My “Big Announcement”

This post is part of a series that highlights my move and eventual new adventure, aka life, in New York City.

There’s so many thoughts racing through my mind right this second that I’m not even sure how to start writing this. Let me just come right out and say it.

I’m changing jobs.

I’m moving.

I’m moving to New York City.

Now is the Time

I’m at an interesting crossroads in life. As a 30-year old guy I have no kids, no significant other and no hard ties at the moment. If I’m ever going to make a move of this nature now is the time, but have no doubt – the decision was carefully weighed and I’ve thought about it every way imaginable.

During the past several weeks I’ve discussed the opportunity with my closest friends, and mentors, all of which have said something like, “You have to do this.” or “This is perfect for you.” They knew that if the opportunity came to fruition that I simply had to take it – and that was my gut feeling from the very first phone interview.

There’s so much that I’m going to miss, but I also realize that the future is bright and that there are many great things to come.

The Company & Position

Let me quickly give you an idea about the new company I’m going to work for (I start June 1) and you’ll see how it’s a perfect fit.

In short, it’s an economic development and tourism marketing firm that has been around since 1960. They’ve done a great job at attracting a very talented workforce and I’m honored to be joining the team.

My job will consist of general marketing and public relations duties, but will have a strong focus on digital and new media. As I see it, the position allows me to use my professional skills to positively impact places… and that is an amazing opportunity.

I’ll have more to say about the company, and the position in the future, but I just wanted to give you an idea of where I’m headed.

Greensboro, North Carolina

I’ve lived in NC for most of my life and have specifically lived in Greensboro, NC for the last 10 years. It’s the city I call home and a place that I will forever have great memories.

It’s where I created JJ McCain. It’s where I changed careers at 26. It’s where I met incredible friends. It’s where I first ran for political office. It’s where I developed a deep sense of compassion and desire to help others. I could go on and on, but I won’t.

In making this decision, one thing I constantly kept going back to was the various things I’m involved with in Greensboro and initiatives that I’d like to see to fruition. I eventually had to come to grips with the fact that those thoughts, while important, were shortsighted. I’m still going to monitor several things that I’m passionate about for Greensboro, but will be looking on from afar.

Club Arlington

If you’ve connected with me on Facebook or Twitter, it’s highly likely that you’ve seen me post about “Club Arlington.” I’ve never really explained what it is, but this seems like a fitting time to do so.

It is in fact not an actual club, but more so a group of tight nit friends that are together a lot. These individuals are some of my favorite people in the world and I’m going to miss them tremendously (I’ll miss many others as well).

The fear of losing these friendships (and others) definitely played a part in my thought process, but at the end of the day I don’t think that will happen.

The Next Chapter

I’ve had an interesting life thus far, and this change will simply start a new chapter. You might say that I’m excitedly nervous, but I think that’s only natural.

Greensboro, NC to New York City is a huge change, but I’m ready to take the opportunity by storm and give it 100%. There will be much more to come and I look forward to sharing this adventure with you.

Oh, and before I close, let me ask that you do one thing. Take a moment and listen to Empire State of Mind (YouTube video link) by Jay-Z. More importantly, specifically listen to what Alicia says starting at around 57 seconds – that really says it all.

Thank you for reading my “big announcement.” Woot woot!

– Ryan