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How old were you when you left home? 17 for college, 21 for good- 4 months after college graduation

What was probably one of the biggest challenges that you had when living on your own? Juggling school and work? paying bills? room mates? Adapting to paying for EVERYTHING. Before I moved out I paid for some of my cothes (I have an obsession with designer sunglasses and my parents think $350 on sunglasses is ridiculous) and that was about it. I've always been anal about my spending habits so luckily I haven't run into too many money issues except a massive credit card bill here and there. Right now I'd say my biggest issue is coming to terms with the fact that I will be working the next 30some years.

How has the experience made you feel thus far? What would you change about it? I moved down south, which I've wanted to do since high school, so I absolutely love my decision. I was worried about homesickness since I dealt with that my first semester at college, but I'm so happy where I am now that it hasn't been an issue. So far the experience is extremely fulfilling and has definitely made me more mature.

What advice would you give to a parent faced with the prospect of a child that has to leave the nest? Let them do it! I know how much my parents miss me, but they know that I'm happier in NC than living back home. Don't make your kids feel guilty for wanting to try something new. And my parents also emphasized, before I moved, that it was OK if it didn't work out and I came home. They made sure to tell me that moving back wouldn't be admitting defeat.

Under what circumstances would you let your child return home or you would give them help? My parents have paid for a few things here and there since I moved (buying my furniture and stuff like that) and have told me if I ever need help, they'll help me. My best advice to people moving out on their own is to SAVE UP. I worked full time for 3 months while I lived at home and having several thousand in the bank when I moved has definitely given me a peace of mind when a larger-than-expected bill comes in the mail.

Which do you think is harder to cope with: a daughter learning to live on her own or a son facing the same thing? I think parents may worry more about daughters. I know a big concern was safety when I moved out of state to an area no one in my family knew anything about. I have a roommate and live in a gate controlled apartment complex, so that puts my parents' mind at ease a little. But honestly, daughter or son, I think a child moving on is going to take some time to deal with.