As Long-Islanders, we're spoiled with some of the best perks that America has to offer. That being said, we desperately miss those perks when we're away at college. Here are a few things that all Long-Islanders miss when they're at school:
1. Beaches
It's not until you're away at school that you miss being no more than a half hour drive away from some of the nicest beaches in the country.
2. Good pizza and bagels
It's a known fact that Long Island and New York City make the best pizza and bagels. It's all in the water. So, when you go to school outside of the tri-state area, finding a good place to get pizza or bagels is like striking gold.
3. Obnoxious, aggressive drivers
New York drivers are the perfect blend of safe and aggressive. We've perfected the art of safely crossing over three lanes of traffic at once and riding another driver that obnoxiously cut us off just close enough to be annoying. When you drive in other states, however, especially Rhode Island, your road rage is through the roof. Why is this guy trying to make me stop traffic so he can make a left? Why is the person in front of me actually going the speed limit?
4. New York City
Even though most people only go to the city once in a while, it is the perfect place to go if you're bored. It's no more than an hour train ride away, and there's always something fun and different to do.
5. Bubba's Burrito Bar
Regardless of what town you're from, I can pretty much guarantee that you've at least heard of this little gem in Islip. Who doesn't love a burrito the size of a small child that can stand up on its own?
6. Delis
What do you mean, you don't know what a deli is? Where can I get a hero and a deli iced tea?
7. Concerts at Jones Beach
Rain or shine, concerts at the beach are a staple of everyone's summers on the Island. Going to concerts anywhere else just isn't the same anymore.
8. "Change at Jamaica"
Even though you avoid the change at Jamaica when taking the train into the city, don't even deny that a little part of you misses the adrenaline of having to sprint through trains and platforms to catch the right train when you're at school.
9. Not being asked if you're from Long Island because of your "accent"
I had no idea there is such a thing as a "Long Island accent" until I got to school. So when I'm home, it's so nice to not be asked every time I meet someone new to say things like "coffee," "dog," "mall," or "sausage."
10. Most of, if not all, of your family being no more than 20 minutes away
It seems to be a common trend on the island that a lot of people don't move very far from where they grow up. Sometimes, they even stay in their hometown and send their kids to the same high school they went to. So, having the majority of my family less than 20 minutes away makes coming home that much more special.
