Brittany Chang

Exactly one year ago, I decided to move from sun-drenched Southern California to the not-so-sunny-and-warm city of Boston to attend university.  This move did not come as a surprise to anybody who knew me; I constantly test the boundaries of my comfort zone and I relish the opportunity to embrace new experiences.  However, even I underestimated my ability to adapt to new environments, and making the move without the help of my supportive yet hands-off family and friends was a challenge I was not prepared for.  Here are some things I wish I knew and pieces of advice I wish I had heard before deciding to move across the country.

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1) Feeling homesick is inevitable.

I’ve always been an independent young woman.  Right before I boarded my plane to Boston, a week before university was set to start, I told everyone I was not going to be homesick.  Boy was I wrong.  The first night in my uncomfortable dorm room bed, mattress- and comforter-less because they had yet to ship in, I cried myself to sleep, texting a slew of regrets to my irritated but sympathetic father.  A week later, I texted my best friends saying I was going to transfer back home.  No matter how independent you are, you are going to miss home (or whatever you considered your previous living location).  The comfort of home is absent (but will always be there to return to).  Embrace it.  It’s just part of the adaptation and assimilation process.

2) The people around you aren’t there to spite you.

It may seem like the people around you are unfriendly and cold.  Just remember that your arrival to the city does not make you any more important than anyone else.  Don’t expect people to approach you with kindness; embrace positivity and show them kindness first.  You’ll make more friends by being proactive than if you sit back and pout.

3) Embrace your extroverted tendencies, or at least ‘fake it till you make it.’

It’s going to be hard to make friends at first, especially since you are way out of your comfort zone, but, the more friends you make, the sooner you will feel comfortable, especially if you find people you genuinely enjoy being around.  They can teach you the ropes of the city and keep you company while you find your own, unique footing.

4) Be ready for multiple Target and CVS runs.

You may think you packed everything.  You didn’t.  Be ready to spend more money than you thought, buying items you forgot you would need.  I’m talking specifically to you, college freshmen.  You need to start buying your own toothpaste.  What a concept.

5) Don’t expect your new home to be a duplicate of your last.

Your new city is not going to be like your old one.  You’re not even in the same state for crying out loud.  Don’t complain about the differences.  Embrace them.  Allow yourself to be surprised by them.  After all, when are you going to move across the country again?  No two places are alike.

6) Be ready for a culture shock.

Dear West Coast travelers moving to the East Coast: Salmon colored shorts and pink whales are going to be a thing.  Dear East Coast travelers moving to the West Coast: Pink whales do not exist.  Things are going to be different.  Instead of making fun of people for it, embrace your new friends’ sense of style.  You don’t have to assimilate in every aspect of your new life, but be open to mixing things up, too!

7) People are going to question why you decided to move across the country.  Don’t let it get to you.

I moved from Southern California to Boston.  Every time I tell a native New Englander this, they give me a weird stare and question why I decided to make the move away from warm beaches and good Mexican food.  Don’t let this get to you.  Your differences make you unique, and can provide interesting talking points about what makes each part of this country great. You may just inspire someone to visit your hometown!

8) Don’t leave your friends and family in the dust.

They have supported you since day one.  Literally.  Keep them updated because they will always be there for you, even after you move away; half because they are obligated to, and half because they truly do love you.  Also, don’t just talk to them when you want to complain and rant about your struggles.  Tell them about the fun you’re having and the cool experiences and encounters you get to have because of this big move.  Remember: not only do your friends want to see you succeed, they miss you just as much as you miss them, too!

 

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