Shortly after you graduate, you feel life someone who's just had a large meal with all the people that you love. Everything's positive and cheery. You are celebrating your achievements, and you feel full You're content, stuffed and ready to move on.

And then you get the bill.

If you haven't thought about this moment before, then you haven't properly prepared yourself for your post-college financial obligations.

Here are five suggestions to help you prepare.

1. Start saving early

If you don't want to be burden my are the harsh fiscal requirements of college, then you better plan ahead, and start saving money well in advance. Get a high school job and don't spend your earnings. Open a savings account and regularly throw in just a small percentage of your wages.

2. Work while you go to school

If you want to soften the economic kick to the stomach known as college, and then get a job while you're in school. Think about it. College is four years of ridiculous spending on tuition, housing, books, food and fun. You can reduce the burden by bringing in some income. Any income. Work 35 hours a week if you can, or tutor for two hours a month. As you go through college, if you have money coming in, you'll have less to payback after you graduate. So although it may seem burdensome to have to balance school work with job work, it'll really help you out in the long run.

3. Prepare yourself for a career

Start developing focused career interests in college. Explore you your options. Ask questions from your professors and counselors. Visit the career center and research different specialties and salaries. Find a job that'll let you apply your major. Find internships or be an assistant. Secure a job opportunity before you graduate, and you'll better equipped to deal with your financial obligations

4. Learn not to live beyond your means.

Get used to budgeting. Shop for food wisely. Stop spending money on stuff you don't need. Get you to the idea of paying bills on time and accounting for all your expenditures. If you can control your spending in college, and live within your means, you will be prepared to deal with the new realities of post-college life.

5. Take your financial aid seriously.

Know what your financial aid obligations are before, during and after college. Apply for as much assistance as you can get. Research scholarships. Find grants. Apply for loans, Fill out your FAFSA each in every year in a complete and timely fashion.

Post-college debt planning doesn't have to consume your every waking moment while you're in school. Enjoy your college experience, but make preparations for the costs that you will incur. Once you graduate and get the bill, you'll be happy that you did.