Becoming a Sycamore Again: Christopher’s Journey Back to Terre Haute

For 15 years, Christopher Bolander built a career and life in San Francisco. The city’s culture, opportunities and energy kept him engaged, but the financial strain weighed heavily. “The average house price on my street, nothing fancy, was between $1.6 and $1.8 million,” he said. Even the most modest studio apartments demanded half a million dollars.

Despite a good job and steady pay, he could never get ahead. Retirement felt more like a moving target than a milestone. “If I lost my job in San Francisco, I’d have been homeless within six weeks,” he explained.

That’s when Terre Haute, home to his alma mater, Indiana State University (ISU), began calling him back. What had once been the backdrop of his college years was now the setting for a more grounded, intentional chapter of life.

Discovering MakeMyMove

The turning point came for Christopher when a friend in Evansville mentioned a relocation program that paid newcomers to move to welcoming communities. Curious, he searched the MakeMyMove website and quickly found himself browsing opportunities across the country.

He considered Indianapolis and Noblesville, but neither felt right. What he wanted was something smaller, a place to “age in place” and build stability. Terre Haute stood out - not only because of its lower cost of living but also because of his ties to Indiana State and the circle of friends who had remained there.

Through MakeMyMove, Christopher was introduced to Terre Haute’s relocation package that includes $7,500 cash for relocation, so he decided to apply. Within a few weeks, he was accepted into the program and purchased a home, sight unseen.

“It all happened pretty fast,” he said. “I saw a house online that had only been on the market for three days and decided, let’s do it.” His local real estate team, a husband-and-wife duo, walked him through the process. “They were honest, helpful and made suggestions I hadn’t even considered. It was a great experience.”

When he finally stepped into his new home for the first time, there were no surprises - just a sense of relief. For the first time, Christopher had a house of his own and the financial stability to enjoy it.

Returning to Sycamore Country

One of the most meaningful parts of Christopher’s return has been rejoining the ISU community. He cheers on the Sycamores with the same enthusiasm he had as a student in the ’80s and follows the Terre Haute Rex, a summer league team with ISU players on the roster.

This past summer, the university hired him to assist with new-student orientation and financial-aid sessions. Drawing on his career with the U.S. Department of Education, he guided incoming students and families through a complex process. “It felt good to be back on campus,” he said. “I got to use what I know and support students who are just starting out.”

For Christopher, being part of the ISU community again is more than a pastime; it’s a full-circle moment. The campus that launched his adult life is now a place where he contributes as a mentor and neighbor.

Small-Town Service, Big-Box Surprise

Adjusting to life in a smaller city came with an unexpected perk: exceptional customer service. Christopher points to a visit to a national change as a standout example. Staff didn’t just point him to the right aisle; they slowed down, listened and walked him through options, answering questions without him feeling pressured or rushed.

“It’s not that people in big cities aren’t polite,” he said. “They just don’t have a lot of time. Here, people take the time.” That experience tracks with what he’s found across town - contractors who call back, clerks who learn your name and neighbors who show up with practical advice on everything from winterizing pipes to finding a reliable car detailer.

A City on the Rise

As he settles in, Christopher has been struck by how much Terre Haute is evolving and by the leadership helping to guide that change. The city, he said, has a new mayor that people are really excited about and there’s an unmistakable sense of momentum.

Old schools and factories are being reimagined as loft apartments and condos. New housing developments are springing up alongside historic mansions and cozy starter homes. The city recently welcomed a casino and hotel, bringing with it new jobs and entertainment options.

He also points out the variety of industries present, from traditional manufacturing to logistics hubs like FedEx and Amazon. For those considering relocating, he sees more opportunity than many might expect from a mid-sized city. “There’s a lot more variety of housing and jobs here than I thought there would be. Terre Haute is only getting better.”

Finding Belonging Beyond Campus

While the university is a touchstone, Christopher has embraced the broader Terre Haute community. He spends weekends at the farmers market, free outdoor concerts and local festivals. He laughs about discovering “local celebrities” after meeting them in person at ISU games.

He drives for Uber part-time, which he describes as both fun and a way to learn every corner of town.“I’m having a blast,” he said. “I’m meeting people all over town, exploring neighborhoods and learning the city in a way I never would have otherwise.”

Neighbors have quickly become part of his support system. From teaming up to repair a fence to swapping gardening tips, the everyday interactions are what make the place feel like home. “It’s nice knowing you can count on people nearby.” Gardening is next on his list and he looks forward to learning from locals about what grows best in the area.

Coming Full Circle

Looking back, Christopher believes his decision to move came at exactly the right time. MakeMyMove gave him the framework and support to make the leap, but it’s his new community that’s given him a sense of belonging.

“There’s always something to do here, whether it’s a festival, a game, or just a neighbor inviting you to a cookout,” he said. “If you’re open to trying what’s here, you’ll always meet people.”

Now Christopher is thriving as a first-time homeowner and once again as a Sycamore. His journey shows that sometimes the best move forward is a return to where it all began.