What to Think About Before Moving to the US?

After living in the US for over 10 years now, I have observed a few things that make for a smoother transition. If you are considering moving to the US, here are a few things worth considering beforehand

1. How will you support yourself for the first 6-12 months? If you are not worried about money, your transition will be much smoother than if you are scrambling to find a job. One of the toughest hurdles will be finding your first job. Give yourself time to explore your options and having some savings will help you do that. 
2. How will you develop your support system? I hear so many people say that once they move to a new place, they avoid anyone who comes from their home country. That may not be a wise thing to do. The main goal is pick carefully and find a supportive group of positive people. You can start the process by building a network before getting to the US. If you do not know anyone personally, ask a few trusted friends for a few recommendations. Be specific about the type of people you would like to connect with. It is ideal to start making the connections before you arrive through email, facebook, skype etc. 
3. Where will you live? It is important to start looking for accommodation options as soon as you can. Find out the options in the city you will be moving to. If you have some connections, consider renting a room from them for the first 6 months. This will help you save some money and provide a smoother landing. It is important that you show good faith in making your payments or even consider paying for the first 3 months upfront to establish a trusting relationship from the beginning. 
4. How will you get around? Some cities in the US have great public transport options while others do not. Be sure to do your research before moving as this will help you determine where to live. If you are coming to school, consider living near the school if at all possible. It is also a good idea to contact the school with some accommodation options. Your international advisor will be a great resource and it is helpful to establish a relationship with them through email. 

America is a land of opportunities but it also requires working smart and working hard. Thinking about these questions will help you get started on the right foot and not get stuck living below your potential. This happens when people are in survival mode and start living from paycheck to paycheck without a a plan for the future. Find options that help you find a build an edge that will set you apart. Having the time to think about these questions will make it easier to explore your options.