What to Expect When Moving From a Small Town to a Big City - Part One

This is part one of a two-part article on the experience of moving from a small town to a big city. We tend to think of Culture Shock as something that only affects us when we move to a different country. The truth, however, is that culture shock can occur even with domestic moves. And, the experience can be more impacting because you didn't expect it. Expats, in particular, often go through two sets of adjustments - one being a new country, the other being a new city.

One of the most obvious times that this type of double culture shock will occur is when moving from a small town to a big city, such as New York. I remember when I was in college, I had a friend from Peoria, Illinois. I still remember his fascination as I described my high school being five stories tall, and he said, "You mean, in New York, the buildings go UP?!" In his town, he was accustomed to buildings that sprawled out on one floor.

This is a perfect example at one of the first differences you may notice - building size, and height. Sometimes when I return from a vacation to a place like Arizona, even I feel momentarily claustrophobic in Manhattan. This is one of the possible impacts of moving to a big city - you may feel enclosed, boxed in, seeking out sky, and seeing only huge towers in every direction.

There is something about "the big city" that also impacts social behavior. In big cities, it is more likely that people will be in a rush. They may be late for work or an appointment, and their eyes are often cast downward, or straight ahead, focusing on getting where they need to go. People walk with purpose, as if there is not enough time. In a smaller town, people are more inclined to stroll leisurely. Time seems to actually move more slowly, and if you try to rush, everyone will probably have a nickname for you! People are also more likely to look one another in the eye, say hello, or at least smile, as they pass one another.

This brings me to another point - the experience of being known. In a small town, people look at you, and notice you. Even if you feel lonely, you're likely to find that someone will ask how your day is going, even if they are a relative stranger. You may even know and spend time with your neighbors, or store owners. In a big city, it's much more likely that you'll be isolated - it's a bizarre paradox, actually. There are so many more people to meet, but everyone is wrapped up in their own worlds, and don't seem to have time, so they are less likely to get to know you, and you can easily go an entire day without exchanging any more words apart from "Excuse me" and "I'll have a ham sandwich on whole wheat bread."

In Part Two of this article, I'll cover a couple of other experiences to expect, and give you some tips to make the transition process easier.

Are you in need of some helpful guidance transitioning to a new country? Visit http://www.culturetransition.com and sign up for a free newsletter, as well as access to a blog with ongoing tips about transitioning cultures.

From Heather Markel, Helping You to Feel at Home Anywhere in the World