Question: Why New York?

Photo Credit: Celine Elliott

Why do you want to live in New York?

As a California native, I am asked this question a lot by family, friends, and even total strangers. Most of the time, they are incredulous that I would choose to leave such perfect, consistent weather behind. At first, having never been to New York, I didn’t really know how to clarify my East Coast dreams.

Now, I love California and am so proud to call it my home, but ever since I was a child, I have felt an intense curiosity about New York City. I have always been drawn to it, perhaps because it is so different from California. Growing up, I saw palm trees instead of skyscrapers and cars packed together on freeways rather than people squeezed together on subways. In other words, it offered a whole different lifestyle than what I was used to on the West Coast. Admittedly, much of my exposure to New York City was due to movies and television. As a child, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York and Miracle on 34^th Street, gave me a peek at city life and instantly made me yearn for a white Christmas, or really any type of weather that wasn’t 70 degrees and sunny. As I moved into my teenage and young adult years, I still held strong to this connection to New York. I knew I wanted to live in a big city and was drawn to the energy of NYC I saw depicted in the media.

Now that I actually live in New York, I have my fair share of frustrations, like train delays, over-priced meals, and slow-walkers. However, all of these frustrations are greatly outnumbered by the amazing experiences I have had here so far. From strolling through Central Park on a crisp autumn day to trying delicious food at the Chelsea Market, I have to admit that moving to New York was one of the best decisions of my life. There is never a dull moment in the city and there is always something new to explore. New York always has surprises up its sleeve and no day is ever exactly the same. As I walk around the Big Apple, weaving my way through crowds of people, I feel comforted in knowing that I do not feel alone in this big city. When a woman threw up her arms in frustration after a bus we were both waiting for was delayed, it further reminded me of this sentiment and made me feel a sense of community in the shared experiences many New Yorkers face each day. So, to answer the question “why do you want to live in New York City,” why wouldn’t I want to live in New York City?

I’d love to hear your answers to this question, so feel free to comment below!*

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