1. You're going to get lost... a lot.

And that’s okay! One of the best things about moving somewhere new is discovering new places, things, and people. There is a kind of bliss about not knowing where you’re going- some say that getting lost helps you to find yourself. If the idea of not knowing where you are freaks you out, just remember- you always have a GPS or Siri to help you find your way back to your new studio apartment when you’re ready!

2. There will be cultural differences.

Whether you’re moving a few hours away, a few states away, or a few countries away, there are going to be differences that you’ll have to adapt to. Maybe you’ll have to start using the subway, or ride a bike, or constantly hear different languages you don’t know, or switch up your morning breakfast because a McDonald’s Bacon Egg and Cheese biscuit entails a 45-minute drive through the city…being flexible is a good thing. Be open to the cultural differences around you- you just might end up loving them.

3. You will have financial strains.

No one- I repeat, no one- has moved to a new place and said that money wasn’t a problem. Heck, money is always a problem! However, when you move somewhere new, you’ll have to get used to new monetary expenses that you didn’t have to worry about before. The sales tax might be higher, you may have extra expenses on your apartment, and food costs may skyrocket. Maybe your old job paid once a week, but your new internship pays once every two weeks, and you have to learn to spread your money out over longer periods of time. It’s normal to be stressed about this- so breath, make a plan, write out a chart, and budget, budget, budget- it’s easier than it sounds, and you’ll be a lot happier knowing you’re financially stable!

4. Get to know people in your new area.

You might be clinging on to your friends back home, but remember, they will always be there for you when you need them. Don’t feel like you’re cheating on your friends by making new ones! In fact, if they’re good friends, they’ll be happy that you’re branching out and meeting new people. Go out of your comfort zone- talk to someone at a coffee shop, or go out with your coworkers to a bar- you’ll never know where you could strike up a great friendship if you don’t try.

5. Don't be afraid of being afraid.

There are so many people who turn down great opportunities because they’re scared of the unknown. It is scary, to move to a new place and not know anyone! You might be intimidated by the idea of being in a new area with no one and nothing familiar around you- I know I was. The first few weeks may be hard, but you’ll settle in to your new home in no time- and more likely than not, you’ll end up loving it just as much as your small town city that will always be there for a visit when you’re ready to return.