February 21, 2023
A few years ago, if you were to tell me I’d be trading in Chicago’s sweeping skyline, lakeshore views, and bustling city for Detroit, Michigan, I would have simply shaken my head in disbelief. What could a city like Detroit have to offer that the third largest city in the United States couldn’t?
However, little to my knowledge at the time, I’d end up falling in love with someone who lives in Detroit, and I would become a future Chicago transplant in the Motor City, swapping one river for another.
As I come up on my six-month anniversary of moving to Michigan, I’ve learned quite a few things about Detroit, starting a new job, leaving one you love, and making friends.
Comparing Detroit to Chicago is similar to comparing an apple to an orange. You simply can’t. If I could share one piece of advice to those considering moving to a new city, it would be to keep an open mind and to embrace new experiences.
Chicago and Detroit both have their own unique offerings and are designed to provide a different experience than the other. While I cherish Chicago’s bustling downtown area, cultural museums, and exquisite cuisine, I’ve learned that Detroit provides a more intimate downtown experience than Chicago due to its size. Exploring the downtown area is no longer a headache, and I don’t feel like I’m being swallowed by the masses.
I’ll admit it’s hard not to compare where you used to live to your new home. Sometimes I miss Chicago’s lakefront, skyline, and cultural institutions, and I get a bit sad knowing that I can’t recreate those places, sights, and sounds here in Detroit. When this occurs, I remind myself that each city was built to offer unique moments and memories you can’t experience elsewhere. Lean into those moments.
Thus far, I’ve had the pleasure of strolling along the Detroit Riverwalk – once again voted as the number one riverwalk in the nation – and taking in views of Canada. I’ve learned what a Coney Dog is (think hot dog, mustard, white onions, and chili) and that I do not care for them. I’ve explored Belle Isle, a 985-acre island park located in the Detroit River, complete with both an aquarium and conservatory. I’ve cheered the Detroit Tigers on at Comerica Park and ventured to the Ford House, Meadowbrook Hall, and the Detroit Institute of Arts.
As a native Chicagoan, I’ve even learned that pizza is good no matter where you travel — thinking of you, Detroit-style pizza. Most importantly, though, I now understand that Detroiters love their city and are proud to call it their home — even when it is seen as an underdog to outsiders. There’s a lot of pride here in Detroit, Michigan.
Starting a new job is always challenging, especially when you choose to leave one you love. I absolutely adored my last job, and to this day, miss the work and my colleagues. It’s been difficult to navigate those feelings and emotions while adjusting to a new role. One helpful tip is to acknowledge that you can both mourn the past while cherishing the future. It’s alright to admit that you miss something while also being excited for the new opportunities in your current role.
Change is inevitable, and it can be positive. Take advantage of the experiences in your new role and see how you can further build upon your skillset from your previous job. You can still miss former colleagues while creating new relationships with current ones.
If I’ve learned anything from my move, it’s that you’re bound to experience a mixture of emotions — both positive and negative.
When moving to a new city, it’s essential to form a support system from the start to fall back on when you begin to miss home. Although it may be uncomfortable at first, the best way to form new relationships is to put yourself out there. I’ve had luck spending extra time getting to know coworkers outside of work and trying new activities. Some ideas to form new relationships include trying a new exercise class or joining a gym, attending an event at your local library, or volunteering.
For anyone considering moving to a new city and starting a new job, I could not recommend it more. You will be greeted with new and irreplaceable memories, experiences, and moments. But, most importantly, you will learn that you are resilient and can adapt.
I’m thankful for the memories I’ve made thus far in Detroit, and I can’t wait to continue to make more.
Written by Sabrina Cynova, Digital Content Specialist at the Detroit Regional Chamber
