Posted by Andrea Durway
Match Day – Moving to St. Louis
What is Match Day?
Every year in mid-March, tens of thousands of medical students tear open envelopes and learn where they will be completing the next phase of their professional training. This is known as Match Day. It’s exciting and can be stressful because approximately 45% of applicants will be moving to another state to complete their residencies and fellowship training positions.
If you’ve been matched to a program in St. Louis, one of the first orders of business will be securing housing. Relocating can be as stressful as beginning this next phase of your career.
Look for housing early
When you search for an apartment or house right away, you’ll have more options and improve your odds of being able to move in within the time frame you desire. All of the other people who matched to St. Louis will be looking for housing. You don’t want to run the risk of having to wait to move until after your residency starts when you will be extremely busy.
consider your commute
Having a shorter commute to the hospital will give you more time to relax between shifts and enjoy the amenities that may be near your new home. And if you are working long shifts, you don’t want to have to drive a long way when you are tired. Some actually do choose to move 15-20 minutes away because the commute gives them time to clear their mind after work. So think about what is most important to you.
- Tower Grove East Neighborhood Guide
- Central West End Neighborhood Guide
- Tower Grove South Neighborhood Guide
- Historic Shaw Neighborhood Guide
Renting vs. Buying
Many who came to St. Louis for medical training elect to stay in St. Louis afterward. Forbes recently identified St. Louis as a city where you can own a home for about $1000 a month. It often makes financial sense to buy instead of renting. Different banks offer mortgage loan programs for residents or new doctors that take into account your student loan debt. So ask about all the options available.
find the right realtor
Interview and find a realtor that is a neighborhood expert and really understands your specific needs. You can research online, but a realtor is going to have first-hand knowledge that can really make a difference in helping you find the perfect housing match.
create a support network
There are loads of cultural amenities and things to do in St. Louis. Exploring the city with fellow residents who are also new to town can be a great way to deal with the challenges of moving. And St. Louis has been getting a lot of recognition of late for its incredible food and craft beer scene. Food and Wine Magazine named St. Louis as the Fifth Best Place to Eat in the entire country. So connect with those in your program and check out all that St. Louis has to offer.
Summary
If Match Day has you relocating to St. Louis, we would love to help you navigate your move for medical school like we’ve helped so many before. We know the neighborhoods inside and out and will listen to your wants and find a home that matches your wants and needs. Contact us for more information on the area or check out 5 Things to Consider When Buying a Condo.
