pick up and move?

[wagonproject]

I have been really considering just packing my stuff and moving. Anyone ever done it? If so what were the circumstances and how did it work out? I have been looking at Florida, Texas (loved Austin when I was there), And Arizona (Phoenix). I am 24, have about 10k. more if needed, to get me by until I can figure out things (job, housing, etc). I've been considering culinary schools in Florida. Though I know its not the best paying field, I would love to get more into the food industry.

 

[RTexasF]

When I was in my 30's I sold everything I owned, bought a tiny camper trailer made from a Datsun truck bed, and took off for parts unknown. I lived in San Antonio at the time. I saw/lived in many states and ended up in Alabama for ten years. DO IT or you will always wish you had! I don't regret one minute of it.

 

[mwoolfso]

I have been really considering just packing my stuff and moving. Anyone ever done it? If so what were the circumstances and how did it work out? I have been looking at Florida, Texas (loved Austin when I was there), And Arizona (Phoenix). I am 24, have about 10k. more if needed, to get me by until I can figure out things (job, housing, etc). I've been considering culinary schools in Florida. Though I know its not the best paying field, I would love to get more into the food industry.

You have the right approach so since you mentioned Culinary.... see/decide where you want to be in the culinary field in 10-15 years and based on that decision you should do some research and choose the city that will likely support you well. For instance, if you want to be a Master Chef you should select a city that is well represented in Zagat's Survey. If you want to own your own restaurant then the field gets significantly larger depending on what you want to offer. Job and housing will typically take care of itself over time. Good luck.

 

[light-bright]

As someone who did that 11 years ago I suggest not going to AZ. Things are rough all over, but I am doing everything I can to survive here or I will be forced to relocate again, this time I will be losing my house because I can't afford to keep it AND I can't afford to sell it. I know MANY people out here that have packed it up and left recently. Then again, I don't work in culinary fields.

I do say.... you need to get out and make your way while you are young enough to do it. I don't regret coming here as much as I regret my decisions while I was here.

 

[davidg]

I think it would work out well. Don't forget we are still somewhat in a bad recession though. light did what you are considering 11 years ago and texas some time ago as well. I imagine before 2006/7. Jobs are pretty scarce even for educated and motivated people. I didn't move away, just decided to go to school from a steady job and while I know eventually it will pay for itself; my wallet is really feeling it. Sacrifice is something you'll have to get accustomed to in order to live your dreams, but I see no problem in your intentions. I plan to wait until I'm finished with school and search for jobs before moving out of AL. Just a different way to get what we want and no wrong answers.