Initial thought: New York City is so big and so many people are living here, it’s going to be really overwhelming. 

Reality: As the week has gone on one of the things I’ve been most surprised about is how small this city actually feels; over 8 million people live here but it seems like everyone I meet has a friend in common with me or some mutual connection, which makes the city seem a lot more manageable. 

Initial thought: The subway is so scary and confusing I’ll never figure it out.

Reality: I had that sh*t down by Tuesday!! Figuring the subway system out and getting around on my own had me feeling unstoppable. What was scary about the subway, though: Seeing a giant live rat hold a small dead rat in its mouth and scamper down the tracks at one in the morning… some sights you just can’t unsee. 

Initial thought: Food and drinks can’t be that expensive.

Reality: I will never complain about the price of anything in Eugene ever again. Also I miss not having sales tax. But I must say, the food here has been amazing and worth every penny.

How the heck is it already Thursday?!

-Tori Denton | May 9th, 2019