Jessielee
5/14/2017 22:57 EST
Hey all!
So I'm a 21 year old female and although I've grown up in New York with my mother, I was born in Trinidad. I normally visit my family there once a year and always have a great time. Recently I've really been thinking about moving back to Trinidad (for 6months-1year) but there's a few things holding me back. On the upside, most of my family lives there and would be supportive of me moving. My question is will it be a step forward or back in my life? I just finished my associates degree and there are so many opportunities in NY, yet I don't feel passionate about any careers. I've been in a relationship for over 4 years and I know long distance would be hard if I moved. We plan to buy a house together (possibly in NY or FL) but need to save up money. My stepmom runs her own business and would let me work with her in a heartbeat but If she writes me a paycheck will it only be equivalent to $TT? I'm aware I'm going to stick out like a sore thumb both because of my accent and my fair skin, but is that something I would just get use to? The crime situation does worry me but should it be a deciding factor in my choice? Lastly, would I be penalized for staying there for an extended amount of time with a US passport, even if I was born in Trinidad? This is a big decision for me and I want to take the opportunity while I can, but is it a good path to take? If anyone has any advice I'd be grateful to hear it!
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stephylynn
6/13/2017 17:57 EST
I would suggest you do a trial period of 3 months. Your US passport will allow you to stay 3 Mo at a time. As far as working, it will not come as easy as you think. I have a friend in TT with a phD struggling to find work. The economy isn't strong, and it's all about who you know. Also, you would have to apply for a work permit, which is a waste of time. In order to receive a work permit, an employer has to prove there isn't a native capable of doing the job.
You mentioned you were born in TT..Do you have citizenship? That will eliminate needing to apply for a work permit and coming back to the states every 3 Mo.
If your stepmom hires you, it will most likely be in TT currency. It is hard to come across USD. Be prepared to get paid waaaayy less than what you will in NY.
Also consider where you will be staying and how you will be getting around. Cars are expensive. Traveling is an option, but you will really need to know where you are going and what you are doing. I would not suggest traveling at night on your own.
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 Let the Adventure Begin! is our premium weekly relocation newsletter that guides you step-by-step through your international move. The weekly newsletter begins 8 months before your move and runs through your first 4 months abroad. For US $29.99, you'll receive an e-mail on Wednesday with tips and advice tailored to where you are in the relocation and settling-in process. SUBSCRIBE
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kenwyn
6/13/2017 17:42 EST
Many Trinidadians can be small minded people with limited vision and depth. As much as they are welcoming and warm they also do not open up to new ideas and people and live with a village mentality.
Having family is good but it seems to me a waste of your time to want to come here for anything more than an extended vacation.
Frankly speaking most in the non- expat community wont accept you except for what they can gain from you, and will marginalize you due to your accent and looks.
They wont say anything to your face or overtly but you will get the undertones soon enough.
Regarding study please continue your career there and don't waste your time trying to pursue a career in Trinidad. Politics is involved with everything and meritocracy is out the window. Its not enough to be smart or gifted in your particular field. You also have to create Political connections to get anywhere in Trinidad society.
My advice (2 cents worth) is to take some time and visit kick back a little, clear your head, straighten out your priorities, then go back to the USA and work hard to realize your goals.
I am not saying that Trinidad is a bad place but i am not saying that it is a good place either. You are too young to be thinking about marriage. Career first, Marriage later.......as i said 2 cents worth.
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kenwyn
6/13/2017 17:41 EST
Many Trinidadians can be small minded people with limited vision and depth. As much as they are welcoming and warm they also do not open up to new ideas and people and live with a village mentality.
Having family is good but it seems to me a waste of your time to want to come here for anything more than an extended vacation.
Frankly speaking most in the non- expat community wont accept you except for what they can gain from you, and will marginalize you due to your accent and looks.
They wont say anything to your face or overtly but you will get the undertones soon enough.
Regarding study please continue your career there and don't waste your time trying to pursue a career in Trinidad. Politics is involved with everything and meritocracy is out the window. Its not enough to be smart or gifted in your particular field. You also have to create Political connections to get anywhere in Trinidad society.
My advice (2 cents worth) is to take some time and visit kick back a little, clear your head, straighten out your priorities, then go back to the USA and work hard to realize your goals.
I am not saying that Trinidad is a bad place but i am not saying that it is a good place either. You are too young to be thinking about marriage. Career first, Marriage later.......as i said 2 cents worth.
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