Alison’s got some tips for beginners in New York City.
Like many graduates, University of Richmond alumnus Alison Schaffir found herself in a new job and a new city after graduation. She hoped to find the same kind of welcoming community as she did in college and immediately toured Common homes in New York.
Alison moved into her home in Ridgewood after seeing the space, started her job at Ann Inc., and the rest is history. Find out what she’s got to say about coliving and the neighborhood.
First things first, introduce yourself!
Hi! My name’s Alison, and I just moved to New York City in the fall. I was raised in Columbus, Ohio and recently graduated from the University of Richmond, where I majored in Business Administration and minored in Psychology. Right now, I am working as a Social Media Coordinator at Ann Inc., a specialty retail company headquartered in Manhattan.
Why did you choose to live at Common?
Common was actually the first housing option I toured when moving to the city, and I knew right away that it was the place for me. The process was efficient, the living space was beautiful, and all I needed to bring with me was a single suitcase. The idea of moving to a new city, where I knew few people, seemed especially daunting at first. Thankfully with Common, I knew I had found a similar community-feel to my university’s experience, as I began the transition from student to working professional.
How would you describe coliving to someone who had never heard of it before?
Good question. I would describe coliving as the perfect transitional living arrangement: similar to an “elevated” version of a college apartment, but for adults living in the real world! Suitemates share a common living space, and the homes come fully furnished with all the necessary amenities.
What distinguishes coliving the most for me, though, is the greater sense of community established because you have the opportunity to get to know your neighbors on a personal level through coordinated events and activities.
You moved to NYC less than a year ago — what was/is the biggest adjustment? What tips would you give to someone who wants to move here?
Don’t worry…I’m still in the process of figuring it out, myself. In the meantime, here are a few of my go-to tips for acclimating to NYC like a pro:
- Prepare for everything to be 100x more expensive than you think it will be. Budgeting will be your best friend.
- Learn the lingo: train, express, local, uptown, downtown…all that good ol’ transit jargon.
- Figure out where to find public restrooms and outlets for charging your phone. It might just save you from some close calls.
What’s the best part about living in Ridgewood?
What I especially like about living in Ridgewood is the quieter, more residential feel, which is a juxtaposition to city life. I love spending the weekends exploring these areas, popping into local shops and adventuring around the neighborhoods. Manhattan can be overwhelming at times, so it’s nice to live somewhere that is slightly removed yet still an easy commute.
What’s been your favorite community event? Why?
Hmmm, tough decision. From pop-up museums and live cooking demonstrations to wine-and-paint nights, it’s hard to choose just one! I would say my favorite event thus far would have to be Common’s day-trip to Coney Island. It was a blast riding rollercoasters, eating Nathan’s Famous hotdogs, and walking along the boardwalk. The trip coincided with Halloween, so I even had the chance to witness a dog costume parade, which was adorable!
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Double tap if you’d like to be eating breakfast in this cozy kitchen nook at Common Fairview. ☕️
Move to Ridgewood, and become Alison’s neighbor! You’ll fall in love with the neighborhood, member perks, and New York City from the convenience of your Common home, just like Alison. Take a free tour today.