geekgirl

Hello - I've just come across this forum whilst surfing the web. I was wondering if I could get some advice RE. moving to the US.
I'm going over to Massachusetts this month to visit a lab. that is offering me a job as a research scientist.
It's a great opportunity professionally, but I'm going to be going out there alone ( I'm 25 and single), and I'm a bit daunted by the whole thing.
Does anyone have any idea what living standards/costs in Mass. are. I'll be living in Worcester, not Boston. Also, how easy did you guy's find it to build up a social circle etc? Finally, how different are employment conditions in the US. compared to UK ( I'm leaving UK academia which is pretty laid back).
Sorry to ask so many nebulous questions, but I'd really appreciate any feedback/ideas you could offer me.

Englishmum

There are loads of young British expats who meet up regularly for nights out at the pub, barbies etc. who live in various parts of MA.

You can find them on the 'get-togethers' and 'Britnet' board here:

http://www.british-expats.com

Don't forget to introduce yourself and say 'hi' on the Introductions board (other posters can't reply there, they welcome you on the Britnet board)>

Good Luck!

jaytee

The brave are rewarded!

veryfunny

From one scientist to another, do the research and you will learn to adapt.

KimG

Hi there,
Small world - I just left leeds too, to postdoc in the states (CA). I've been here 2 months so far and its good fun. I think the experience of postdoc-academia here is far better than in the UK (which is pretty dismal at the moment!) so long as you fall on your feet in the right lab! On the west coast work seems to be fairly laid back, like I experienced in the UK. I have heard it's more competitive on the East, but haven't experienced it personally.

As for finding a social circle dont expect too much from your american co-workers. I have found (as have many other brits) that there isn't that much interaction out of the lab and it is very hard to meet and get to know any other americans. Having said that though I have met a large number of brits and europeans which works out great, and it seems most of the people in the labs, barring grad students, are european! So long as you are pro-active you'll have no problems.

All in all I am glad I have made the move. Its a good oportunity to live abroad and experience something else for a couple of years.

Now I just wish people could recognise I'm british rather than australian!
Kim

BrigieDarling

Holy Union Jacks batman.... I'm not banned anymore!

BrigieDarling

20 minutes later: "Why on earth did they ban me this time?"

Manc

What was all that about then?

BrigieDarling

Blowed if I know, I feel soooooo rejected!