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Life 101 for the Real World

By: Colleen | October 09, 2007 | Category: General

A few years ago I graduated from the best college ever in the entire world (actual fact), the University of Pittsburgh. While I feel I received a tremendous education and had the time of my life, I realized I was lacking a critical course upon entering the dreaded "real world." All collegiate curriculums should include a semester enrolled in: Life 101.

My first day on the j-o-b left me completely overwhelmed with stacks of paper-work on retirement plans, health care options, investment ideas, automatic deductions...etc. Totally clueless and nearing tears, I did what every dual-degree holding recent grad should do- got on the horn and called Dad.

While there is no better source of advice to a gal than her dear ol' Dad, there are plenty of resources available for young grads trying to figure out exactly what a 401(k) is, and how the heck health insurance really works.

First off, to land that first "dream job" (read: entry-level) "Employment Interviewing" has key pointers of what is expected in a professional interview. Once you ace the interview, you'll need to figure out your benefits (btw-health insurance...SUCH a good thing!). "Top 10 Ways to Make your Health Benefits Work for You" explains what you should look for in a healthcare plan, and helps you identify your specific needs. Thinking long-term, "Life Advice About 401(k) Plans" gives you the dish on planning for retirement (seems crazy first week on the job, but necessary) and breaks down different investing options.

Now, before you go blow that big, fat, first paycheck on those fabulous new stilettos (siiigh) make sure all that "other" stuff is under control. You might just have enough left over to make it a "Blockbuster" night. Welcome to the real world.