You’re going to be off-campus, so walking to the library isn’t going to be as easy as it was before. You’ll need to set up a good area for hitting the books, because that’s the main reason you’re there. A desk with ample space to read and write is ideal for this task.
The key to a successful year off campus is making it feel like home while learning how to live as an adult. If you’re prepared going into the year, your first experience with student rentals is sure to be a great one.
