How My Compensation Will Shape My Living Decisions

Graduating from college is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with the reality of adult responsibilities, especially when it comes to finances. Between student loans, rent, and all the other costs that come with post-college life, managing a starting salary is something my buddy Theo and I are both preparing for.

That’s why Theo and I have decided to share an apartment after I graduate from Oregon State University. Theo will be starting his career as a real estate agent, and I will be working as a construction engineer at Swinerton in Portland. Our decision to live together is influenced by how we will each handle our compensation and make the most of it as we begin our careers.

For Theo, his income will depend on commissions, so it will fluctuate. Some months he will earn a lot, and others less. This uncertainty makes it important for him to keep his fixed costs, like rent, as low as possible. By sharing an apartment, he can save more and build a financial cushion to reinvest in his real estate business. His potential to earn more in the future motivates him to manage his money carefully now so he can grow his earnings over time.

For me, it is a little different. My salary will be steady, but it will not be large. Because of this, I need to be smart about how I use it. With rent being one of my biggest expenses, sharing an apartment will allow me to save for things like certifications and additional training that will help me advance in my career. It gives me the chance to focus on those long-term goals without stretching my budget too thin. The consistency of my paycheck motivates me to plan ahead and make sure every dollar works toward my future.

In the end, compensation shapes how we think about our money and what we prioritize. For both of us, living together is not just about saving on rent. It is about making sure our earnings are used in the best way possible to set us up for success. By pooling our resources, we can focus on our careers and goals without the added stress of financial pressure.