There are very few people that are able to avoid a certain task. People that manage to avoid this venture mainly do it out of fear. The quest, I refer to, is moving to a new city. It forces a person to acknowledge who they really are. Also, the inevitable sink or swim will take place. This task is not impossible. Finding your way in a new area will require a glass-half-full outlook. When one way of doing things makes you unhappy or uncomfortable, try something else. This task is not a task at all, it is actually living. It is easier than any skeptic may believe.

If there is a university or technical / vocational school, then look to see what it has to offer. There may be classes to take or public events to participate in. McNeese State University does not only reside in the center of Lake Charles, it is also connected to the community. Many majors offer in-field experience -- Southern Care Hospice for students in the medical field, The Children’s Museum for education majors, along with neighboring schools and many opportunities to meet with business professionals. To stay healthy, the Ward 3 recreation complex is free to Lake Charles residents, and offers workout classes. Once classes and work are over, there are many ways to fill up free time.

It can be through following all McNeese’s athletics or a simple walk by the lake. There are a host of parks in the community. The Literacy Council of Southwest Louisiana hosts art shows of different cultures, while the Imperial Calcasieu Museum has expos of national and international artists. There are even ways to become part of the entertainment. Lake Charles' Little Theatre and ACTS theatre have productions with cast members completely from the community.

There are also plays on the stage at the Literacy Council of Southwest Louisiana, along with art shows that feature local artists. Lake Charles has yearly events -- Chennault Air Show, Contraband days and The Family and Flea Market, to name a few. There is often a new business or restaurant opening as well.

There is much to take part in. Get involved, pursue your passion and be a cowboy!

In the event that you are new to any area you travel to, keep in mind there is usually a library and a history of the place. Researching the area may be helpful and spark an interest, otherwise not pursued. Dive into what your personal interests are -- sports, rodeo or eating. In the library research your interests locally.