Anyone in Miami?

[sigmaceli]

Which hospital in Miami? My father works for Baptist Health, and he loves that organization. He's been working there for 18 years now. They take care of their employees, and are an exceptional health care organization. Most of the hospitals in the area have some seriously amazing specialty centers, and incredible benefits for employees and families.

I grew up in Miami, and it's really not bad! It's got an interesting reputation. I miss it sometimes - granted, I'm glad I'm somewhere else now because it's a good fit, but it's an experience that made me who I am. Depending on the area you live in, you will not feel like you are living in the northernmost city of South America. I was raised in South Miami, in a predominately Jewish part of the city, and I did not speak Spanish fluently until college as a result. You can exist without speaking Spanish fluently! Pinecrest, Coral Gables, Aventura and North Miami Beach are areas that have a great balance of diversity, good neighborhood living and easy access to the busier parts of Miami. Do not count out Broward County, either! Within 30 minutes of downtown Miami depending on where you live.

I know you are in Dubai now, so I don't need to talk about expensive standards of living. It's pricey, particularly for housing. Expect lots of traffic and tolls depending on how far away you live from your area of employment. But the new ballpark is stunning, and they are trying to really build a fanbase for the Miami Marlins. Lots to look forward to on the sports front with the exception of the Dolphins...they're a disaster. Lots of cultural attractions as well! I especially miss the Adrienne Arscht Center for the Arts, the hustle and bustle, and the energy of the city. It's a fun, exciting place! I especially miss the weather - I live in Buffalo, N.Y., and would do almost anything to be able to go to the beach as often as I used to.

As for the Alpha Xi Delta chapter at FIU, I will speak from the heart here. They are a great group of women with a strong reputation in the area. From what I have heard, they have needed a little love lately regarding additional support, and would benefit from the perspective of an alumna not originally from Miami. I know some exceptional women from the Theta Xi chapter who are fun and dynamic to work with. Their Alumnae Association is very young as well.

I hope this is helpful! JMO here, so other Miami folk can feel free to give their perspective too.