City hopping

[yankeeyosh]

I have an interview just after the new year for another catastrophe modeling position in Philadelphia. This job would definitely be a step up...much more quantitative in nature. Also, the pay is about $10k more, which I think would give me a fighting chance to be able to own my own place (esp. since the cost of living is lower down there). Also, unlike other jobs I have interviewed for, I actually have the direct experience they want...nearly two years worth in this industry (and they are looking for two years, so it's not like I'm not underqualified and trying to shoot for the stars). So I think I might have a shot.

The thing is, I am concerned about the fact that I am tired of moving. For the first time in my life, I have a little bit of a social life with few friends who I hang out. Granted, I'm not in a relationship, so at least I don't have that issue. But I really don't want to give up what I have and have to start again (I have moved to different states six times since 2002). I would like to try to hang on in Boston, but my job is just getting to the point of eight hours a day of pure boredom...not to mention the fact that I see few jobs in this town that match my skill set. If I go to a different industry, I would have to start yet again at entry level and make less than I'm making now....which I absolutely refuse to do unless it was in a university or non-profit.

I am, of course, not guaranteed the job, but seeing I have weathered the storm for almost two years, I am 100% confident it's time for a change...but I don't know if I should try to scrap for any interviews I can muster up in this town, or look elsewhere...even if that means starting over again.

[ugarachel82]

Weathered the storm...hehehe...good figure of speech for your job. I say go for it. You can always keep in touch with your friends by phone/email/visits on national holidays. If it is meant to be, everything happens for a reason...all that jazz...

[sondra_finchley]

I had a similar decision and it came down to this:

Could i suck it up and pound through ONE MORE move if it meant being content at a new job with better chances for advancement and actually enjoying my work in a cheaper COL town OR I coudl just do nothing because I didnt want to move and continue to hate my life and rot in my job.

A weekend of moving stress definitely topped an indeterminate amount of prolonged job suffering.

[winneythepooh7]

I think you should at least interview if you have the opportunity.

[vivo]

if u come down to dc or balt u can stop off at the waffle house in elkton, md right near the de state line. there's also a waffle house in bethlehem, pa. well the col would be a little cheaper in the philly area with worse public transport. doesn't hurt to interview.

[spiritedaway]

If I were in your position (i.e. bored of job and looking for a change), I'd go for the interview first, get a feel for the area and then make your decision after you get the offer and had a chance to weigh the pros/cons.

There's no point thinking or worrying about moving yet until you have the offer in hand. One step at a time...Good luck!

[AsianGeek]

I don't know what the job market is like for your industry, but it sounds like you should first do some research to see if you can find something in your area so that you don't have to give up any of the two. But you should definately interview if the job will improve your quality of life.

[embrassezla]

Philly is a super fun city. If you think you might really enjoy the work, I'd say go for it! Philly is a very social city - lots to do.