1. What college will you attend? Look up (and write down) the tuition, room and board, and fees to attend that college. Most college websites are easy to navigate, but almost all have a search bar if you can't find tuition. Divide that number by two if it shows full year costs to see how much you will need to pay per semester. 2. Determine housing: Will you rent a one-bedroom apartment, split rent for a multi-bedroom apartment/house, or live on campus? Search for an available apartment or house for rent near the college you chose. For example, if you want to attend The Ohio State University, search for a house for rent in Columbus, Ohio. Determine the price per month and add that to your budget.

3. Transportation: You will need a way to get from your home to school and to work. Do you want to buy a car? Will you take public transportation? Is there a taxi service, Uber, Lyft, subway, train, etc.? Find a car to buy and figure out price per month, or figure out how much public transportation will cost per month and add it to your budget. Do you need to pay for fuel for your personal car? Research and add insurance (liability is minimum coverage- if you are in a wreck, your insurance will cover the other person's car but not yours; full coverage means they will pay for your car and the other person's).

4. Food: How much will you budget for food throughout the week/month? Will you cook or eat out? Justify the amount you determine.

5. Other items: Will you pay for internet? Cell phone? Netflix or other streaming service? Any TV service? Clothes? Add any other items you feel necessary.

6. What will your work schedule be? How much money will you earn per week? Per month?