Coming to college, I realized a particular struggle having to do with where we come from. Syracuse University is extremely diverse, having students that come from all over the country and internationally to study here. I am extremely happy that 'Cuse is diverse, but there is something us "city folk" have to get off our chest...
I am from Westchester, New York. An area where their are multiple towns that are close to New York City. When I tell people I am from New York, they automatically think NYC. When I tell them I live in the suburbs, they don't understand how I can live close to New York City and be considered to live "in the suburbs."
First of all, NYC is huge, but the surrounding towns and counties are not considered to be "the city." There are houses, there are trees, there are station wagons and all of that good stuff. Going even 10 minutes away from Central Park or Times Square can take you to an extremely suburban community. These communities are extremely different from the city and they are not even comparable to it.
When people hear I live close to the city, I am labeled as a "city girl." This means that I love to hang around in the city and I love the hustle and bustle. That is a part of what makes me who I am. There is nothing wrong with people like that, in fact those people are so self efficient and actually kind (unlike other assumptions regarding New Yorkers). However, that is not the case for me and many other people.
Just because I am close to city does not mean I like it. In fact, I get extremely anxious when I am in the city. Some kids go into the city because it is so easy to get to, but other kids avoid it. Suburban life is different from country life and city life. Living in a small town can be extremely boring. Everyone knows your business when you don't want them to.
Also, I realize life in the country is very different than the life I live. I have been to the country and the lifestyle is different, it is a culture shock for sure. It is the same for people in the country who come to visit the city. There is an in-between lifestyle known as "the Suburbs" and it can be quite nice. Us suburbians would appreciate if we could be seen as our own lifestyle. That we do not live in the city even though we are close to it.
All I ask of you is that the next time you hear that someone you are talking to is from a state with a big city, you don't assume anything. Don't immediately ask them about the major city in their state. Give them the benefit of the doubt. If you have never heard of the place your friend is talking about, then just simply ask where it is. If they say "close to the city," then please don't assume that they are a "city person."
That is all.
Stay lovely guys!
