You still need a corded telephone because in a storm cellphone towers can be out of opperation or overflooded with use. So its really good to have a plain old phone that has a cord, just in case.

I don't know if you already have set a budget or if you are good with your finances. Either way, set up your budget. Lay it all out on paper, rent, phone bill, cable, internet, car insurance, renter's insurance, health insurance (if applicable), car payment (if applicable). I always start by looking at my set bills (the ones that are the same each month). Then I look at things that change like food, entertainment, clothing, and anything else.

Also, try and set aside a set amount into a savings account that you don't touch. Even $25 a month is a good start. If you have the money on hand it would be good to open this savings account with one month's rent. This way if you change jobs or something comes up you can afford rent for at least one more month.