Embracing a new city: My journey as an MIT spouse on an F2 visa and finding community in Boston

by Afnan Al Jahdhami (current MS&PC member from Tanzania)

I’m Afnan Al Jahdhami, and I moved to Boston in January 2024. Settling into a new city can be quite the adventure, daunting at first, but incredibly rewarding if you embrace the experience with an open heart and a willingness to connect with your new community. My journey from feeling like an outsider to discovering a supportive network has been a testament to the power of community and connection.

This move to Boston is actually my third major relocation. I’ve journeyed from Tanzania to Muscat, then to Scotland, and now, here I am in Boston. Each move has brought its own set of challenges and opportunities, but one thing remains constant: the importance of finding a welcoming community.

When I first arrived, the initial nerves of relocating to a new city and starting fresh were palpable. However, those nerves quickly gave way to a warm sense of belonging, thanks to the vibrant MIT Spouses & Partners Connect network. This diverse and welcoming community, which includes partners, spouses, and children from all over the world, has created an atmosphere where everyone can truly feel at home.

A huge shoutout goes to the wonderful administrators, Jennifer and Vika. Their dedication and support have been instrumental in making the group’s events run smoothly and in ensuring that everyone feels included and valued. Their tireless efforts have made it easier for newcomers like me to transition and find our place.

As most of you understand, with an F2 visa, there is a work restriction. While not being able to work has its own set of challenges, this period has offered me a unique opportunity to focus on personal growth and build a supportive network. My time with the MIT community has been rich with new friendships and personal development. Being involved with MIT Spouses & Partners Connect has been one of the highlights of my journey here. Even though my professional life has been on hold, I’ve found fulfillment through various activities and volunteer opportunities provided by the group.

I’m especially excited about contributing to the 2024 orientation. Helping welcome new members into our community is a wonderful way to give back and make sure others feel as supported as I did when I first arrived. It’s a fantastic opportunity to make a positive impact and deepen my connections with others.

For those about to embark on a similar adventure, here are some tips and advice that might help make your transition smoother:

Tips and Advice for Newcomers to MIT and Boston/Cambridge area

1. Jump Into Community Events: Attend local events hosted by MIT Spouses & Partner Connect, such as coffee hours, social mixers (English Conversation group and Language Conversation Exchange), and special gatherings like Miyuki’s famous Crafternoons. These are great for meeting people and establishing your network. Be sure to subscribe to the weekly newsletters to stay updated on upcoming events.

2. Stay Open and Social: Don’t hesitate to introduce yourself and join conversations. People here are generally welcoming and happy to help you feel at home. Remember, everyone was new once, and many are eager to share their insights and tips.

3. Discover Boston: Take some time to explore Boston and its famous neighborhoods like Beacon Hill and Back Bay. The city is brimming with history, culture, and countless attractions, parks, and dining spots. Familiarizing yourself with Boston will help you feel more comfortable and less overwhelmed. My favorite park to visit is the Boston Public Garden. Also check out the Esplanade on Charles river on the Boston side. Try MIke’s Pastry’s famous cannolis, and delicious chocolate babka from Bakey. Visit Newbury Street to treat yourself with shopping and different restaurants. Discover all the amazing museums like the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Museum of Fine Arts, etc. There is just so much to do in Boston!

4. For first-time MBTA users: Download the MBTA app or visit their website to familiarize yourself with routes and schedules. Before your trip, plan your journey using the app’s trip planner feature. Make sure to purchase a CharlieCard or CharlieTicket at a station kiosk or online for easy access to buses and trains. Most MIT IDs have the CharlieCard Chip included, you just have to add funds at the station kiosk. Pay attention to the color-coded maps for different lines, and listen for announcements while on board. Don’t hesitate to ask MBTA staff or fellow riders if you need help, everyone’s usually happy to assist!

5. Be Patient with Yourself: Adjusting to a new place takes time. Be patient as you find your way and remember, it’s okay to feel overwhelmed at first. With time, you’ll find your rhythm and your community.

6. Utilize Available Resources: Take advantage of the resources offered by MIT and the local community. There are support services, informational sessions, and resources specifically for spouses and partners that can offer valuable help and guidance.

7. Explore MIT’s Campus: MIT isn’t just about academics. The campus offers cultural and social activities worth exploring, including the MIT Museum and beautiful outdoor spaces. You can also explore Harvard’s Campus as it is fairly close to MIT.

8. Check Out Local Cafés and Libraries: Boston is famous for its charming cafés and historic libraries. Places like the Boston Public Library and local coffee shops are great for relaxation and meeting new people. I recently discovered the Beacon Hill |Books and Cafe on Charles Street and I would highly recommend visiting it. Another personal favorite and my go-to cafe is Tatte Bakery and Cafe.

9. Take Advantage of Free Events: Many museums and cultural institutions have free admission days or discounted tickets. Keep an eye on local event listings to make the most of these opportunities. My personal favorite apps I use to find out about these events are Joyraft and Eventbrite. Also find discounted tickets on MITAC, this will save you some bucks! Be sure to check all tickets from MITAC before buying it from the organization’s website.

For anyone about to embark on a similar adventure, know that you’re not alone. Embrace every opportunity to connect, explore, and engage with your new community. Your new chapter in Boston/Cambridge and at MIT is brimming with exciting possibilities, and there’s a welcoming network ready to support you every step of the way. If you find yourself in a similar situation, don’t hesitate to reach out and dive in. You might be surprised at how quickly you can find your place and form lasting connections.

Cheers to new beginnings and the amazing communities that make transitions so much smoother!