First of all, if you are reading this and you are new to D.C. – welcome! Whether you have moved here for a job or a spouse, to escape something or to find yourself, being new to a city can be scary, overwhelming and lonely. While my four-month tenure in Washington has not made me an expert on the city, I do know a thing or two about being the new kid. This is the fifth city I have moved to knowing almost no one, and I have figured out a few ways to make the integration exciting and fun.
Go play something! There’s kickball, softball, ultimate frisbee…join a team and go play! Not a sports person? Neither am I, but no one cares that I run the opposite way when the ball comes to me. It isn’t about winning – it’s about meeting people and having fun. And after the game, go grab a beer with your team. You just might end the day with some new friends.
I know meeting friends online sounds a bit odd, but meetup.com has become somewhat of a lifeline for me. There are running groups, Spanish speakers, book readers, food and wine gurus; you name it and there is a group for it. Just choose an activity you enjoy and go meet some people with similar interests.
Last, but not least, you aren’t going to make friends sitting on your couch eating takeout, so go to every function, party or outing to which you are invited. Even if you don’t see yourself being friends with the person who invited you, you will meet their friends and be that much closer to finding a group of your own. Ultimately, I hope you find your niche here and fall in love with this city like I did.
— Margaret Lyons, Coordinator
