I m a junior in high school and believe I m interested in applying to Columbia University and Barnard College in Morningside Heights, Manhattan.Both schools have great programs and everything I m looking for in a school. The only thing I m sketchy about is NYC itself.I just dont know if I can imagine living there being raised in such open space. The ideas of relying on subways and taxis creeps me out a little, but maybe it s not that bad. My dad went to NY on business over Thanksgiving and said that it s really cleaned up since the last time he was there....(in the 90s of course, but improvement s still improvement)I plan on visiting, but any advice on if it d be too hard to adjust to NYC life?Thanks!
The change is going to be hard at first but it will be worth it. The pace of living is very fast. This is why new yorkers have a reputation for being rude and aggressive. Its just the pace you have to live at. Upper manhattan is becoming very gentrified but it is still mostly a hispanic neighborhood. There are plenty of small stores you can shop at within walking distance. The city will feel very crowded but since you have so much so close your sense of space will change. Learning the subway will not be too difficult. Don t plan on taking taxis everywhere unless you have lots of money. Manhattan is a VERY expensive place to live in so make sure your budget is in order. Living in New York will help you experience the entire world in a nutshell. It will be a great experience.
I grew up in Texas (Houston) attended Columbia. I Loved it!! You will get used to the differences it s great to be able to walk everywhere. You can find anything your heart desires 24 hours a day (be careful what you look for though!). Oh, and buy some very warm clothes. I m back in Houston now but really miss NYC!
it would take adjustment, but if people who come from Africa or wherever can deal with it....so can you! You speak the same language (sort of) and subway system is very easy to learn. You won t be using a car for 4 years, except when you go home on breaks, so you will have to get used to carrying your groceries home...I would have loved to have gone to NYC when I was your age!hope your dad makes a zhitload of $, because you are looking at $50k/year. My kid was interested in Columbia, but they have *no* scholarships, so that idea went out the window!
Moving to a new place is always exciting yet a bit confusing as well. What disturbs is the fact how you can adjust with the new surroundings but once you get settled you will never feel the same. NYC is a good city to live in. You will get many Texas guys out here. You never know you might get any of your school friends here as well. There is plenty to explore so take some time out from studies and visit the places of interest and downturn areas.