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Old 08-26-2007, 12:35 AM
 
20 posts, read 64,067 times
Reputation: 15

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I am a 22 year old college graduate who has had my heart set on living in a city. I would be by myself (no friends/no family), most likely looking to live with a roommate(s), and most likely looking for an entry-level job with a Bachelor's Degree. College was amazing and the best times of my life. But I'm not looking to settle down yet. At all. I'm still ready to experience so much and be YOUNG!

I have heard over & over again how expensive, dangerous and "it's NOT sex & the city" living in a city, like Chicago is. NYC is extremely too large and fast-paced for me, but I think I'm still interested in a CITY, nonetheless. I am desperately looking to meet other young professionals like me, entertainment and a good experience for my 20s, especially my early 20s, as a single. Can anyone offer the realities (cost of living, career opportunities, expenses, transportation, making friends, nightlife) of living in Chicago for 20 somethings in my same situation???

THANK YOU!!!!!
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Old 08-26-2007, 07:52 AM
 
Location: Midwest
1,903 posts, read 7,904,557 times
Reputation: 474
Prepare to get down on your knees for a job. Chicago employers are jerks.
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Old 08-26-2007, 09:22 AM
 
Location: Chicago
2,467 posts, read 12,253,759 times
Reputation: 897
Quote:
Originally Posted by M TYPE X View Post
Prepare to get down on your knees for a job. Chicago employers are jerks.

Wow. Don't listen to him. What kind of job? I moved to Chicago when I was 21 and LOVED it!!! There are plenty of good neighborhoods where you can live that are not "dangerous." There are also a TON of good ways to meet people. I can also say that after living in Chicago for 5 years, I went to a few clubs in Andersonville and still met about 10 new people in a night. Expenses, you would need to plan for at least $700-900 in rent (can be more if you want a REALLY nice place or less if you find a roommate). If you don't know anyone, you could try to find a roommate through craigslist or something. Other expenses include gas (for heat...unless you find a place that includes it, can be about $100/month), electricity, cable/internet (if you want them), parking if you have a car, public transportation (About $75 for a monthly pass).....food, going out, etc. Nightlife is great and there are a ton of ways for a young, single girl to meet people!!! Bottom line, if you want to do it, go for it and don't let others disuade you.
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Old 08-26-2007, 04:41 PM
 
20 posts, read 64,067 times
Reputation: 15
thanks jessiegirl for the response. i appreciate it. I am in the journalism/communications industry. When you moved, did you find a job and then move - or - did you move and then find a job. I guess I don't have much connection to the city right now. I'm having issues with my parents about moving without a job (financially dangerous) and my chances of getting an interview/interviewing without living near the job to being with. Any past experiences of friends who have made the transition?
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Old 08-26-2007, 08:07 PM
 
Location: Chicago
2,467 posts, read 12,253,759 times
Reputation: 897
I actually moved for graduate school, so it wasn't an issue. I do have several friends who secured jobs before moving (before graduating), as well as those who came without a job (key being, they had financial support). I'm sure you can find a job, but it wouldn't hurt to start looking now and say that you are in the process of moving. You could even look for a "filler" job (food service, retail, etc) if to hold you over until you get to chicago and find a job. Look in the chicago tribune, craigslist, sun times, and the chicago reader
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