I live in New York City, arguably the best city in the world. Songs have been written about its charm, paintings created highlighting the beauty of its buildings, and movies centered around the wit and wonder of its people. And yet, I occasionally feel as if I’m only a spectator.

It’s not completely my fault, I would argue. School takes up most of my time; going to class, studying, planning classes, trying to find the time to sleep. If I went to school in rural Idaho, I wouldn’t mind my school-centric activities. However, in the city that never sleeps (which isn’t exactly true because I tried to get Thai food three nights ago and every place within walking distance closed before midnight), one should make more of an effort to explore and see what makes New York amazing.

Think about it: Yes, we’re students, but the people who live and work here somehow make an effort to do things. They go to plays, parks, markets, quirky stores—and not just on the weekends. Mornings aren’t complete without a stroll through the park with a coffee cup in hand. A quick subway ride during lunch and they’re at the pop-up burrito stand downtown. At night, after relaxing at home for a couple hours, they take a walk and wind up chatting with the gallery owner down the street about up and coming artists. Isn’t this why we all chose NYU? The school itself is great, yes, but there are plenty of good schools in the world. You wanted the experience. You craved the open layout, the lack of boundaries keeping you from the city. You wanted to be a New Yorker.

So why aren’t you doing it?

I propose that we all spend a little more time trying to love the city we’ll be living in for the next few years. And the way to do that is by keeping your eyes and ears open. Look for flyers posted inside coffee shops and on poles around the city, advertising everything from new businesses opening up to fun events to attend. Run to Facebook to see what is happening near you this weekend. Bike around until you spot something fun to check out.

My personal favorite way to explore New York City is by working through the food. It’s safe to assume everyone here likes food, so use that as the driving factor in your explorations. If you check out a new ramen place/dessert shop/smoothie bar, you’re bound to stumble upon one event or another.

My first day back in New York, I saw three Boston Red Sox baseball players, walked through a Brazilian cultural festival, and found a new $1 pizza place near where I live. And I have to say, I love this city.