USF graduate Rebecca Daniels recently got an entry level marketing job in St Petersburg. After long talks with her parents and family dog Ruffles, she decided it would be best for her to move across the Howard Frankland so she could be closer to work.
She was forced to cut ties with her family and friends from Tampa forever as no one will make the 20-minute trek across the bridge to see her again.
One month after the move, Rebecca fills us in on the culture shock she feels living in St Pete.
“Other than the sunshine, St Pete is like a whole new world to me. I miss Oxford Exchange and Bayshore Boulevard which sucks because there is no coffee or waterfront views here.” Rebecca told us while standing in Vinoy park holding a non-descript coffee cup.
“Every single time I tell someone I just moved here within three seconds they ask if I’ve visited the Dali museum yet.”
“Making the move from Tampa to St Pete is really like moving to a foreign country. I have to start all over and learn the customs of the area.”
As our interview with Daniels progressed she moved from saying “St Petersburg” to “St Pete” to “the Burg.” I blinked my eyes and Rebecca was suddenly wearing an “I <3 the Burg” t-shirt.
Rebecca tells us all of her St Pete friends are above 75 and she spends her evenings enjoying early bird specials at Denny’s and winning big at shuffleboard.
As someone born and raised in Tampa, this is the biggest move Daniels has ever made. With a new job, new city, and total alienation from her family, it’s a wonder Daniels hasn’t cracked under the pressure. I guess she can’t afford to crack as someone in her friend group has to remember where the car is parked.
As the interview ended, Daniels gave a wave and told us she was off to go watch the sunset on the “number one beach in America.”
Sounds like this move was most traumatic. Bwahahahahaha.
Have a fabulous day. ♥