College “Adulting 101” Classes Teach Laundry to Loans

Many college freshmen arrive on campus ready to study calculus or chemistry but still struggle with basic life tasks. Simple chores like doing laundry, buying groceries, or paying monthly bills can feel overwhelming when parents are hours away. To bridge this gap, schools across the country are rolling out “how to adult” courses.

Michigan State University calls its program “Adulting 101.” The class covers practical skills students need to live on their own. Instructors walk through everyday tasks such as sorting clothes, reading food labels, and cooking simple meals. Sessions also dive into money matters. Students learn how to open a checking account, build credit, and make a budget they can stick to. The goal is to help young adults “navigate the complexities of everyday life as an independent adult.”

Other campuses are following suit. The University of North Carolina offers workshops on apartment hunting and tenant rights. Arizona State hosts pop-up lessons on car care that include changing a tire and checking oil levels. In surveys, students say these hands-on tips lower stress and boost confidence more than any lecture about theory.