Ah yes, the greatest city in the world...for you. Whether you've left for college or moved out, you'll find that there's a lot of things about New York City that you'll miss.
1. You're gonna have to learn to drive. Eventually.
When you grow up in a city that has the longest, most efficient subway line in the U.S., there's almost no point in driving in the congested streets. But the moment you leave NYC, you have to face the grim reality that not everything is walking distance. Better get that license while you can!
2. You become a huge pizza snob.
Especially if you're a New Yorker living in Chicago. Expect a lot of debates over which pizza is better. But worry not, you know that thin crust beats that deep dish stuff any day.
3. Your average walking pace is actually really fast.
One minute you're walking around town with your friends and the next, you're almost half a mile ahead of them. And that's just your "slow walk".
4. No more 24 hour...anything.
Unfortunately, many places outside of NYC close super early. If you want that 2 AM burrito, you might have to make it yourself.
5. The lack of swearing makes you feel uncomfortable.
New Yorkers are notorious for their foul mouths and big attitude (I'm wawking here!) and going somewhere that's not as aggressive as us is a pretty big life shift.
6. Most places aren't in a war over which one of their sports teams is better.
Whether it's Giants vs. the Jets, Islanders vs. the Rangers, Nets vs. the Knicks, or good ol' Yankees vs. the Mets, it's easy to get used to having two of every sports team in well...everything. But hey, at least we get a lot of options!
7. People get confused when you talk about "the city."
You totally mean New York, but you'll realize that you're gonna have to be specific. Especially if you're from the outer boroughs.
8. You'll discover an accent you never knew you had.
Suddenly, people start pointing out the way you say "draw," "dolla," "tawk," "Lawn Guyland", and other words you totally thought were normal. Heck, people might think it's weird that you stand on line, not in line.
9. People are shocked when they find out how many celebrities you've met in passing.
Yes, I saw Lady GaGa at a Sephora. Yes, I talked to Meryl Streep at my brother's graduation. And yes, I passed by Patrick Stewart on my way to Duane Reade. But we really don't make a big deal out of it.
10. You might feel alone at first...
In New York, you can literally be by yourself, yet feel as if you're not alone. You don't have to talk to anyone to feel like someone's always got your back. But when you leave NYC, you might feel alone for the very first time.
