Isabell Trevino was born and raised in the Dallas-Fort Worth area of Texas. She attended undergraduate and graduate school in Texas as well, via Texas Tech University. But from a far, she always had dreams of living in the American Northeast. Upon graduation and the beginnings of her job search, she did desktop research on the things she most desired in a new city: Walkability, active and outdoor lifestyle, four seasons of weather, and a dog-friendly community for her three-year-old King Charles Papillon named Rita. What she landed on was Buffalo, New York.

“I wanted to try something completely different,” Isabell said. “There is so much amazing culture and openness around here that I hadn’t previously seen or been exposed to.”

When she decided on Buffalo and accepted a job offer from AAA Western and Central New York, Isabell, her mom, and Rita packed up her hatchback and drove a day and a half from Texas to Buffalo. Since relocating, Isabell has settled into a Williamsville apartment and is spending her time getting to know her community. She loves to exercise and be outdoors, so she has attended multiple runners’ clubs through 12 Gates Brewing and joined F45, a circuit training gym. She also has already taken advantage of Buffalo’s proximity to Toronto, taking in the Canadian city for a weekend with visiting friends.

“People are always asking me why I came to Buffalo. It’s a great city! I love the mix of small town and big city. You have access to so much so close – hiking trails and Toronto. There are a lot of draws to Buffalo,” Isabell said.

Tell us about your work.

I joined AAA Western and Central New York at such an exciting time. The Club is investing in so many areas of its business, from Insurance to Travel to Technology, which is where I’m working. It’s really my first professional job out of college, which has been a great transition. Everyone has been so sweet and accommodating, working with common goals, and really caring about our members.

What are you most excited to experience here in Buffalo?

I of course need to see a Buffalo Bills game. But I’m also really excited for the winter and winter sports. I cannot wait to go snowshoeing and learn some new things.

Photo by Casi Hall