While my experience may not be relevant (I'm a teacher), I have followed the job until I build up enough practical experience to go where I choose. I seek out jobs that will meet my needs and make me happy. A cool city can be cool, but if you hate your job it won't be an enjoyable stay. Luckily, that tactic has taken me to some pretty unique places-- all of which I learned to love. The mountains of western Massachusetts, northern Maine, Lake Placid, New York, and now St. Louis. I've been in STL for 4 years now and while I love it, my partner and I are both planning to return to New England, the homeland, in a few years. I'll have a much easier time finding a job where I want with plenty of experience under my belt!