Moving Out Alone Brought Challenges, But Also Rewards

After living at home through college, one woman found the transition to independent living overwhelming at first, but ultimately empowering.

Mar. 14, 2026 at 12:12pm

Carrie Berk, a recent college graduate, decided to move into her first apartment alone after living at home for most of her college experience. The transition was overwhelming at first, as Berk faced challenges like setting up her apartment, learning basic adulting skills, and adjusting to living alone. However, she eventually learned to embrace the chaos and found a sense of empowerment in taking care of her own home.

Why it matters

Berk's story highlights the common struggles many young adults face when moving out on their own for the first time, from practical skills to emotional adjustments. Her experience shows that while the transition can be daunting, it can also lead to personal growth and a newfound sense of independence.

The details

After living at home through most of college, Berk decided to move into her first apartment alone for her senior year. She quickly became overwhelmed by the moving process and setting up her new home, facing issues like delayed furniture deliveries and technical problems. At first, Berk wondered if she had made a mistake in moving out, but she eventually learned to ask for help from her parents and friends. As she settled in, Berk found that living alone had its challenges, but also allowed her to enjoy newfound freedoms and take pride in taking care of her own space.

  • Berk moved into her first apartment during her senior year of college.
  • She signed the lease on her new apartment one week after touring the third building she visited.

The players

Carrie Berk

A recent college graduate who decided to move into her first apartment alone after living at home for most of her college experience.

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What they’re saying

“I'll be honest — when I moved into my first apartment after graduating from college, I didn't know the difference between Tide and Cascade pods, or how to use a plunger.”

— Carrie Berk (Business Insider)

“I thought pushing my parents away would make me feel more grown up, but I learned asking for help is healthy and normal.”

— Carrie Berk (Business Insider)

The takeaway

Berk's experience shows that while moving out on your own for the first time can be overwhelming, it can also lead to personal growth and a newfound sense of independence. Asking for help when needed is a sign of maturity, not weakness, and embracing the challenges of solo living can empower young adults to take on more responsibility in other areas of their lives.