Stranger to a New City

Last September, I moved to Hong Kong. Like many before me who have moved by themselves, I got a job, found an apartment, and developed a routine. Moving to a new city can be intimidating and over the next months, I had to figure out how to feel comfortable and make the city my home.

No matter where you move to, the question remains the same: after getting a job, an apartment and a routine, how do you make your relocated city your home?

1. Get to know your neighborhood: Make the effort to become familiar with your neighbors and local stores. Granted, you may not be inviting your local baker or older neighbor over for a drink, but when you’re solo in a strange city, knowing that you’re no longer a complete stranger in your neighborhood can do wonders to helping you feel welcome.

2. Contact your alumni office: Chances are, other alumni have also moved to your new city. Check to see if there are any upcoming alumni gatherings – meeting like-minded people when you first move out can help you not only network but also allow you to feel there is a ‘place’ for you in the city.

3. Social networking: Meeting people outside of the university setting is a real change, and something I’m still trying to understand. Social network sites are a terrific way to discover just how many people are in the same situation: recently out of school, moved to a new city for work, and also moved out alone. Through these city-based network sites, I could join book clubs, hiking groups, and even gatherings of people looking to watch a football game after work. Not only did I meet people that later developed into friends, but I also met a lot of different types of interesting people and realized that I was just one of many in the same new situation.

4. Take life at your own pace: I can’t stress enough how easy you can become burned out if you dive headfirst and try to force your new city to become a home. I’ll never forget my first day – I was so intimidated with the list of things that would have to be done, that all I could do was unpack my socks. When you first move in, even the smallest steps can feel like tangible accomplishments. You will make your new city your home, but always be sure to take time for yourself to avoid becoming overwhelmed.