How to get "started"

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I am 20 years old and attending my third year at a state university.

I lived in the dorms my freshman year. It was a good time... I managed to stay on top of my courses, make friends, and work out. But then my sophomore year, my parents would not pay for my room and board. So I had to start commuting. Its only about thirty minutes, but my social life has greatly suffered because of it.

Now, I am about halfway through my third year at university. I don't want to live with my parents anymore. I want to get OUT! But I am not sure how to do that.

If you live independently, could you share some advice and experiences on how you got started? How did you balance school and work (if you were in college at the same time)? Where did you work?

I am also considering transferring to another school, since most of my friends at this school are drinking buddies with very little else in common with me. Even with my other friends here, I still don't have much in common with them.

Try to find out how much others who are living on their own are paying per month. Get a job and save up at least 1 months living expenses. During that time, figure out if you CAN balance work and school. If you can't, you are probably better staying at home for the time being. If it takes you longer then 1 month to save up for 1 month worth of living expenses.. you will probably be in trouble.

If this isn't something that absolutely needs to be done immediately, I would suggest just making sure that you have the ability to support yourself while tackling your studies before committing yourself to anything. And remember, school is not completely about socializing. If you are at the school you want to be in, screw leaving because of friends. Remeber, "the grass is always greener": nothing is guaranteeing that you will make "better" friends elsewhere.

Whatever you do, just watch your back, don't rush into anything, and just plain think things through. Good luck!