The cost of living is rising all over the United States. Commuting to work is another layer of stress. But would you be willing to fly from one state to another each week for a job?
For one woman, Sophia Celentano, the stress is worth it. She hopes to make connections in her industry and land a full-time position.
“People who are completely qualified for positions and have degrees from top universities aren’t getting hired,” Celentano said. “They don’t have connections, and they don’t have internship experience.”
Celentano told her followers on TikTok that she commutes to work by plane with the caption, “Super commuting slay.”
She explained: “You might be wondering, ‘If you’re working 9 to 5, why the hell are you up at 3 a.m.?’ I am actually going to be commuting into my job one day a week. I’m going to be a corporate marketing intern for an advertising agency. The office I’m working for is based in the New York/New Jersey area.”
Where Does She Commute From?
While living with her parents in Charleston and flying to New Jersey for work is more viable for her financially, TikTok users chimed in with their thoughts.
“There is no amount of money you could pay me to wake up at 3 a.m. to commute,” said one person.
A second said, “Babe, I say this with respect that I wouldn’t even do this commute for a full-time position. I hope they hire you full-time.”
A third person expressed support: “As someone who worked in a different city as they lived, don’t listen to the comments, do whatever makes you the happiest!”
What Is Her Travel Schedule for Work?
Each Wednesday, Celentano flies from Charleston to Newark Liberty International Airport. Her arrival is 8 a.m., and from there, she takes a taxi to the office.
“The guy who founded this company is literally referred to as ‘the father of advertising,'” Celentano said. “So yes, maybe it is extreme to fly in one day a week to meet in-person expectations. But if that’s what I have to do to leave a good impression…to get a return offer at a really great place, then so be it.”
How high is the cost of living in the New York and New Jersey areas? Quite high, which is why Millennials and Gen Zers are living with their parents or splitting rent with roommates.
According to Newsweek, “The price of renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center of the Big Apple was reported to range from $2,500 to $5,000. The cost of renting a similar apartment outside the city center ranged from $1,800 to $3,500, according to Numbeo.”
Whether it’s exploring cheaper living options or embracing unconventional commuting methods, Millennials and Gen Zers are determined to forge their paths toward success in a competitive landscape.