Down on my luck, or something (Chicago, Columbia: section 8, apartments, for rent)

[optimisticky]

I moved here from Michigan in July and haven't been able to find a job or an inexpensive apartment or anything, which I suppose is as it should be. Look, I mean, I've pounded the pavement looking, but at twenty-one, I'm not seeing the bigger picture. They say opprotunities are endless, though. Which is good.

I just need to know whether there aren't insider secrets to this place -- unlocking Chicago cool. I've tried working with Columbia College, hoping they could help me get on my feet before the Spring classes began, but no such luck.

Anyway, I don't mean to spread my negativity. Ha. Thanks a lot, everyone.

[jessiegirl_98]

My question is what is your question?

[optimisticky]

Originally Posted by jessiegirl_98

My question is what is your question?

Granted, I might not have one. I guess I just wanted to know whether there was a way to circumvent Section 8, or whatever. Section 8 sounds like one of those government testing services. Have you ever seen Ghost In The Shell? They're from Section 9. It's too numeral.

[erin.bean28]

Originally Posted by optimisticky

Granted, I might not have one. I guess I just wanted to know whether there was a way to circumvent Section 8, or whatever. Section 8 sounds like one of those government testing services. Have you ever seen Ghost In The Shell? They're from Section 9. It's too numeral.

There are thousands of people waiting on section 8 that have been on that list for 2+ years! If there was a way to circumvent section 8 believe you me plenty of people would be doing it and a lot of needy people (some families with children) waiting on that list wouldnt get the housing they do desperatly need.

I am 21 years old and I understand that locating a place to stay is really hard, have your tried finding a roomate? Bunking up with a whole gang of people really helps cut the cost of day to day living (all pitching in on rent/utilities/food etc.) It isnt the ideal situation, everyone would love to have their own place but sometimes you have to make do with what you have.

As for the job situation, I dont know what your resume looks like but loyalty is the best way to get yourself bigger paychecks. You're going to have to start off working retail or at a supermarket and its going to suck! But if you do a really good job and stay there for a year or longer the next job you get will be so much better and your hourly rate will go up! I started working at Stop and Shop when I was 15 (which is when I started living on my own) and now I am an Administrative Assistant making $30k a year at 21 years old putting myself through college. Just stay positive and learn to settle for a little bit less than what your ideals are.

Trust me life has a way of working itself out! You just have to want it enough.

[CarolinaBredChicagoan]

Yeah. So where are you looking for apartments? Where are you looking for jobs? With some of that info, we might just be able to help you out.

[jessiegirl_98]

Actually, the waiting list for section 8 is even closed now....

[optimisticky]

Originally Posted by CarolinaBredChicagoan

Yeah. So where are you looking for apartments? Where are you looking for jobs? With some of that info, we might just be able to help you out.

I'm looking, er, in the South Suburbs and in the city of Chicago itself and I'm not picky, either. I've tried gas stations, seedy neighborhoods, Starbucks; nothing's come through. I've had two phone calls for 30+ applications. It's strange, I think. My resume isn't not good, I don't think. It's just empty.

I did manage to snag a part-time job at the Picture People, for what it's worth. It earns me about $200 every two weeks, which is like a tease, right? Because it's not enough for rent, but it keeps you going.

As far as apartments go, I'm not even looking anymore. Rooming with someone is the only practical option, but I don't have my license either (did I mention that?) It's weird. I'm from a rural northern Michigan town. I assumed Chicago would be a breeze (no pun intended, ugh).

[CarolinaBredChicagoan]

Look on Craigslist. For roommates and jobs. Interview with temp services. Do you have a degree? Stay out of the burbs if you don't have a car.