After Andrew's dad died, his mom wanted him to have a normal non-magical life in Los Angeles.
His Aunt Mac had another idea - she wanted him to move to Chicago to become her apprentice.
Andrew chose the Mages' Guild over his mother. He never thought his choice would land him into a world of High Magic, being chased by Shadows in a place with ever-changing scenery where you can't rely on a map to get you home.