Leaving behind the familiar shores of the West Coast for the opposite East Coast was a significant turning point in my life. In the spring of 2023, I made the decision to embark on a new chapter in my life and invest in my future through the MSA program at the Institute for Advanced Analytics. Before moving to Raleigh, I had never even stepped foot in North Carolina.
The thought of relocating here was both exciting and daunting. Despite the uncertainties, I decided to embrace this journey with an open mind and heart, ready to take in what Raleigh had to offer.
These reflections encapsulate some of the most personally fascinating observations and insights I’ve encountered as a Southern California (SoCal) native navigating life in Raleigh, North Carolina.
1. People love their college sports.
In SoCal, while we appreciate college sports, many of us have a stronger inclination toward our professional teams. However, being here, I’ve noticed that people truly come to embrace and celebrate college game day as if it were a holiday. Tailgating is an absolute blast, creating a lively atmosphere before the big game. Experiencing the vibrant energy within Carter-Finley Stadium is a one-of-a-kind experience, with State fans and students always showcasing an unbeatable display of school spirit.
2. The food selection exceeded my expectations.
SoCal has always spoiled me with its incredible diversity of food options, but Raleigh has truly impressed me with its dining scene. Raleigh offers beloved fast food spots like Bojangles and Cookout to the rich array of choices along NC State’s renowned Hillsborough Street—featuring delightful establishments like Coco Bongo and Guasaca. The dining options here are limitless.
3. The nature is simply gorgeous.
Upon arriving in Raleigh, I was immediately struck by the abundance of trees in the area. Since settling here, my friends have introduced me to a plethora of parks, picturesque walking trails, tranquil creeks, and beautiful lakes. While SoCal certainly has its own outdoor charms, Raleigh’s natural offerings are equally impressive.
4. The weather can take some getting used to.
Summer in SoCal brings in scorching heat and dry conditions. On the other hand, Raleigh, though slightly less hot, can feel more uncomfortable due to its high humidity levels. Personally, I’m not a fan of the sticky, sweaty feeling that accompanies the summer heat. However, the fall season in Raleigh brings a welcome relief. In terms of rainfall, experiencing tropical storms here has given me a profound understanding of what rain truly is. Needless to say, I’ll never complain about the light drizzles we get in SoCal again.
5. There are plenty of leisure activities for all types of people.
Despite my initial concerns about Raleigh not measuring up to the recreational scene in SoCal, I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the abundance of fun activities available. A standout experience for me has been strolling through Dorothea Dix Park and taking in the beauty of the sunflowers with my classmates. During the weekends, grabbing a bite or drink in downtown Raleigh is the perfect way to unwind and reward oneself after a busy week. Moreover, trivia nights at Sammy’s have become a beloved tradition within our class.
In summary, my experience as a Southern Californian transplant in Raleigh has provided me with many fun adventures and an appreciation for the unique charms of this city. Looking ahead, I am immensely excited for more adventures and opportunities for growth in Raleigh. I am already certain that I will forever cherish the lessons learned and friendships made here in North Carolina.
Columnist: Danny Ta