Truths and challenges of moving to another city
I am spending the summer interning in Milwaukee. Moving to a new city for the summer has its ups and downs.
We all fantasize about traveling the world and seeing different places. So when you finally get your dream internship or job in a different city, it is exhilarating yet a bit daunting. In truth, once you move and begin adapting, it’s not at all scary. That’s not to say there aren’t any challenges though.
- The sweet taste of independence fades. Many commuter students who are stuck living at home are yearning for the day that brings freedom away from parental control. However, once out in the “real world” the thrill of getting to do whatever you like wears off. In fact, you may even find yourself seeking more structure out of the lack of authority because admittedly, it can be scary venturing solo into the maze of choices.
- You’ll feel lonely. There will be times where you will simply be missing something or someone. It is normal to feel homesick when you are in an unfamiliar environment where you know no one. You can always call home or save up to visit on a weekend or holiday, but make the effort to get to know your neighbors, coworkers and people at events you attend.
- It’ll be a different kind of routine. This will be an exciting new episode in your life, but keep in mind that just as any other chapter in your life a book, the beginning becomes the middle. During the school year your routine might revolve around a comforting cycle: wake up, go to school, work a few hours, homework, sleep. When you move to another city and you are only working full time or interning, what do you want to do after work?
- Money. If you were previously supported by someone in any way, now that you are in a different city you will realize how big the contributions family and friends make towards your life, such as giving you free rides or cooking for you. Out on your own, this costs money. You will have to make slight changes to your spending habits in order to make sure you have some of your check left over for savings and emergencies. This is the time to learn how to trim coupons!
- You’ll learn to take care of yourself better. Being on your own far from family and friends means getting sick will not immediately entitle you to chicken noodle soup or someone checking in on you. Slowly, but surely you will look out for yourself more and pay attention to things you took for granted back at home such as taking public transportation, watching what you eat, and wearing more clothes if it is cold out.
Paulina Rico-Juarez is a third-year computer science major, minoring in business administration. On campus, she is involved in the Honors College, Her Campus, LABS and SIG-Android. A Chicago native, Paulina is fluent in Spanish and Chinese and has assisted a bridal designer in Beijing. In her spare time, Paulina loves to Bollywood dance, run an online shop and write her personal blog.
