I moved out two years ago, but really moved out "emotionally" four years before that when I left for university.
Despite the geographical separation, there are still a lot of connections. I pay for YouTubeTV which they use. They pay for Netflix & Prime & Hulu which I use. I'm on their cell plan, but I pay my costs each month. My point is that where it makes sense, there is nothing wrong with shared expenses. But I do think it's important to carry your own weight.
Make sure you know the code to the burglar alarm before you get there. Buy a fire extinguisher. Put together a medical kit for everyday injuries. If it's unfurnished buy just what you need as a bare minimum at first. When you've lived there a few months, you'll have a better idea of what you're actually going to need.
Get the job first. Determine if you are on your own (single apartment location) or with roommate(s). See if you are able to NOT have a car...public transportation which is easily accessible and on route to your place of work...can be a very big $ saver. One life hack...if you have the need for work footwear...learn to leave this footwear at work only and use travel footwear between commutes. Seems a bit silly but saves a ton of wear and tear
@GirlSerendipity Oh okay make sure you ask the landlord to change the locks in front of you that way you know they have been changed and that only you have the keys otherwise you have no idea how long the lock has been on the door and how many people have keys. Yes people are suppose to turn the keys but did they and did they have more keys. And deadbolt are the best meaning you need the key to lock it from the outside
When I moved out I never have had a roommate I think that is good but it's also bad it made it harder when I got married having to learn how to live with someone but it also teaches you Independence and you have your nice own place of solitude you can always go to without being bothered by anyone
@GirlSerendipity this is going to sound stupid, but buy the good stuff. Buy the 5 dollar can opener not the cheap 2 dollar one and things like that. Trust me on this one