No one really understands the saying “there’s no place like home” until you officially leave home. A month and a half after graduating College, my boyfriend and I moved…and not across town, but across the country. I am from Indiana, and boy was it a culture shock moving to Billings.
I already know what you’re thinking… “Isn’t Indiana just a bunch of corn fields where race car drivers drive around in circles?” That's not even close. I grew up in the suburbs 40 minutes outside of Indianapolis and have pretty much only been exposed to a city lifestyle. Just picture Paris Hilton in episode one of “The Simple Life” and that pretty much sums up my first week here. I won’t lie, it was not easy for me at the beginning. My mom is my best friend, and moving away from her was easily the hardest thing I’ve ever done.
To be totally candid, it would get lonely here and there which I feel like is expected for anyone who moves away from home for the first time. However, one thing you should know about me is I always keep myself busy. I like to think I get it from being a very dedicated hard working person, but if we’re being honest it’s probably just my ADHD making its forever debut. At the end of the day, I knew it’d get easier as time went on, and let me tell you- I was right.
My first job out here was at the wonderful BHCC (Billings Hotel & Convention Center) where I was a hotel front desk agent. A few months in, I was approached by a Line Producer to be a Production Assistant for a movie being filmed in Billings (I am not going to say the title of the movie, because I signed an NDA and don’t really feel like getting sued). However, I will say it was a very cool once-in-a-lifetime experience and I will forever be grateful for the opportunity.
Joining the movie crew was the first time I have ever truly done something for me, and that alone was exhilarating. I feel like the best part of growing up is that it never stops and you realize your opportunities are endless!
Once the movie ended, I finally had the courage to jump into something I had been thinking about for awhile…starting my own digital marketing agency. Half way through filming the movie, I had already had a few companies reach out to me about my social media services, so it all kind of fell into play. At the same time, I also decided to take on a part-time job at a home decor store called Made For Home by Hannesson Home. I graduated with a degree in Event Planning, Marketing and Hospitality, so a job where I can decorate all day long is like a dream come true.
Some may say all of this was luck, but I know I manifested it. From day one of us arriving to Billings, I have been publicly documenting our cross-country move on my Instagram account. It mainly started because I wanted to keep my friends and family updated 24/7 on my new life. However, now, it’s semi-transitioned into a great way for me to connect with others. Basically, every job offer I received while living here was based off of my Instagram and how I would shoutout local Billings shops and areas. Remember, I love marketing and hospitality so I could promote a city for free all day and night. Especially since it keeps me busy.
With that, I know how important it is to make friends when you move so my biggest tip is to simply get out! I joined a yoga class because I knew that would force me to be in a room full of strangers. Sometimes it’s about pushing your comfort zone outward so you can really embrace what's inside.
Another take away, is if you can be anything be kind. You may run into some of the nicest people, and you may run into some not so nice people. You need to remember that that’s a part of life, and to not ever take it personal. You just keep rockin’ it, keep that positive mindset, and focus on your successes!
Lastly, even though Billings is a tight community; it’s a welcoming town that gives off small world vibes. It’s great to get to know the people and experience it in full. Whether you’re visiting or staying long-term, I hope you have a fabulous time here. Welcome to Billings!
