Databricks offers the exciting opportunity to relocate to one of our global offices and we are proud to say that we have been able to help our employees navigate through that transition. Learn more about Miles Yucht , a Tech Lead on the Billing …
So, I just did something that might make some people question my sanity: I moved across the world by myself at the ripe old age of 26! Yes, you heard that right. I packed my bags, waved goodbye to the Golden Gate Bridge, and hopped on a plane to the land of windmills, tulips, and apparently, a whole lot of bicycles.
Now, you might be wondering how this all came to be. Well, it all started with a job offer that felt like a scene straight out of a rom-com (minus the awkward meet-cute). I got the job offer of a lifetime, and just like that, my life took a plot twist that even I didn’t see coming. The company decided to move me from the bustling streets of San Francisco to the charming canals of Amsterdam. I mean, who wouldn’t want to trade tech startups for stroopwafels?
Packing up your life is no small feat, especially when you’re trying to fit your entire existence into a suitcase. I had to make some tough decisions, like whether to bring my beloved collection of quirky mugs or my entire wardrobe (spoiler: the mugs won). I also had to mentally prepare myself for the fact that I wouldn’t be able to take my favorite hiking trails with me, but hey, Amsterdam has its own kind of beauty.
After a long flight filled with questionable airplane food and a movie marathon, I finally landed in my new home. First impressions? Well, let’s just say that I was immediately struck by the sheer number of bicycles. Seriously, it’s like everyone in this city is training for the Tour de France. I half expected to be handed a bike as soon as I stepped off the plane.
My first night in Amsterdam was spent in temporary accommodations, which was basically a cozy little room that made me feel like I was living in a hipster’s Pinterest board. I was exhausted from the trip, but I was also starving. So, what did I decide to have for dinner? Buldak carbonara. Yes, you read that right. It’s a spicy Korean dish that I thought would be a nice way to kick off my European adventure. Because nothing says ‘Welcome to Amsterdam’ like a bowl of noodles that could potentially set my mouth on fire.
As I sat down to enjoy my meal, I couldn’t help but feel a mix of excitement and anxiety. I was in a new city, all by myself, and I had no idea what tomorrow would bring. Would I make new friends? Would I accidentally offend someone by mispronouncing their favorite Dutch word? (I’m looking at you, ‘gezellig’.)
But you know what? This is what life is all about. Taking risks, stepping out of your comfort zone, and embracing the unknown. Sure, I might stumble a bit along the way (and probably get lost more times than I care to admit), but that’s all part of the adventure.
So here’s to new beginnings, spicy carbonara, and a whole lot of bike riding. Who knows what the next chapter holds, but I’m ready to find out. Let’s see if I can make it through my first month without getting lost in a tulip field or trying to pet a windmill. Wish me luck!
Inspired by: “i just moved across the world by myself at 26” (r/GirlDinnerDiaries)