2023 has been an incredible year for me. A fabulous job with the City of New York, a gorgeous and spacious apartment in Hells Kitchen, and a group of new fabulous friends to add to my already outstanding companions. When I started looking for a new job at the beginning of the year, I was trying to keep myself open to all opportunities. I applied to a position based in Paris France for an International Organization that does good in the world. I had my interview with them in March and I thought it went well, but they informed me the start date wasn’t until December 1st. So, I continued to search for a job where I could shine professionally and be happy with what I was doing. I got very lucky and got a great job with the city of New York, a fantastic boss and awesome colleagues.
A couple weeks ago I got a call from the International job in Paris offering me the position. I was in total shock, as I forgot all about applying and interviewing months earlier. I had to talk this decision over with many people, but ultimately, a full time, permanent position in Paris where they sponsor my visa could not be turned down. I spoke to my boss about the offer, and she was wonderful and encouraging. So I was able to give my notice without guilt. I am very sad to be leaving my job, my friends and my apartment in NYC, after I feel I have finally made it successfully here.
Paris is, however, my home and where my heart has been for ages. So, that left me with 3 weeks to pack up, donate, sell, and discard all of my belongings I have accumulated over the years. I notified my friends in Paris and excitedly let people know that I would be permanently moving to Paris. Obtaining the Visa was the most stressful part for me, i had to take an overnight bus to Washington DC to drop off my application, and was told it could take 15 days to process. Patience has never been a strong trait of mine. It’s the Type-A personality where I expect everyone around me to try to work as hard and efficiently as I do. Cut to my visa being delivered on Black Friday. Later than expected, but just relieved to have it. Of course, that now diminishes my time to get acclimated back to Paris, but it’s Paris, so I’ll be good.
My new boss seems great already from our video chats, emails, and calls. I have very high hopes that this will be a great job where I will be happy, and want to stay for a long while.
I write this blog while sitting in the Air France lounge at JFK sipping wine and waiting for my facial appointment. I will land in Paris around 10:45am tomorrow, and the following day start my new career. I have told people all along how excited but nervous I was, but now that I’m about to board and head over, I’m feeling more at peace. I’m ready for this new and thrilling chapter of my life to begin, and I hope it will be everything I’ve always dreamt. As I’ve said for years, Paris is my home, I do love it, and I hope my friends and family will come visit me so that I can show them why I adore Paris so much. Until my next post, Au revoir 😘
Kevin Nicholas Gavit 