Living in a big city has always been a dream of mine. When it came time to look at colleges I only toured schools in Boston or in very close surrounding towns. After touring Fisher College I absolutely fell in love, not only with the school but with the location. FC is located directly in the middle of Boston, a five-minute walk away from all the best shopping, restaurants, and everything else the city offers. With all the amazing things that come with living in the city, there were a few I wasn't prepared for.
First off, cities are EXPENSIVE. Not only is shopping expensive, and there's plenty of that, but between Uber, the subway fares, meals out, Starbucks and museum/entertainment fares, I quickly became broke. These are things I did not anticipate adding up so fast. I knew I'd have to spend money but not so frequently or so at such a high rate. If you're planning for school/life in the city SAVE UP. The phrase "broke as a joke" will soon become near and dear to your heart.
Another aspect of my new life that I was prepared for but not nearly enough was the amount of walking living in a city really is. I was well aware that city life means walking but once again, not nearly this much. When I say I probably walk 3-5 miles on an average day I mean it. And when all those Uber and subway rides drain your bank account walking is really your first and last resort. Before you come to the city make sure you break in all your cute new leather boots that are going to cut up your feet and pack those comfy sneakers.
The good and bad (mostly good) next item I have is how fashionable the city is. It seems that everywhere you look someone is killing an outfit and as a fashion lover, I could not be left out. The city really inspires you to dress well and in a way that makes you feel like you're accurately representing yourself. Especially at a small school without much of a campus, the city is my campus and I'll be damned if I'm caught out for a whole day in sweats. That's just me, but still.
Another city upside to expect is that you will never be bored. No matter what, you can walk out your front door and go find something to do even if it's just finding your way around. There's always amazing graffiti, gorgeous scenery and even some dream-house neighborhoods to go walk around and see. Not to mention that all of that is free. Before you blow all your cash the fun opportunities are endless, be it clubs, shops or farmers markets every day, something will catch your eye and that boredom will never get to you.
This may be an up or downside depending on the person, but in the city you'll never be alone or have a quite moment. No matter where you are at any time there's a hustle and bustle. Noise from cars, trains, people and all the activity around you will never leave you in a complete silence. Personally, I like this, but I know a lot of people don't. The good thing is that all that noise blends into your life and you hardly notice it after the first week.
The city is my happy place. I can feel so much more alive and productive living somewhere with so much movement. and opportunity. But before you move to a city either for school or for life, consider these things and plan accordingly.
