Joanna, that prepaid mastercard idea sounds great.....my parents have helped me over the years by sending cash and prepaid cards. I like the prepaid cards better because I am less likely to just spend the money on random things....instead if I get a Walmart card, the only place I can buy stuff is walmart.... When moving into a new apt., It is always the small things that cost so much money....i.e. extension cords, lightbulb, spices for the spice cabinent, cleaning supplies, etc. Those things are not that expensive....but when you move into a new place you kinda have to buy them all at once and it adds up. Hope that helps...and don't worry....my mom was the same way when I left home and everything worked out fine