New York is a place everyone just knows about. Whether you’ve never been or it’s a place you frequent often, it’s very famous. Besides maybe California, New York is the most known place in the United States by people all around the world. So here's to the end of my first year of college and to the city I am saying goodbye to.
My aspirations for a life in New York began as a dream I had since I was a little girl. I wanted to grow up and move away from my suburban Northern California town to the Big Apple. I’d make lots of friends, dress fashionably like Blair and Serena in Gossip Girl, and live out my wildest fantasies that one could have about life in New York. When applying to colleges during my senior year of high school, over 5 schools were in New York. My mind was set that the start of my adult life would begin on the East Coast and everything would fall into place. I disregarded my family, my friends, and everything I loved about my hometown. New York was it for me, or so I thought.
Moving to New York is quite different from vacationing in New York. When you come to New York for a visit, everything is fun. The subways are an experience, the hot dogs on the street are delicious, and Central Park is gorgeous. But when you move to New York, things are different, especially if you come for college. Choosing to go to Fordham University in the Bronx seemed like such a great option for me: a beautiful campus that was just 20 minutes from the heart of Manhattan. Isn’t that the dream?
I quickly discovered that I was lonelier than I could have imagined. Moving from the West Coast to the East Coast is like traveling to another planet--one that I didn't grow up in and failed to truly understand. Whether you attend a local community college, a school a couple hours away, or one that’s 5 hours by plane, college is tough no matter what. But college is especially difficult because everything you’ve ever known is thrown out the window and you start fresh with new people, new assignments, and a new atmosphere.
For years I had romanticized the thought of moving far away. I hated high school and clung to my New York dream. I desperately wanted to prove to those who had hurt me, failed to believe in me, and didn't give me the time of day that I was different and daring. While most people were preparing for schools within the state, I was preparing for the cross-country flight to a whole new world.
Looking back at the end of my freshman year, I'm grateful I had this opportunity. New York taught me so much about people and the kind of person I want to be. I learned how to take care of myself and gained a sense of independence. I was able to experience trains and subways and bustling city streets. I discovered that the fast-paced and rushed New York lifestyle was not for me. I have also grown very appreciative of the beauty of the West Coast and the people in my life.
Even though I won't be furthering my college career in New York, there will always be a special place in my heart for the city. I hope I will one day return and remember the memories I made. As I continue on with my life, I know I will never forget this place. So to New York, thanks for the experience.
Love,
Stefanie
