Breaking Free from Small Town Life
Growing up in a tiny town with a graduating class of less than 90 students was suffocating. The isolation was overwhelming, and I knew I had to escape. At 17, I took matters into my own hands and found an apartment in Chicago, where I could start fresh and pursue my passion for photography.
The Reality of Living on a Budget
As a college student, I had to rely on work-study jobs to make ends meet. With a maximum of 20 hours of work per week, my monthly income was a mere $700. This had to cover all my living expenses, including rent, utilities, food, and more. I had to get creative to make it work.
Finding Affordable Housing
I scoured the city for an apartment that fit my budget of $400 a month. It wasn’t easy, but I finally found a three-bedroom apartment on the far northwest side of Chicago. The commute was long, but it was worth it for the affordable rent.
Managing Utilities
Utilities were a constant stress factor. In the summer, my roommates’ love for air conditioning sent our electric bill soaring to over $120. And during the polar vortex of 2013, our gas bill reached a staggering $600. I had to sell some camera equipment and get help from my family to cover the cost.
Phone Bill and Food Budget
My phone bill was my biggest “splurge” at $60 a month. As for food, I had a meager budget of $40 a month. I survived on cheap meals like $1 McDonald’s cheeseburgers, peanut butter, and canned refried beans. It wasn’t until I qualified for food stamps that I could afford to eat better. The extra $200 a month was a game-changer, and I finally got to enjoy healthy food again.
Laundry and Miscellaneous Expenses
Doing laundry without a washer and dryer in the building was a hassle. I had to go to the laundromat once a month, which cost me around $15. I also had to budget for miscellaneous expenses like school materials, toiletries, and cleaning supplies.
Saving Graces
My tax refunds and occasional freelance photography jobs helped me stay afloat. I learned to appreciate the value of money and managed my finances carefully. Looking back, I’m proud of how I navigated those tough times.
Lessons Learned
Living on a tight budget was challenging, but it taught me valuable lessons about money management and prioritization. I wouldn’t change a thing, even though it was hard. I gained an appreciation for the importance of budgeting and learned to make the most of what I had.
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