Kansas Alpha Lauren Wilk came to the Washington D.C. area for a college internship program and never left. Although she did not know a single person who lived there, she knew she had to take advantage of living in a big city. This is the advice she would give to any of us considering moving to a new city.

In a city like D.C., where you are compelled to be competitive and ambitions, Lauren’s parents reminded her to “be gracious.” She is a Trade Lobbyist by day, but spends her nights and weekends engaged with Junior League and as a member of the Pi Phi Nation’s Capital-D.C. Alumnae Club. Both groups focus on literacy, so Lauren has found a good synergy between the groups. It also allows her to find a balance between friends and volunteering and has been a great catalyst for trying new things, such as group visits to museums, exhibits and concerts. She loves trying new things, and in D.C. there’s always something going on.

When Lauren looked up the Pi Phi alumnae club in 2005, they were a brand-new club. She attended the first opening meeting that September. The women were friendly, nice and helped give her recommendations for where to get a haircut. She joined an interest group – which was an easy to get involved right away.

Lauren values having seen these women in their different stages of life over the last 11 years, from new to the city, new jobs, new significant others, baby showers – everything! “Funny how Pi Phi has played a role in such key moments,” Lauren reflects on. “Things change all the time so it is great to have people to go through life with.”

If you’re considering a move to a new place, don’t forget to reach out the local alumnae club. You may be surprised how much it can enhance your experiences during this new chapter in your life.