TASTE: The food scene in NYC goes far beyond the scope of options in Eugene. So, I came prepared with an agenda and a list of food recommendations a three pages long. I was looking for everything from bagels to dumplings to finding the perfectly cooked dish of pasta. I got a great taste of the city but I realized that the food had an effect greater than just filling my stomach and giving me energy. I experienced the table as a place for community. Sometimes that table took the form of a grassy knoll in Central Park, a bench in dumbo and even the hotel room bed. I broke bread with people I had never talked with before and as we shared our names we simultaneously shared our food. On the other hand, I sat one on one with a friend I had know for four years reflecting on not only the past week had changed us but on the changes we had experienced throughout our entire time at college. I have always viewed the table as a place of togetherness and in a city as vast and diverse as NYC I was happy to see that it took many forms. 

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That said, I left New York over stimulated and in complete and utter awe. One of the best week of my life and I am so blessed to be part of such an amazing program with teachers and peers who encourage me and push me farther than I ever thought possible. So thank you, Thank You, THANK YOU to all who made this #UONYC2018 trip a reality!

Gianna Nardi 5/5 - gianna-nardi.com