Care to share your story of being an internet Q&A refugee?

I remember what a strange experience it was for me, way back when: the culture shock, the loss of identity and status, etc. Sure, it’s a “first-world problem”, but the impact is real enough.

What is (or was) it like for you? Do you feel inclined to huddle with your fellow refugees, or are you more inclined to assimilate as quickly as possible? What was your social standing where you were before? Is it painful or refreshing to be building your identity from scratch? Anything in particular you’d like the natives to know?