I found working in a call center was actually one of the better paying jobs I had as a youth, although that was generally full time. Most first jobs will be sort of crappy but the one thing I wish I had been more aware of when I first started working was attitude. Show up on time, smile and be positive, work harder then everyone else, and always give a hand to your fellow work mate. If you keep those in mind when you get a job you will not only keep your job but also advance, people love positive hard workers who will always give them a hand when they need it.
If you can manage to save up enough money to cover rent for a couple months, first month and damage deposit are due right away in most Cities and then having an extra month paid up will help your tremendously. I know too many people who pay their rent each month but only have the money ready for it days before, if you live pay cheque to cheque then you are closer to homelessness then you would think. Try and be ahead on your bills if possible, that includes utilities, phones, internet, or any other fixed cost you may have.
There are variable costs when you live alone, entertainment, food, clothing, vacations. Those are things you should pay attention to, that's where most peoples money goes to because they don't keep track of it. If you keep a detailed budget you will be so far ahead of everyone around you, my Mum taught me to budget like I was going to do it for a career and I saved a lot thanks to her.
Finding an apartment may be hard at your age, be ready for it because I wasn't. A lot of people don't want to rent to young people in case they party or damage the apartment. If you end up getting a slumlord and a sort of crappy apartment make sure you cover your bases legally so you don't get ripped off in the end. Do a walk through inspection and write down everything you see, you're not being rude. Read your lease thoroughly before signing it, keep it in a safe place to access when you need it. Keep every receipt for rent paid, some people only takes cheques while others take cash so it's important to keep track of.
If you get a roommate be prepared to love or hate them, it's a learning process to live with someone new. Pick and choose your battle carefully because moving is a hassle but so is living with a slob, just know when you really need to make a change vs letting it slide and moving on. Don't stay in a relationship just because you live together, a lot of people do this because it's uncomfortable to break and live together for awhile after or they're scared to move out on their own after becoming dependent on someone. In that line of thought, don't make yourself financially dependent on anyone or you will fall flat on your face when things don't work out.
Good luck and sounds like you have a good head on your shoulders :)