On September 16, 2010, the US News and World Report published a list of the Top 10 Best Places to Launch a Second Career. I was thrilled to see Madison on the list, as it has been my experience that this city is indeed a great place to start over.
I came to Madison in October 2008 knowing one person and having only a part time job (law school admissions consultant for Kaplan Test Prep & Admissions) to keep me afloat. I obtained some additional part time jobs along the way, and two years later, I have what is starting to be a thriving business. I have met an incredible community of business owners here at regular and diverse networking events. I have made friends both through social circles and business circles. I even worked part time for over a year at the University of Wisconsin Law School, where I got a job in the midst of a hiring freeze.
Plus this city is beautiful. Where else could I walk down the street for any of the following: a swim in the lake, a yoga class, a Thai dinner, a household item from the hardware store, and fresh local produce from the food coop or farmer’s market?
I agree wholeheartedly that Madison Wisconsin is a great place to launch a career. I can see why people don’t want to leave — I plan to stay put for a long time!
I love Mad Town. I spent many summers there at music camp. Feeling its time for a visit after reading this. Thanks
Do come and visit Diane!
I remember visiting Madison many times in the mid-80’s when I was dating someone long distance. What a beautiful city it was and I am sure it is even more so now.
Loved all the diversity and the accepting feeling there too! The people were really nice and the whole city had a great charm about it, yet was very metropolitan.
Just saw that the unemployment is in the 5’s, so even better!!
Thanks for sharing!
Michael
Sounds like a place I need to put on my list, definitely has more seasons than Arizona.
Can you recommend the best time of year to visit.
Laine D.
https://www.ThoughtsfromABroad.net
Hi Laine, yes we have a lot more variety season-wise than Arizona! I personally love the fall with all the colors and the crisp air. Summertime is probably the most popular time since we have lakes and bike paths and hiking trails (with attendant mosquitoes unfortunately). There are also many music festivals in town throughout the summer. Springtime brings blooming trees, and of course if you like the cold and snow or are a skiier maybe you’d like the winter!
What are your favorite things to do? The best time to visit would be determined by that!
Congratulations on having made a good hometown choice for yourself. I’ve lived all up and down the East Coast and as yet have not been happy with my location. I’m currently living in Fla and cannot wait to pack up and head out. This time however I have done some research and visiting first and have settled on N.C. I can only hope I end up as happy with my choice.