Being from the West Coast means that you have been spoiled your whole life, and adjusting to life on the East Coast can be extremely difficult. Here is a list of five things that you must be able to adjust to, and some tips from a lifelong Californian on how to make American your home.
1. There isn't any In-N-Out.
No more double-double cheeseburgers animal style, and it is not exactly easy to go home, so it's going to be a while until you get another one.
Tip: Elevation Burger on campus has a pretty mean cheeseburger and they take meal swipes, but the line can be really long. Therefore it's best to go during non-peak hours to grab your burger. Also, there are two pretty good burger joints in Tenleytown: Tap & Shake and Z-Burger, but unfortunately neither of them will be as cheap as In-N-Out.
2. Snow. It's a real thing.
So unless you're from the Pacific Northwest, snow is a whole new ordeal for you, and it can be scary not knowing what to expect.
Tip: snow will be fun for about the first day or two, then it will become gross and icy. Snow cancellations are great but rare, so really enjoy yourselves when they happen. Also, follow @AUPublicSafety on Twitter for the most up-to-date notifications on snow days.
3. Seasons: there exist such things as fall and spring.
Seasons happen on this coast; it is no longer just really hot or mildly cold: be prepared.
Tip: "quadding," going to the quad to sit down with some friends and work or talk, is very popular and fun during the fall and spring. Quadding is a great way to hang out outside, get some vitamin D, and meet new people.
4. HUMIDITY.
West Coasters are used to dry heat and maybe a little bit of humidity while on the coast, but you have never felt something like this before. It is brutal, people.
Tip: the summers can be really humid so it is very important to stay hydrated, so buy a water bottle that is good at keeping water cold. Try to avoid doing heavy physical activity outside during from 12 to 3 p.m., as that is when the heat and humidity are the worst. Instead go to Bender or Cassel for an air-conditioned indoor workout. Also, each person's hair will react differently to the humidity: be prepared.
5. Missing your family.
Being from the West Coast means that you can't just go home on a three-day weekend to visit your family, or even on the short Thanksgiving Break AU gives.
Tip: It's tough to see other people on the East Coast go home and not wish that you could go home and see your family and friends too. Holidays can be especially tough as well, so make some great friends that will treat you like your family, and maybe even take you home for the holidays with them. AU also holds nice family-style dinners for those who stay at school for Thanksgiving. Also, schedule Skype calls with your family, friends and pets; it will almost feel like you're home.
Being from the West Coast and moving all the way across the country can make college even more scary for some. However, American does a great job making you feel at home, even if they don't have In-N-Out.
