New York City is my love affair.

I was born in raised in West Chester, Pennsylvania (only a short 40 minute train ride from Philadelphia). I have pride for the Flyers and the Phillies, I know what a real cheesesteak tastes like (and the correct way to order it) and it's a hoagie, not a sub.

I go to school in Louisville, Kentucky. I know it's pronounced Luhvul, not Looeyville. I understand that a two minute horse race is one of the biggest holidays of the year, bourbon is the best, and tap water in Louisville is just better.

However, New York City will always be my love affair. Although I enjoyed and adored my time in West Chester and I love Louisville, New York will always be my side chick. NYC is my dream for the future and I am enthralled whenever I get to spend time there- even if it's just for the day.

Every city has a story and every town gives a lesson. New York is filled with hundreds of them that make open your eyes to new possibilities and perspectives. Here are some of my favorite ones.

1. Walk with a purpose.

Keep your head raised and your eyes ahead. Most importantly, put one foot in front of the other with a reason.

2. It's okay to "act like a tourist."

Take pictures of places you've been to hundreds of times, go on adventures in your hometown, take a tour of the place you've always lived down the street from but have never actually investigated.

3. Ignore the people not worth your time.

One thing is guaranteed when walking the streets of NYC: catcalling. Boys will whistle, men will shout. It is important to remember that ignoring the people that aren't worth your time is the most beneficial for you.

4. Try something new.

New York City is a melting pot. There are so many different people from different places. Try that funky new restaurant or find a new coffee shop to do your work at. Don't be afraid to branch out.

5. You need a strong coffee and some good shoes.

There are two things I recommend to anyone going to NYC and now come to think of it, the same two things are probably most crucial to my life: strong coffee and good shoes.

6. Always be cautious.

Stuff happens in NYC. I mean have you seen Law and Order SVU? It doesn't matter where you are, people are crazy so always be careful.

7. You never know someone's story.

Millions of people live in NYC, living very different lives. You never know someone's story, so don't be quick to judge before getting the details.

8. Have pride.

New Yorkers are "known" for their rudeness. But people hardly talk about their pride. They have pride for their hometown, their borough, their job, and on and on. Have pride in who you are and who you're becoming.

New York always has been and always will be one of my favorite places on this Earth. It is a completely different world that changes your outlook on life. I guess the biggest lessons are learned in the biggest cities.