When you are looking for that first job, it is important to give a lot of thought to what you want and need in that first professional paid experience and part of that consideration is where you would be willing to live.
People have environments that will and will not work for them and the environment you live in can affect how happy you are in a given job or contract situation. Consider initially whether you would want to live in an urban, suburban or rural area. Do you like a busy, active environment with lots of access to different activities? Or do you prefer a quieter, more low key environment with a lot of access to outdoor activities?
Access to transportation can be important. Do you want to live in an area where there will be considerable driving involved, and if so….do you have a reliable, economical car? If you are in an urban area, is there good access to inexpensive, efficient mass transit?
Are you willing to move to a place where you don’t know many people? Don’t immediately reject the idea of a great job that is located somewhere unfamiliar. There are many ways to build networks of friends and support, starting with other local MT-BCs. You can explore a location pretty extensively online, discovering clubs, meetups, and other gatherings — and even using Google Maps street view to see what it would be like to stand in a particular neighborhood. For some people, finding religious and spiritual institutions can mean an immediate “home away from home.” For others, a sports or recreation club can mean the same thing.
On the other hand, maybe you know that you won’t be happy if you are too far away from core family and close friends. You may love your job, but if you are unhappy and isolated it will eventually affect your work.
Climate can also be an important consideration. Some people do not do well in colder climates with a lot of rain and overcast skies as it affects their mood. Others find that they do not tolerate heat well. Give careful thought to the climate of the area in which you plan to live. Is this a climate you can tolerate for at least two years?
Consider also your political and religious leanings. Some areas of the country are more liberal; other areas are more conservative. Certain religious beliefs tend to be stronger in the southern part of the country. Given your own political and/or religious beliefs, is the area of the country you are considering one in which you can see yourself having a lot in common with others or not as much in common with others? You can find kindred spirits almost anywhere, but if your own beliefs are a great deal different than a majority of those living in your area, you may find yourself feeling more isolated. You may not want to be a trailblazer while navigating your first job.
Does the area of the country you are considering offer enough of the activities you are interested in? Are there healthcare and/or education facilities pursuant to your professional interests or that offer advanced education, should you wish to pursue that?
Finding that first job not only takes time and effort, but it requires a great deal of thought in regard to what will work best for you in terms of where you will be living. Taking the time to think through these points will give you a much better chance of ending up in a location where you are happy.