Moving to the United States and starting your career as a healthcare professional can be an exciting time. As you continue to build your career, you’ll want to remember to take some time to enjoy life outside of work to foster a healthy work-life balance and explore your new surroundings.
When you begin looking for fun activities it might seem like everything costs money, but spending time with friends and family doesn’t have to be expensive. Here are some budget-friendly ideas to boost your social life in the U.S.
Visit a national park
With more than 400 national parks and historical sites across the States, the sightseeing opportunities are endless. Most of the U.S. national parks offer low-cost entry to visitors year-round and provide the perfect setting for a scenic drive, a hike, or a picnic. From the red rocks of Arizona’s Grand Canyon to the volcanic wonders of Yellowstone, a visit to a national park is truly a bucket list item.
Volunteer in your local area
A free day out is even more fulfilling when making a positive difference in your local community. There are plenty of organizations to get involved with: try community gardening, visit your local nursing home, or lend a helping hand at a soup kitchen. Volunteering is a great way to meet new people, connect with your community, and discover new skills and interests of your own.
Check your community calendar
Find out what’s going on in your town by checking your community calendar. Keep an eye out for free events taking place at local coffee shops, event venues, or even your nearest college campus. Whether it’s a concert in the park, an open mic night, or a chance to cheer on the local college sports team, your community calendar is the ultimate resource for finding free or affordable activities.
Start a club
Expand your social circle by starting your own club with people who share your interests. If you’re already a book worm, sports fan, gamer, or theatre lover, there’s no better way to indulge in your passion than alongside fellow enthusiasts. Establish a regular time to meet with your friends and spread the word at work or in your local community to encourage others to join. The more, the merrier!
If starting your own group sounds a bit overwhelming, consider checking out existing special-interest groups on the app Meetup, a social media platform for hosting and organizing in-person and virtual activities, gatherings, and events for people and communities of similar interests, hobbies, and professions.
Connect with your Conexus community
Conexus international nurses and medical technologists have access to a community of healthcare professionals on the same journey. Our Engagement Managers offer on-the-ground support and can give you new ideas of budget-friendly activities happening in your community as well as connect you with other Conexus healthcare professionals. This is a great way to meet friends and other families who are also building a life in the U.S.
International healthcare professionals who want to join the Conexus community and start growing their career in the U.S. can apply here.