Moving to a new city for a summer internship is an exciting adventure filled with new experiences, professional growth, and the chance to explore unfamiliar places. Congratulations on securing your internship! Now comes the time to start preparing to ensure everything goes smoothly. Whether you're feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness or you’re not sure of the steps to take in the prospect of relocating this comprehensive checklist is here to help. By following these steps, you can confidently navigate your move, settle into your new surroundings, and focus on making the most of your internship experience. Embrace the journey ahead with the assurance that you've got everything under control.
Research and Planning
☐ Research your destination’s local culture, climate, and cost of living
- Tip: A great resource to start with is your new city’s tourism board. Every city has a tourism agency. You can do a Google search to find the resources in your city
☐ Establish a budget for your summer stay, including living and transportation costs so you know what you can afford for your housing expense
☐ Connect on LinkedIn with employees at your internship company
☐ Join social media groups or forums related to your new city
Searching and Applying for Housing
☐ Determine which type of housing will best suit your needs: university summer housing, traditional apartment, or vacation rental sites
☐ Look for housing close to your internship location using the platforms that align with your choice of housing: Intern Housing Hub for university housing, Apartments.com for traditional apartments, or Airbnb for short-term rental
☐ Apply for housing as early as possible to secure the space you want while it is still available
Securing Housing
☐ Arrange virtual tours or visit potential accommodations in person if possible
☐ Confirm your housing arrangements and ensure all paperwork is completed
☐ Confirm your move-in date and key pick-up date for your housing
☐ Connect virtually with any roommates if you will be living with anyone in a shared space
- Tip: Get their email or find them on social media and send them a message to introduce yourself before you move in and meet them in person
Financial Preparation
☐ Reevaluate your budget, now that you know your monthly housing expense. Finalize your budget for rent and your housing’s payment terms, food, transportation, miscellaneous expenses, and entertainment
☐ Factor in relocation costs such as moving services or initial deposits
☐ Look for student discounts and financial resources to help manage expenses
☐ (Optional: This may be helpful if you currently only have a bank account with a small, local bank) Open a bank account with a national bank to avoid out-of-state ATM fees and to be able to handle any banking issues in person with a bank that has locations in your new city for convenience
Transportation Planning
☐ Determine the transportation you will use to relocate: Driving yourself vs family dropping you off vs flying
☐ Decide between driving and using public transportation for your daily commute
- Tip: Research parking availability and costs if bringing a car
☐ Familiarize yourself with the surroundings of your housing and internship location
- Tip: Explore your surroundings on Google Maps and search the Transit Authority website for your city to learn of the public transportation near you
- Tip: Identify the locations of your daily/weekly necessities: laundry facility, grocery store, pharmacy, bank, gym, and post office
Packing Essentials
☐ Pack professional, going out, and lounge clothes
☐ Pack hygiene items to use until you make it to a store to buy essentials
☐ Pack personal items that will make your new place feel like home
☐ Pack important documents such as your internship offer letter, government-issued I.D., and health insurance information
Logistical Details
☐ Forward your mail to your new address
☐ Inform your bank of your move to avoid issues with your accounts
☐ Ensure your health insurance covers you in your new state or make alternative arrangements
☐ Register for services as needed, like utilities, internet/cable, and others
Professional Preparation
☐ Review the company’s website, social media, history, and mission
☐ Prepare a work tote/bag with work essentials – notebook, folder, pens, and lunch or money to order food
☐ Set professional goals for what you aim to achieve during your internship
☐ Meet with your career services office or academic advisor to plan for your working engagement
- Tip: Set professional goals for what you aim to achieve during your internship
By following this comprehensive checklist, you can ensure a smooth transition to your new city and make the most of your summer internship experience. Taking the time to prepare thoroughly will help you feel more confident and organized as you embark on this exciting chapter of your life. From finding the perfect place to live to getting to know your new surroundings, each step you take will bring you closer to a successful and enriching internship. Remember, this is not just about professional growth but also about personal discovery and building lifelong memories. Good luck, embrace every opportunity, and enjoy your new adventure!
