As much as I’d like to sound like a “real New Yorker” and hate on Times Square, I have to admit I felt the magic last night.

That’s not to say I’m thrilled by smelly streets, loud noises, and potential pick-pocketers. Even the “oh my god I’m actually here” excitement faded pretty quickly. What remained was a sense of awe and scale that I associate with this entire city.

To get advertising nerdy: think about what goes into each of those bright, colorful screens. Hours of ideas, research, and production become just another flashing symbol above a clamoring crowd. It’s like looking at a skyscraper. You feel small, but you want to know what’s happening inside. 

So ready to learn. Can’t wait for tomorrow.

Rachel Benner 05.07.2017.