Being a freshmen currently in her first semester in New York City, I have come to know the hardships of both being in college and living in New York City. If you are also attending school in the city, I hope you can agree with what I think life is like to be a college student in NYC.
1. You learned the real definition of what it is like to be broke, really quick.
Your friends have no idea how expensive things are here compared to at their schools and how much there is to do (that costs too much money). You will soon find yourself broke and only going out if you think you can go without eating for the rest of the week. The food is more expensive, the drinks are more expensive, the subway rides add up and you find yourself more addicted to shopping than ever.
2. This really is the city that never sleeps.
The city truly never sleeps, which can be a problem if you're a light sleeper. The sirens, the yells and the horns will not let you rest peaceful unless you buy some earplugs that you can't afford because you're broke. All you have to do is embrace it and try to ignore it, or buy sleepy time tea.
3. Everyone wants to come visit you.
Your friends will think your dorm room is a little vacation in the city for them and if they happen to come to the city unannounced just know they live with you now. When they do come they're going to expect you to know where everything they want to do is, even if you've only been there for a few months. This also includes your parents who view visiting you as a trip to the city.
4. The club promoters won't stop.
Your direct messages will be flooded by promoters looking to get you into their clubs, even if you tell them you don't have a fake ID or are not interested. I've found that even if you don't answer their texts they will still text you every night so there's no escaping. I also highly recommend getting a fake if you're going to go to the city for college.
5. You aren't ready for what you're going to see on the streets.
There is always something going on and you never know what is going to be happening when you turn the corner. You will see people urinating on the side of the street and people performing for money. There are just some things you can't get out of your mind for the rest of your life. Again, just embrace the weirdness and the cultures of New York City.
