From Miami to Manhattan: Adapting to a New City & Career Growth

Personal Reflections
Written By Victoria Verdeja

Original post: Stay Tranquilo

When I moved from Miami to New York, I wasn’t sure what to expect, and I didn’t realize just how many adjustments I’d have to make—both in my lifestyle and my work in PR. Here’s a look at how this move is shaping my career, my perspective, and why I’d make the same choice all over again.

From Traffic to Transit: A New Perspective

In Miami, my car was practically an extension of me, and everything felt a bit more… predictable. New York, though? It’s a whole new pace. I swapped my car for subway rides and endless walking. That’s been an adventure on its own—subway performers, rush-hour crowds, and all.

The culture shift was huge, too. The city’s diversity has been refreshing, though. It’s challenged me in ways I didn’t expect in the best possible way. It’s made me appreciate new perspectives I never really got back home, and it’s challenged me in ways I didn’t see coming.

Big Moves in the Big Apple

Moving to New York came with a lot of unknowns, but career-wise, it’s been a solid choice. I’ve worked with some fantastic companies—Republica Havas, Baptist Health, and Amerant Bank—and now, as Business Group Director at RXMD, I’m working in the heart of the PR world, handling clients in pharma and biotech. Getting promoted within my first 60 days was a real confirmation that taking this risk was worth it.

My work now is especially rewarding because of the clients I’m working with. They’re focused on making a difference in addiction recovery and cancer treatment, which gives me a strong sense of purpose. Being able to help tell their stories to people who need these solutions reminded me why I do what I do.

The Changing PR Landscape: AI and the Impact of “Virality”

The PR world is transforming, and faster than ever. AI tools like ChatGPT have completely shifted the way we work… what used to take hours can now be handled in minutes. It’s allowed us to be more strategic, but it also means the industry is moving at an even faster pace. While AI saves time, it’ll never replace the human side of PR.

Then there’s the power (and risk) of going viral. Virality can bring amazing exposure, but cancel culture means one mistake can haunt a brand forever. For me, crisis management and understanding public sentiment are more crucial than ever. Being proactive and considering all possible interpretations is part of the job in today’s PR landscape.

Choosing Growth Over Comfort

Moving to New York wasn’t easy. I left a comfortable life in Miami for a place that’s much more intense, but I’ve learned that’s exactly where growth happens. I’m glad I made the leap because it’s pushed me out of my comfort zone in a way that I needed.

What “Stay Tranquilo” Means to Me

Staying tranquilo is about staying grounded and true to myself while going after what matters. It’s about being ambitious without losing sight of who I am and knowing how to keep steady no matter where I am. That’s been my key takeaway from this move—embracing change and staying focused.

Thanks for following along, and if you’re thinking about taking a big risk in your career or life, go for it. You might just surprise yourself.



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Victoria Verdeja
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