Dear college kids who call New York City their home and have opted to try out a new location for 4 years,

I’m talkin’ to YOU. When all of your classmates badger you with questions about your life as a “city kid” and what it was like growing up in the “city that never sleeps,” you give them a quick answer and go on with your day. But in all reality, being an offspring of the greatest city in the world cannot be described in just a few short words, and in my opinion, cannot be explained at all unless you fit the quota. Here is a list of some key characteristics of being a New York City Kid:

1. You aren't scared to be out late.

You are a pro at riding the train late. No one else may be in your train car but the homeless man in the corner singing show tunes will sure keep you company. Would you really want to ride the train any other way?

2. You know what a Bodega is.

I was shocked to learn that anyone outside of NYC has absolutely no idea as to what a “Bodega” is. You know, that corner store where you get your $2 iced coffee and a bacon egg and cheese in the morning?

3. You can’t eat pizza anywhere else but when you’re home

Sorry Dominoes and Papa Johns, you just don't make the cut. Artichoke pizza, L&B, and Grimaldi’s, to name just a few, win any day.

4. You know that going to a thrift store is an all day event.

Walking into a Buffalo Exchange or Beacon’s Closet with your closest friends and inhaling the sweet smell of vintage Chanel and worn out flapper dresses... is there anything better?

5. You know at least one person trying to become famous.

Let's face it, everyone in New York is trying to be the best big thing (I’m lucky enough to say I know a few of those).

6. You were a cool kid if you went to a performing arts school.

Usually, kids in the performing arts are labeled as “geeks” or “uncool.” But in NYC, landing a spot in the coveted LaGuardia H.S. for the Performing Arts (proud alum hehe), Talent Unlimited, or PPAS, you are known to be a star.

7. You just don't understand why you can't get cookies delivered to your door at whatever time you want.

We are spoiled. "The city that never sleeps," seriously, never sleeps. Everything is open all the time. Anyone wanna order Insomnia cookies at 4am? Yes please!

8. You aren't afraid to wear whatever the heck you want.

Wanna wear a bathing suit with snow boots? Go for it! Fishnet tights and flip flops? No problem. Anything goes in New York.

9. You 'just can't' with tourist spots.

Empire State Building? Nah. The Statue of Liberty? No Way. How about Times Square? There isn't enough money in the world to make you go there.

10. Lines? There's an app for that.

You have learned to avoid lines like the plague. Long line in Starbucks? No worries. You have already ordered your Venti Coconut Chai Latte to greet you when you walk in.

11. You know you could never see yourself living anywhere else.

There is just something about New York. Yeah, it's important to have "new experiences" and to "broaden your horizons" like your parents tell you. But deep down, you very well know that New York has stolen your heart forever.

Dear NYC,