New York, New York

NEW YORK CITY

What's the first thing that comes to mind when you think about New York? Is it Time Squares? The Empire State? Brooklyn Bridge? Well, New York is a lot more than that.

 When I was a little kid, I always dreamed about living in New York. Movies, TV shows, Songs, you name it. Everyone is always talking about how great of a city it is. It is a great city, but it is more than what you see on screen. 

A long time ago, I got the chance to experience what the real New York was. I was sent to a boarding school on Long Island, pretty far but pretty close at the same time. At that time, I felt like the city was mine, that there was nothing I couldn't accomplish while living there. Eventually, things changed; I grew up and had to find my way back to Mexico. But something had changed inside me; I was not the same person before and after that experience. 

New York has something special once you let the city embrace you, there is no way back. "You can always leave New York, but it will never leave you."

 Last month, I had the chance to experience that same thing again. I felt like that 16-year-old kid in 2014, with all these dreams and things I wanted to accomplish. I felt again that nothing was impossible; the city was mine, and so was the world. 

I'm going to share with everyone a piece of my experience. Things I learned, experienced, and my own personal thoughts. If you ever feel like you're losing parts of yourself, go to New York, and I can assure you that you will find yourself.  

Things you learn while you are traveling: 

1. There are good people out there everywhere. As simple as you are lost and looking for directions, some stranger would help you find your way home. 

2. Friends come and go. Losing friends is always tough, especially if you are someone extremely attached like me lol First, acknowledge your mistake. Apologize, don't excuse yourself, and let the rest flow.

3. You can make lifetime friendships in a couple of days. Learn, Listen and Enjoy. There are a lot of people who will match your vibe everywhere in the world. Always be yourself and surround yourself with good people.

4. Life is all about perspective. Everyone has their own. Listen to people, try to understand their backgrounds, and learn from them based on what you think will help you grow.

5. Talk to random people; they always have something interesting to tell you. It could be the random girl on the subway, the cashier, the waitress, or someone you bumped on the streets. Everyone has their own life experiences and incredible stories to tell.

6. Long-distance friendships are tough to keep, but if you keep them, I can assure you nothing feels better than catching up after a couple of years. The feeling you get after talking to someone you haven't seen in a long time where many things happened, but at the same time, friendship remains the same is great. 

7. Friends who host friends are amazing. The fact that they share a piece of their space with you, for me, is like sharing a part of their heart. If you have ever received a place to stay, just remember to give the favor back. 

8. Nothing is better than sitting by yourself at a restaurant and enjoying a great meal. Spending time with yourself is always a good idea. 

I hope everyone gets the chance to experience at least one city the way I got to experience New York. Wish you all the best in the world; with love Aimee Velez.