We may seem like a know it all when we graduate college but there are some things out in the real world that you may not even know about.  From your new job to living everyday life, the real world is a lot different than college itself.  I’m going to list a few things that you may not even know about when it comes down the real world.

Your paycheck at your new job

Let’s face it, you’re going to college to make more money and if you got a degree that an employer actually wants, you’re going to find yourself making a lot more money.  In fact, you’re going to get that paycheck and you’re going to realize how much Uncle Sam is actually taking out.  Most college students are used to their $8-$10/hour jobs with little to nothing being taken out.  If you thought you got a lot taken out of your paycheck at a low paying job, wait until you actually make money!

Real life = bills

In college, you were probably used to your parents paying your bills or just paying your tuition bill and that’s it.  When you get on your own, you’re going to have so many bills off the bat, you’re head is going to spin.  From your rent to your car insurance to your heating bill.  I could list 10 off the top of my head.  Remember, don’t move out if you can’t afford it, it’s always smarter to save up than live like a bum!

Being young stinks

Most young adults graduate at the age of 22-24.  When you get out of college, you’ll probably be shy of that great age of 25.  If you’re not 25 yet, plan on paying some hefty fees on your car insurance.  Sure, you’re probably used to a beater now and having Mom and Dad paying for it but once it’s in your name and you’re paying the bills, you’re going to be paying a handful!

Health insurance is expensive too

If you get into a company that gives you health benefits, that’s great because you’re one of the lucky ones here in the United States.  If you don’t have health insurance, you better get it because you’re stupid not to have it.  Hospital visits can come at any time and believe me it’s not cheap!  A small surgery alone can cost you $40,000.  Can you afford that?  I highly doubt it.  Don’t be cheap and ditch out on an insurance plan that can easily be bought for $200/month at a young age.

Be prepared for student loans

Most student loans will start building up after about six months or so.  Most students don’t realize how fast they build up.  You’re going to have to prepare for them and pay them off as soon as possible so that you can get rid of that interest.  Student loans will never go away unless you pay them off.  Bankruptcy won’t even get rid of them.

It’s never too early for retirement

Just because you’re thinking too much about money doesn’t mean you can’t start thinking about retirement.  Let’s think of it this way.  The earlier you start saving, the earlier you can get out of the work force.  Start researching retirement options and start saving a little bit today.  Even it’s only a few dollars, it all adds up in the long run!

There are so many things that you probably don’t know about when you graduate.  As time goes on and you live the real world life, you’ll understand more about your bills and how to budget.  Reading things like this can only do so much and nothing can beat out experience.  Take your time in life and learn as you go.