As an LA native and soon to be University of Oregon alum, I have spent my entire twenty-two years of life on the West Coast. And because of my Los Angeles pride, I always had a preconception that I would hate New York. I assumed the non-stop speed of the city and over-stimulation would be too stark of a contrast to the laid-back, easy-going ways of the West Coast, however, I couldn’t have been more wrong.

I fell in love with New York City the second I landed, though it wasn’t hard to considering the perfect weather and excitement of the upcoming week. I found that I was pleasantly surprised by quite literally every aspect of the city. I was amazed to find out how friendly the locals were, and felt right at home navigating the subway. I welcomed the vast size of the city, and the sounds of different languages were music to my ears. Arriving in the city made me realize how much I craved the diversity and culture that I often find lacking in Eugene, and my infatuation with New York grew with every inch I explored. I can’t see what else you have in store, New York.

Jamie Rolston - 05/06/2018