Moving away from support network - advice?

[drawn_inward]

I posted in the Summer Plans thread that I was looking at a East Coast school for a new position - it's honestly a lateral move for me. It's a step up for my wife. It is also in the heart of multiple universities and gubament labs. So, the idea is that it could be a spot for long term living, i.e. settling down.

However, it's ~1200 miles from my folks and siblings and friends. The new place will have zero family/friend support (inlaw or otherwise). Nada. This concerns me. I am one of the rare individuals that actually likes his parents. I didn't get along with my dad growing up, but now I would like to hang out with him every weekend. Right now we see my folks about once a month. We only see her folks once every couple of years (they don't live in the US).

I probably wouldn't be so worried if we didn't have a baby on the way (forgot my whelp...).

So, moving, new job, a baby...I am feeling a bit 'overwhelped'. I can see that is better for us in the long run. The job market just isn't secure here - not very many options. But, it's a scary decision.

Any advice? Anyone else had to make this move?

 

[strawman]

Jump in with both feet!

Moving outside your comfort zone is stressful, and you'll come to realize just how much you depended on and used resources and networks you built up in your old location.

It can help spur greater growth, and expand your horizons, though, which is rarely a bad thing.

You'll want to build new ways of communicating and interacting with your friends and family. I know some like skype and video calls, others text constantly, my parents call a few of their kids every week and just chat.

Also, bring this up with them and ask for their advice. They've probably had to deal with similar moves in their lifetime and their solutions might surprise you.

 

[drawn_inward]

I have been getting my mom used to using facetime. Skype is also an option. My dad said to think of it as an adventure. I nearly cried in front of my current PI when I told him the news. I am such a wuss.

 

[Cajungal]

Luckily, having a kid means you could have an easier time meeting people. You can probably meet a lot of new friends when you find out about day cares, schools, camps, etc.

 

[drawn_inward]

Luckily, having a kid means you could have an easier time meeting people. You can probably meet a lot of new friends when you find out about day cares, schools, camps, etc.

I'm sure we will. We've met both labs and all the folks are friendly and seem like nice people - so that's a good start.