Photo credit: www.cntraveler.com
This article is part of Why I Moved, a series exploring the journeys of Americans relocating abroad.
Claire Foster, currently residing in Toronto, has always felt a pull to live beyond the borders of the United States. This inclination took her first to Paris, where she worked as a teacher, and eventually to Toronto in 2018, driven by the ambition to pursue her Master’s in English, specifically in Diaspora and Transnational Studies. On a Zoom call from the cozy confines of an independent bookstore’s basement, Foster reflects on her experiences; “I sought a life lived at a slight remove from home,” she shares. “For me, embracing the challenge of residing in a place where I wasn’t born has been integral to my worldview.”
Foster, who now works as a French literary translator and the general manager of Type Books in Toronto, emphasizes the enriching nature of life abroad. She believes that being part of a community with different cultural backgrounds adds depth to everyday experiences. She acknowledges the difficulties of immigration, particularly concerning visas and tax regulations, but maintains that the discomfort of adapting to a new life has resulted in meaningful friendships, personal growth, and a fulfilling career.
What motivated your move to Canada?
“I relocated to Toronto in 2018 to pursue my Master’s in English at the University of Toronto,” Foster explains. Upon graduating, she applied for a position at a local bookstore and started her career there in January 2020, right before the pandemic hit. Despite the challenging timing, she stayed on, and two years later, she became the general manager of the flagship store, overseeing events and operations for the three Type Books locations in the city.
What inspired your decision to leave the U.S.?
“Before Toronto, I was residing in Paris after completing my undergraduate studies at Skidmore College in New York,” she recalls. Originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, Foster’s experiences in Paris deepened her interest in living abroad, particularly as she engaged with high school students and discussed various aspects of American culture. “My experience in Paris solidified my desire to live outside the U.S.,” she adds. “I also recognized that pursuing graduate studies in Canada offered a more affordable option compared to the U.S., and the program duration was significantly shorter.” Political factors also played a role, as she felt that the political climate in the U.S. under the Trump administration prompted her desire to seek life elsewhere.
Did you move with family or friends?
“I initially moved with a partner, but we eventually parted ways,” Foster shares. They both resided in the same apartment and faced the challenges of navigating a new city together. The Toronto housing market, known for its high prices and limited availability, added stress to their search for accommodation. “Finding an apartment was quite intimidating, especially since we were new to the city with no local connections,” she explains. Ultimately, they chose one of the first places they viewed, which became their home for four years.
How did you navigate the moving process?
“Moving to Toronto was surprisingly seamless due to my status as a student. The university provided substantial support throughout the application for my student permit,” Foster notes. “Having my mother’s assistance also made the process smoother. After securing a work permit and its extension, I’m now on the verge of receiving my permanent residency card, which is an exciting milestone.”
What challenges did you face in your transition?
“The most significant hurdles revolved around navigating the bureaucratic landscape, particularly concerning immigration and tax obligations,” she reflects. Foster acknowledges that relocating, even from one English-speaking country to another, poses unique challenges. “The system often seems designed to discourage movement, compelling people to remain within their familiar surroundings,” she adds. Yet, Foster believes that persevering through the difficulties of immigration is worthwhile, especially for those exploring new territories out of political, intellectual, or personal motivations. “Taking the leap to reside in a foreign place, despite the inconveniences, embodies a meaningful pursuit,” she concludes.
Source
www.cntraveler.com