5 Things To Do As Soon As You Move to New York

By Jamé Jackson

As the capital of fashion, beauty and publishing, New York can immediately become overwhelming. Even Ed was once a fresh, scared newbie here (we don’t speak of that time). To adjust sooner rather than later, here are 5 things you should do once you reach the Big Apple.

1. Join A Social Group
The day I moved to New York, the first thing I did was join a Google GroupMe of other young publishing professionals. Though I’m a serious introvert (who else lives for solo Netflix dates?), I needed to get involved in a group that would share new things happening in the city, events and networking opportunities. Joining a group helps you know that you’re not the only one figuring it all out. (Plus, you never know where one interaction will lead). Check Facebook, Instagram, and ask the locals for various groups that you can join. (Insider tip: Ed throws awesome happy hours). Networking can be terrifying, but you’re bound to make a couple of new friends, which is how you find out about job leads.

2. Find Housing ASAP
Okay, technically this is something you should definitely do BEFORE moving, but when I moved to New York back in August, I brought a pillow and two suitcases, determined to make it somehow. If you find yourself couch-surfing, now is the time to pull out those contacts and join as many housing notification sites as possible (I recommend the New York Gypsy Housing page on Facebook). New York is notorious for expensive rent, and to many, the simple idea of housing alone deters them from making the move. However, only the strong will survive in the city that never sleeps; ask around and don’t give up. And here’s a secret: most “New Yorkers” don’t actually live in the city (Manhattan). Housing is way more affordable and spacious in the other boroughs and New Jersey.

3. Swap Out Your Wardrobe
You will soon realize two things when you move to New York. One, nobody ever looks “bad” (hey, it is a fashion capital). Two, the winters are harsh. You will quickly learn that you will travel an hour on the train to get to work, spend 8-10 hours there, and then head to a happy hour and then a function after the happy hour all in one day. Therefore, you need outfits that can transition throughout the day with you. Starting with some cute, trendy pieces from H&M, Zara and ASOS may be just the added kick your closet has been pining for. Hey, and while you’re there, go on and pick you up some thermals, and a huge, comfy coat. As the weather begins to drop, you’ll think you can face the cold like a #boss…and you will lose. Get those sweaters, boots, and heavy coat ready, kiddos…winter is coming.

4. Get You A Map & A MetroCard
You’ll soon find that money runs thin when you are catching cabs. Finding out how to ride the subway will be crucial to your survival. If you’re commuting at least twice a day, I definitely recommend  getting an unlimited MetroCard, which ends up being cheaper than paying per swipe. Beware of avenues vs. blocks, the speediness of walkers, and the fact that it will always take you longer than Google Maps says it will.

5. Invest In Some Good Shoes
As a good follow-up to point #4, you’ll need strong walking shoes. The fact of the matter is, we walk. A LOT. New York pavements are not really forgiving on the shins, so you will need to invest in some good shoes that offer great sole support. All those fashion bloggers that just seemingly step out on the streets rocking Louboutins? Yeah, lies. Most of what you see is staged advertisement (shhh, don’t tell them I told you), but the reality is good footwear now will save you a lot of physical pain later. No matter the brand, a good running shoe with strong ankle and foot support will literally work wonders. When heading to work, bring yourself a bag large enough to fit your heels or flats; then when you get to work, switch them out. Voila! You have your savvy work outfit—and your feet live to see another day.

Jamé Jackson is a freelance writer based in New York City. She loves all things fashion, beauty, and #GirlBoss related. She can be seen spreading her magic on Instagram @Theblondemisfit and her website, Theblondemisfit.com.