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College graduation is less than a week away and you still don't have a job. So you're thinking about how you could move back home without causing a lot of strain on the whole family. Want some advice? Just take some time and think this situation through before you call your folks.

Logistically, your younger brothers will have to give up their own rooms and move back in together. That may not go over very well. Mom and dad will probably ask you to contribute something for food; maybe even pay rent. Finances are the reason you're thinking about moving back so you don't have a lot of cash. On the other hand, even a small contribution could help you retain a measure of independence. There are probably other things you can do to help out, other than just financially.

The problem is that the job market is really tough. You've had a couple of local offers but neither will pay what you had hoped to make. If you accept either of them, you'll barely scrape by. You can kiss saving any money goodbye. If you move back home, you could take a job that pays less and still probably save a little, even if you do give mom and dad a monthly amount. With some experience under your belt, you will eventually move up the ladder and be able to find a job that will allow you to get a place of your own. But still-moving back home feels like a step backward in the wrong direction. If you do decide that the best thing is for you to move back home after college graduation, what can you do to make it less of a strain on everyone?

Now you can pick up that phone and have a serious conversation with your folks about what you are facing. You'll need to explain why you want to move back home. Be prepared to make some concessions. After all, you've been gone for four years. You'll need to discuss room arrangements. Don't forget to tell your parents that you want to help out financially. You will have to get a job first, but once you do, one of the best steps toward independence is to begin taking responsibility for your own material needs; at least as much as possible.

Moving back home is going to seem strange because you are used to going and coming as you please. Your folks will need to remember that you are now an adult. It's reasonable for you to still be able to keep your own hours. However, mom and dad may have certain house rules that everyone living in the home must abide by. If you want to move home, you will have to be willing to follow the same rules. Although you have the right to

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