HSS, when I was in seminary most of my needs were provided for, and I had fewer responsibilities than at home. I did wash my own laundry & keep my room neat, but I did this at home also. The seminary provided three meals daily, so I did not have to cook my own meals; at home I helped prepare food for shabbos & cleaned up also, besides helping younger siblings with their homework. My parents provided an allowance that was more than adequate for bus fare, school supplies, and other expenses. No one had cell phones then, but my parents called me a couple of times each month & I wrote to them two or three times a week.
After attending seminary in E’Y I lived in my parents’ home while attending a local university. Even though I was living at home, I was in some ways more independent than I was while in seminary. I chose my major, planned which courses to take, bought my textbooks, and of course was responsible for my own coursework. My parents provided room & board, while I applied for scholarships and worked to cover tuition, fees, and books. At the beginning of each fall term, I’d arrange with my professors and TAs to make up tests, quizzes, and labs missed due to the Yomim Noraim.