Aussies of the Bay – Ankit Talwar

Name, job, part of the San Francisco Bay Area you live in

Ankit Talwar, Senior Accountant, Living in Mission Bay, San Francisco. Founder of discwallets.com

When did you first come to the Bay and what’s the backstory there?

First came to the Bay in Feb 2017, one year anniversary coming up this week! Working and living in San Francisco, USA has always been a dream of mine after university, after many years in Australia and spending last 7 years working and venturing across UK/Europe, my timing for the next challenge was perfect, I took the plunge and came over to the West Coast with dreams of learnings and greater successes.

Hardest thing about moving here?

The hardest thing about moving to SF has been finding a role and getting the E3 visa processed in time. Roles were ample when I arrived, explaining the E3 visa to employers was like pitching to a VC (it worked!) [Note by Chris, this infographic may help]

Favorite Bay Area memory to date?

My favourite bay area moment is actually everytime someone comes and visits me so I can explore the whole city with them, best moments are looking at the Golden Gate Bridge from Baker Beach and the trail hike in Presideo (trust me it is magical).

What impact has being Australian had on your life here? In dating? In work?

Being an Australian is the best conversation starter I have ever non-intentionally experienced. Introductions are as easy as 1-2-3 being an aussie here.

The dating scene has being interesting to say the least, tried the app route with good success in meeting great people but feels more disconnected rather than simply meeting someone in person (watch Hang The DJ – Black Mirror episode and that is pretty much the SF dating scene here).

At work as an Australian I always have great banter with my co-workers, talks about travels, beers, life of living in Australia comes up every week.

Most American thing you’ve experienced in your time here?

The most American thing I have experienced is going to sports bars in SF, the passionate fans, the clothing (shoe collection is apparently a big thing) and chatters about stats make me feel like I am truly in USA.

Best advice for anyone who is thinking of coming over?

Best advice for anyone coming to SF is to come here with a purpose and an open mind of experiencing new cultures, new eateries, new exploring opportunities and bring the hustle of working in startups.

Anything else you’d like to share?

I leave this interview with a final note: Live, Learn, Explore, Remember You Only Have One Life To Make It Happen. So Don’t Wait.