You may see in movies and TV shows how wonderful living in New York City is, but there are a few things you need to know before you can confirm that it is as perfect as it seems. Before you pack up your bags and cruise into the big apple know that you need to be prepared for anything and everything. It's one thing to visit, it's another thing to actually live there. I learned 7 things this year living in New York City:
1. Leave 15 minutes before you planned.
You always assume that if you leave just on time for an event that you'll arrive at the perfect time. This is rarely ever the case. The subway lines are always running late, or frankly not at all, and traffic is always horrendous so Ubering is not a safe alternative. If you're walking, there's constantly tourists who stop for pictures, random construction or cars that don't stop when you're trying to cross. The last thing you need is to be late for work or class. This being said, I think I beat the record for Worlds Fastest Walker.
2. I have no patience.
I always thought I had no patience before living in NYC, but I was wrong. I have developed a serious case of "I can't wait for anything." Wether its standing in line for a coffee, waiting for the subway or maneuvering myself around slow walkers, I always find myself grunting in frustration or rolling my eyes. I have places to be people!!
3. Never EVER forget your headphones.
The last thing you want to be stuck doing is listening to someone blast awful music on the subway, or even worse, listen to peoples conversations when you're trying to study or enjoy your break. Headphones also scream "Don't talk to me!" so if you don't have them you may find yourself engaging in a conversation you didn't intend on happening in the first place.
4. Always keep an umbrella in your bag.
Sweet niblets! If I got a dollar for every time I had to run for my life around the city to avoid looking like I just went for a swim, I would be rich. Hoods are NOT enough. There's also no such thing as waiting for the storm to pass... It's NYC and the weather is extremely unpredictable. The only solution is to run for it and pray you don't drop anything along the way.
5. Wear comfy shoes.
I didn't learn my lesson to just wear comfy shoes until I was at work, bleeding from my heel in flats I had bought a few days before. You are always on your feet moving around, so swallow your pride and put the cute shoes down and throw on a pair of comfy sneakers. Your feet will thank you later.
6. Always have money on your metro card.
Us New Yorkers LOVE to be in a rush, especially after a long day. The worst thing in the world is getting to the turnstile with a line behind you and the card reader blink "Insufficient amount." Now you're stuck in a 15-minute line to refill your card and you missed the express train.
7. I am a strong independent woman who don't need no man.
Although there are some small negatives of living in the city, falling asleep to the city lights and waking up to a view of the Freedom Tower fills me with an immense sense of pride and independence. I am a college student studying hard for a degree while working/interning, all while meeting and spending time with the most amazing people I have ever met. I have myself and my girls to rely on for all aspects of life and motivation and I wouldn't want it any other way.
