Laurie and Ryan Tiojanco

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​Originally from Chicago, IL, both now call the northern city of Manchester in the UK home. Laurie works in the tech industry and Ryan works in the food industry. 

Q+A with Laurie and Ryan

WHERE ARE YOU FROM IN THE USA?
Chicago, IL
 
WHERE ARE YOU CURRENTLY BASED? WHAT ARE YOU DOING THERE?
We are currently based in Manchester, UK, by the canals of Castlefield.
 
Laurie works in the tech scene as a UX Consultant for a design agency. Ryan works throughout the UK & Ireland food industry as the Technical Sales Manager for a flavour company.
 
WHAT BROUGHT YOU OVERSEAS?
Ryan went to study and get his Masters degree at Manchester Metropolitan University. We loved it so much in the UK that we decided to try to stay. A year after arriving, Laurie got a Tier 1 Exceptional Talent Visa to help us do that.
 
DID YOU STUDY ABROAD IN THE PAST (OR PRESENT)? IF SO WHAT PROGRAM AND WHERE?
Ryan obtained his MSc in Food Innovation from Manchester Met. University.
 
ANY WORDS OF WISDOM FOR FUTURE YOUNG AMERICANS?
As an American, you could move to almost every country if you really wanted to. All you have to do is research prospective options, figure out how to get the visa, and then go for it. Having the guts to just jump in is what will get you abroad, even if you have a pinch of uncertainty.
 
It won’t be all smooth sailing either, things that you would think would be simple like opening a bank account and finding a place to live will be more difficult. Moving abroad makes you a better problem solver. Making friends from other countries opens up your mind and gives you new perspectives on life. Having international experience on your resume sets you apart from other candidates. If you love to travel, imagine waking up everyday in another country. It’s like you’re always on vacation! Overall, moving aboard has been a truly rewarding experience and we hope more Americans take advantage, especially couples.
 
LINKS TO YOUR WEBSITE, SOCIAL MEDIA, BUSINESSES YOU’D LIKE TO BE ADDED?*
Ryan’s Instagram: @hungrytio
Laurie’s Instagram: @laurietio
​Ryan's Twitter: @hungrytio
​Laurie's Twitter: @laurlaurmay

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