Moving to the big city because you were accepted into your dream college is beyond exciting. You worked hard and are finally ready to reap the rewards of your hard work. Living in the city offers so many different opportunities, not just for work, but entertainment as well. In fact, the possibilities are literally endless. As exhilarating as it is, there are still things you need to do to make the transition as smooth as possible. Major life changes, such as a big city move, come with their own unique set of challenges as well. That’s why it’s important to be prepared ahead of time.
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Decide Where You Want to Live
Unless you’re living on campus, want to live somewhere that provides easy access. If you’re moving to a big city like NYC, you need to research the different boroughs and choose somewhere that’s safe, walkable and is close to everything you need. You might love Greenwich Village’s vibe, but your school is in Midtown. That means that you’d have to commute on the subway or on bike every day you have classes. This also means you’ll have the additional cost of transportation to think about. If you’ve already accounted for travel expenses, then choosing this area might work out well.
However, New York is expensive, so you need to access to additional funds in case you need it. Aside from finding a part-time job, you could also think about getting a student credit card. Student credit cards can help you build your credit, help out in an emergency and may even offer lower rates. If you’ve never had a credit card before, it’s a good idea to learn as much as you can before applying. You should review a guide about all the different types of student cards before making a final decision.
Lean into City Life
If you’re originally from a small town, big city life can feel overwhelming, even if it’s where you want to be. If possible, visit the city before you move, so you can learn where things are and get used to having constant action all around you. If visiting beforehand isn’t possible, you can still research the area to ensure you aren’t shell shocked. Check out YouTube videos and watch virtual walkarounds to get a feel of living there will be like.
Start Networking
Most college campuses host meet and greet prior to the first day. Make sure you arrive a few days early, so you can attend and start to network with other students. Keep in mind that most of them are transplants as well, so they’re also looking to meet new people. You can also sign up for extra-curricular activities that you enjoy.
Find School-Life Balance
Moving away from and going to college is no small undertaking. You may start to feel stressed with all the changes, including your coursework, juggling a part-time job, and not really knowing how to meet new friends. As such, it’s important to balance entertainment and education and carve out time for yourself, away from all of the things on your to-do list, even if it’s only for a few hours.
The Urban Woman Magazine Editorial Team is made up of seasoned writers and editors who have a keen eye for detail and a passion for all things urban. We strive to create fresh, original content that appeals to the modern woman. Our mission is to provide a platform for women to share their stories, experiences and opinions on various issues affecting their lives.
