The time has come: you’re out of college! While your years of studies have equipped you with the knowledge you’ll need to land your first full-time gig there’s a lot to sort out when you’re fresh out of school. For example, how do you get your first apartment, and what do you need to furnish it?
Leave your old bedroom set at your parent’s house and get your new home prepared for life after college with this guide. Here are the items you’ll use — and cherish — for years to come.
1. A Comfortable Mattress
You’ve probably grown accustomed to your XL twin bed if you’ve lived on campus all four years. Now that you’re venturing out on your own, you’ll need to find a comfortable and sizable mattress that you’ll enjoy for years to come.
You spend about a third of your life sleeping (or trying to sleep), and a quality night’s rest is a must for performing your best on the job. Choosing a comfortable, spacious mattress in a full, queen, or king-size will help you get the rest you deserve.
When you want to upgrade your mattress or find yourself with more square footage, you can later add this mattress to your guest bedroom.
2. A Stylish Bed Frame
Nothing spells “fresh out of college” like a mattress and box spring directly on the floor! Get off the ground and create the illusion you’ve got it all figured out by opting for a stylish bed frame. Choose a quality, classic piece (or one that speaks to your style!) and you’ll already be ahead in life after college. Go the extra mile and opt for a full bedroom set that you’ll be proud to show off your first apartment to your friends and family.
3. A WFH Desk
Even if you’re not working remote these days, there’s a lot to be said for having your own desk and workspace. You’ll need somewhere to sit down to pay bills, file taxes, game, or browse the latest deals. A quality, well-made desk will be with you for years to come and can help you stay organized.
4. An Ergonomic Desk Chair
If you are working from home, an ergonomic desk chair is a must. Sitting in poorly made desk chairs can lead to a plethora of issues — from back pain to sore hips. Choosing a quality desk chair will help keep you feeling your best so that you’re free to enjoy life after work without aches and pains. Getting this one right on the first try can prevent you from contributing to fast furniture and from repeatedly spending your hard-earned cash on cheap, uncomfortable desk chairs.
5. A Cozy Sectional or Sofa
A well-made couch or sofa can stay with you for years to come. Choose a piece that is comfortable but supportive and suits your current space. You’ll need a place to relax and unwind at the end of the day, host your friends, and perhaps serve as an alternative WFH spot. Luckily, a sectional or sofa can do all three.
Add a coffee table, gallery wall, area rug, and media console and you’re done with your living area.
6. Smart Storage Pieces
Now that you’re wrapping up school, you’re likely going to have a little more time for your favorite hobbies and activities on the weekdays and weekends. If you’re wondering how to get prepared for life after college, start by getting organized. Storage pieces will help you keep track of your supplies — and your day-to-day essentials— making it easy to get in and out the door fast.
A console table at the entryway, a bookcase in the living room, or simply a dresser can work wonders while providing a bit of polish.
7. A Dining Table and Chairs (Or at Least Barstools)
While eating on the couch can be a treat, it’s not the best place to entertain guests. A dining table and dining chairs will help make your apartment or first home feel polished. Aside from acting as a place to take your daily meals, a dining table can serve as a WFH space in a pinch or as an area to tackle your latest art project or side-hustle. A dining set is something you can keep with you for years to come and serve as a wonderful gathering place.
8. A Few Statement Decor Items
You’ll want this space to feel like you — but where do you get started? Decor! Select a few decor items that coordinate to help make your space feel cohesive. You’ll get use out of wall art, rugs, faux plants, and decorative mirrors for years. Sprinkling a few pieces that are true to your style will provide a nice finishing touch to your space.
Find What You Need for Life After College at CORT Furniture Outlet
Graduation is a big life step — this milestone is both exciting (and at times) overwhelming. CORT Furniture Outlet is here to help you settle in post-graduation. With us, finding everything you need to furnish and decorate your first place after college is a breeze. Browse furniture and deco online or work with one of our experts in-store. We’ll help you find what you need at up to 70% off new prices. Then, you can take home your new items the same day.
