I picked Baton Rouge over New York or LA after earning an MIT engineering degree—and am loving its genuine sense of community
When I first announced my decision to move to Baton Rouge, friends and family were perplexed. After all, I had spent my college years at MIT in Boston, interned in Los Angeles and Houston, and even entertained job offers from the bustling streets of New York City. Yet, I chose Baton Rouge, a city often overshadowed by its more prominent counterparts. Reflecting on this decision now, I can unequivocally say it was the best move I ever made, both personally and professionally.
Growing up in a small town in Illinois, I was accustomed to the close-knit community feel where everyone knows your name. As a Division 3 athlete, I thrived on camaraderie and teamwork, values that were reinforced during my time at MIT. However, the fast-paced, often impersonal nature of larger cities left me yearning for a sense of belonging and connection.
Baton Rouge welcomed me with open arms, embodying the perfect blend of small-town warmth and city amenities. Unlike the anonymity I felt in Los Angeles or while navigating the subway in Boston, Baton Rouge offered a sense of community that was both refreshing and invigorating.
One of the most striking aspects of Baton Rouge is its vibrant cultural scene. As a certified sommelier, the local food and wine scene in Baton Rouge does not disappoint—with a plethora of restaurants and bars coupled with great service and staff, where I’ve made lasting friendships over shared meals and wine tastings.
Moreover, my passion for staying active has found a perfect home here. I have participated in local running clubs, and the sense of community and support is palpable. It’s a stark contrast to the sometimes isolating fitness culture I experienced in bigger cities, where everyone seems to be competing against each other rather than fostering a spirit of collective improvement.
Professionally, Baton Rouge has been a catalyst for tremendous growth. As a chemical engineer passionate about global energy solutions, product innovation, and sustainability, I have thrived in Baton Rouge’s dynamic work environment. Starting as an engineer, I have advanced to a management role, now overseeing a team of more than 10 engineers. This leadership role has been both challenging and rewarding, allowing me to empower and influence a diverse team to think and act in transformative ways.
Baton Rouge offers unique professional opportunities that might not be as accessible in larger cities. The local business community is tight-knit and supportive, making networking more organic and less daunting than in larger urban centers. The city’s commitment to fostering young professionals is evident in the numerous development programs and networking events designed to help individuals like me thrive—as well as Better in BTR, a national campaign through which I now have the opportunity to share my experience and resources with others.
One of the most unexpected joys I’ve found since moving here in June 2016 is my involvement with the Boomerang Comedy Theater. Having recently picked up comedy, I was hesitant about how this new venture would be received. To my delight, the Baton Rouge improv and stand-up scene is incredibly welcoming and supportive. Performing at open mics and being part of an improv team has not only honed my comedic skills but also deepened my connection to the community. The laughter and camaraderie shared on stage and off have become an integral part of my Baton Rouge experience.
Baton Rouge provides a quality of life that is difficult to match. The cost of living is significantly lower than in cities like Los Angeles, Boston, and New York, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle without the financial strain often associated with larger metropolitan areas. The slower pace of life here means less stress and more time to enjoy the things that matter most, whether it’s a leisurely bike ride on the Mississippi River levee, a spontaneous evening of jazz at a local bar, or a weekend getaway to explore the bustling streets of New Orleans or rich history of Louisiana.
Moving to Baton Rouge has also given me a renewed appreciation for the value of community. The genuine connections I’ve made here are a testament to the city’s welcoming spirit. In larger cities, it’s easy to feel like a small fish in a vast ocean, but in Baton Rouge, every individual contributes to the vibrant tapestry of the community.
I serve as a campaign coordinator for United Way, where I drive fundraising initiatives that improve the lives of those in underserved communities. This role has deepened my understanding of the community’s needs and my dedication to making a tangible difference. Additionally, my role as a mentor for the Baton Rouge Youth Coalition has been profoundly fulfilling, allowing me to create access to quality education for underprivileged, high-achieving students.
My journey from a small town in Illinois, through the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles, Boston and New York, to finally finding my place in Baton Rouge has been one of discovery and fulfillment. Baton Rouge stands out not just for its charm and culture, but for the genuine sense of community it offers. It’s a city where people matter, where connections are real, and where life is lived fully and joyfully. For anyone considering a move or looking for a place that feels like home, I wholeheartedly recommend Baton Rouge—it’s a decision you won’t regret.
David Hou is a technical engineering supervisor at the ExxonMobil Manufacturing Complex in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
More must-read commentary published by Fortune:
The opinions expressed in Fortune.com commentary pieces are solely the views of their authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and beliefs of Fortune.
