<prompt> Human: Ill be graduating this May and I just want to make sure Im on track. How much do you wished youd had on hand, or did have, while you were transitioning to full time professional work? Ill be making 30K but that will more than double one year ? hopefully, will be getting professional certifications out. Ill be staying in the city, so no need to buy a car. I know more is better, but realistically how much should I expect to need? Edited to add: I currently have 14k in savings, and estimate will get to 20k before May. Obviously that should be enough - how much should I anticipate needing to spend of that?  <response>: Youll need the security deposit and first months rent and maybe last months and an agent fee, depending where you are. Youll also want enough to cover yourself until your first paycheck for basic living expenses.More than that is obviously good, but thats pretty much bare minimum for most situations. Once youre getting paid, get an emergency fund built up ASAP. 