Renting
How far in advance should you start looking for an apartment?
A. 30 days
B. 90 days
C. 120 days
Up to 90 days!
At 90 days, do some research.
At 60 days, make some plans.
At 30 days, down to the wire.
All depends on context. If you’re moving across the country, 4-6 months in advance would be better.
How much should you save from your paycheck?
Anything!
Whether it’s $5 or $50, any bit of savings is helpful.
When you get paid, you should pay what second (after rent/utilities)?
Yourself!
Pay yourself first! Whether it’s a small treat, deposit into a savings/retirement account, or — non-monetarily — time!
You should negotiate for a reasonable higher salary.
Yes or no?
Yes!
The worst they can say is no. Do your research online and with people you know about how they negotiated a higher salary.
How much should you save for an emergency fund?
A. $50
B. $100
C. $500
$500-$1000
Start small and start now!
Where should you look for apartment listings?
A. Newspaper
B. Facebook
C. Laundromat bulletin board
D. All of the above
Everywhere!
There are the apartment sites, but also consider Facebook, Craigslist, and community contacts.
What type of financial institution typically offers lower interest rates?
A. Bank
B. Credit Union
C. Savings & Loan
Credit Union!
Credit unions are member-owned, not-for-profit institutions that typically provide lower fees and interest rates, while banks are for-profit entities.
How can you advocate for yourself in medical appointments?
Write down what your concerns are.
Bring a trusted friend.
Get a second opinion.
You should have work email on your phone?
Maybe?
Your employer doesn’t pay for your phone and you don’t work for them 24/7, so they shouldn’t have immediate access to you.
If you do need to have work email on your personal device, turn off notifications.
How often should you get your oil changed?
Check your car’s owner manual.
The “every 3,000 miles or every three months” rule is outdated.
You should check the unit for damages before or after signing the lease?
Before!
If that’s not doable, ask for a couple days to note condition and document it in photos/video and send it to your landlord.
Get everything in writing!
How can you build your credit rating?
Credit cards
Secured credit cards (backed by a deposit)
Small loans or car loan
Pay on time and in full
What self-care elements are fundamental to overall wellbeing?
Sleep and nutrition!
Sleep impacts every aspect of your health – get the amount that’s right for you.
Nutrition is also important especially when we’re busy! Get well-rounded nutritious meals at least once a day.
Who can you contact if you have a question about health care benefits?
Human Resources!
You can usually schedule an appointment with HR or a provider to get more information about benefits including insurance and retirement.
What is mutual aid?
Mutual aid is a form of community based support that exists outside governmental and organizational hierarchies.
What percentage of your take home pay should you use to gauge a rental budget?
A. 20%
B. 30%
C. 40%
It is recommended that you should use ⅓ or 30% of your income towards rent including utilities.
Note this may not be feasible where you you want live and you may need to consider different locations or options.
What is the equation for price per weight or volume?
Price divided by amount in weight or volume.
For example, if you want to buy a 12 pack of soda for $7.50: each can is 63 cents
Spending an extra dollar or two will save you money in the long run – buy bulk if it’s a staple!
What is described as a person's concern with striving for flawlessness?
Perfectionism!
Throw it out the window! Perfect doesn’t exist. We’re always growing and learning — especially from our mistakes. There’s a difference between doing your best and demanding perfection from yourself or others.
What does PTO stand for?
PTO=Paid Time Off
Take your time off! Schedule random long weekends throughout the year if possible. Take your sick time when you’re sick (including mental health days).
What should you do when life becomes overwhelming?
A. Crawl under the covers and stay there
B. Talk to a trusted friend or family member
C. Push through
Talk to a trusted friend or family member! Life, at some point, will become overwhelming. Especially as you are starting out. Make a plan for when things get overwhelming: have a couple days worth of frozen meals, ask a friend take on small chores, etc. Seek -- and accept -- support from those around you.
What is the law called where landlords cannot shut off utilities between October 15 and April 15 if a tenant is unable to pay?
The Cold Weather Rule!
What magazine resource can you consult for trustworthy product reviews?
A. Consumer Reports
B. Consumer Bulletin
C. Consumer Flier
Consumer Reports!
You’ll have access through a library (including UMD’s Library) and they provide rankings for a variety of products from cars to vacuums.
What is good for your body, brain, and overall happiness?
A. Exercise
B. Hobby
C. Friends
All of the above!
Job descriptions should encompass job expectations. When “other duties as assigned” is listed you should…
Ask about it!
Clarify work expectations when you interview.
As new work is added, consider your capacity and advocate for yourself if you need to shift your workload.
When are you considered an “adult”?
18 years old…
BUT…
No one ever feels like a 'real adult'! There are no “deadlines” in adulting and comparison is the thief of joy!