Living and loving the independence

Jobs • Finding job opportunities • Resume-writing tips • Shine in your interview • Successful salary negotiating     Finance • Money Management 101 • Student loan strategies • Establishing credit • It's easy to save     Lifestyle changes • Living on your own • Buying your first car • Insurance needs for new grad • Building your career     Taxes • Quick intro to taxes • Managing your taxes • Can I deduct it? • Bloopers and scams     Tool kit • Tools for enhancing your career • Money management tools • Tools to tweak your living expenses • Tax toolbox     Back to splash page

Welcome to the Real World! You got your diploma -- now what? You probably have no clue what you're going to do with the rest of your life, or maybe you are one of the really wise people and have it all planned out. Either way, no doubt about it, your lifestyle is changing.

In this section of our survival guide, we'll show you how to survive and thrive on the adventures you'll be taking. Whether you will be striking out on your own or moving in with Mom and Dad for awhile, we've got tips to make your transition as smooth as possible.

Compiled by Dena Dubay, Dani Arthur, Amy Fleitas and Myra Cristobal. Illustrations by Brandy Kesl.