First time flying out of state, and it proved to be both an exciting and life-changing experience. Until now, I had never flown out of the state alone, primarily due to limited opportunities. However, this trip to New York turned out to be one of the best experiences I’d ever had.
I vividly remember the intense feeling of packing my three suitcases. There was my carry-on, a backpack, and two large bags filled with all my clothes. This was a three-month adventure that I was embarking on in New York while simultaneously moving into a new apartment for my final year of college. The pressure of deciding what to pack for this journey was one of the most intense experiences I’d ever faced.
What clothes should I pack? Should I include my nail kit and hair products? Do I need to bring heels? And what about my Nintendo Switch?
All these thoughts were swirling in my mind, but I finally managed to narrow down what I would take with me.
My first landing in New York felt like a fever dream. I can’t recall much, but I vividly remember taking an Uber late at night to the apartment where I was staying, located in Lower Manhattan. It was there that I met two people who would go on to become great friends.
Coming from a quiet, southern environment, the city’s hustle and bustle was a lot to absorb. The bright lights, the constant honking of cars, and the loud police sirens every few seconds created an overwhelming feeling of noise. Strange liquids on the ground added to the unfamiliarity of my surroundings. I knew I had to adjust quickly, especially since I would be living here for the next three months.
I’ve visited Times Square a few times, and I have to say, it was a bit underwhelming. I’m not quite sure what I was expecting, but it certainly didn’t live up to the hype.
Riding the subway for the first time was a great experience. It set the tone for my stay in New York, helping me feel more at ease with the city’s vibrant atmosphere and its diverse people. By far, it was one of my highlights.
Why New York?
My decision to visit New York was solely driven by my acceptance into an internship. As I approached my final year of college, I secured an internship position at a research facility, working on a project in collaboration with the University of Pennsylvania at the Flatiron Institute. My research focused on studying the early universe and the reionization phase in the cosmic microwave background, and I had the opportunity to present my findings at three conferences later that academic year.
During those three months in New York, my expectations were fully met. The experience was a whirlwind of fun, excitement, and exhaustion, brimming with opportunities I never imagined I would encounter. Initially, I hadn’t considered New York as a dream destination, but that internship transformed my perspective on taking opportunities and ‘shooting my shot.’
It truly was a life-changing experience.
Navigating the City
Taking the subway, what some might call the train, was definitely the highlight of my trip. Within three weeks, I became adept at finding my way through the city’s streets and avenues, almost as if I were a local. A huge thanks to my good friend, who has lived there for several years; she introduced me to Apple Pay, which completely changed the way I make purchases. I could buy items in a flash without ever needing to pull out my card.
I even started using Apple Pay to hop on the train, and for some reason, I found it very enjoyable. There was one particular instance I remember vividly: I had a hair appointment in Harlem. I arrived at the salon right on time, but the journey back turned into an adventure. I hopped on the train, but unfortunately, I missed my stop and ended up in Queens! It took me an entire hour to get back to Manhattan, which meant I missed out on meeting my friends for ice cream in Koreatown. Still, it turned out to be a memorable experience.
The smells in New York City are unforgettable; there’s something so unique about them, though I can’t quite put my finger on it. Coupled with the city’s frantic pace, especially in Manhattan, everything felt like a fever dream. From walking to work and back home, to stopping for a coffee at a local shop, or racing to catch the next train in just five minutes, the energy was overwhelmingly good.
It was a constant buzz, filled with a fast-paced vibe that made every moment feel alive.
The Highlights
Central Park was my favorite part of living in New York. On my days off, I take the chance to visit the park, often sitting outside or wandering through the nature reserve. The mix of people around me created an atmosphere of calmness and freedom that I haven’t experienced since moving back to Texas.
I also had the incredible opportunity to attend a performance by the New York City Ballet with friends I met during my internship. The show was nothing short of phenomenal and left a lasting impression on me.
Additionally, I visited the National Museum of the American Indian, which was a profoundly enriching experience. Supporting the indigenous community in America is important to me, and there, I was able to explore artifacts, learn about the diverse histories of various tribes and villages, and listen to their stories. It was a profound experience that I will always cherish.
I made quick trips to Pennsylvania and New Jersey for an adventure.
The Unexpected
I don’t know why I didn’t expect or assume it, but I was surprised to find that New York apartments were smaller than I had imagined. Living with two roommates for three months in such a tight space was a new experience for me. Coming from Texas, I found it unusual to have both the AC unit and heater inside the apartment. The kitchen was particularly cramped, barely accommodating my usual cooking style. Yet, I gradually adjusted and realized that I didn’t need much to enjoy my time there. I just found myself thriving on the vibrant energy of New York City.
Having watched countless TV shows and movies, I was aware of the bold and straightforward nature of New Yorkers, but experiencing it firsthand was an entirely different matter. I encountered people who were expressive and unafraid to speak their minds, which I found different. However, I also witnessed moments when some individuals exhibited rudeness, which was disappointing. Fortunately, those around them often called out such behavior, reminding me of the city’s unique blend of candor and community accountability.
A City That Stays With You
Living in New York for three months taught me the value of independence and the importance of being proactive in pursuing my goals. My time there, primarily driven by an internship that enhanced my academic credentials in astrophysics research, has significantly shaped my outlook on success and personal growth. This experience has inspired me not only to write this article but also to take ownership of my own life.
I’ve come to realize that personal growth is a continuous journey, and my time in Manhattan has motivated me to strive for even greater achievements. While I now understand that I can thrive in a city for only a short period, I genuinely enjoyed every moment I spent there. That experience will forever remain a pivotal chapter in my life, propelling me toward new adventures and opportunities.
New York has easily become one of my favorite places to visit. Although I haven’t ventured outside of Texas much lately, I hope to change that soon. Japan is my primary destination on the horizon. At this moment, I’m slowly discovering what brings me joy and how I want to shape my life. I long for happiness and the passion to truly embrace life again, a feeling I haven’t experienced in quite a while.
Have you been to places that resonate with you and evoke a sense of joy and peace?
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