Originally Posted by Thighs
dude...my primary focus would be getting that job situated first. i wouldn't even CONSIDER moving out unless i was 100% sure i had a steady job going (especially with today's economy). i wouldn't even save up 1mos worth of rent...i'd do ATLEAST 3mos in addition to whatever your security deposit might be. when i say 3mos...i mean 3mos of whatever you expect the TOTAL to be (in your case...that'd be $3k). my first apartment was a campus type apartment, where i had 3 roomates, and everyone had their own room and was responsible for THEIR OWN rent. although i didn't have to, i'd pay my rent 6mos in advance. i paid $500 per month, and everything was all inclusive (except for my telephone bill), and it was a 12mos lease. basically...i'd just pay the leasing office $3k, and i'd be cool for the next 6 mos.
no offense, but not being prioritized can't be a costly mistake (i've made more than enough of those mistakes). focus on that job first man! it's more than worth it! accepting the fact that you MIGHT have to stay home a little longer than you want just to get everything 100% feels much better than having to come back home and feeling like you couldn't make it on your own (for whatever reason).