Moving from Kentucky to New York City was full of surprises. Here are 5 things I learned.

• When I moved from Kentucky to New York, I realized that reality was different from my expectations.
• Though New Yorkers have a reputation for being rude, most people I’ve met are friendly and helpful.
• I didn’t know I was going to go through so many bandages before I started walking around the city.

The summer before my senior year of high school, I was standing in the middle of New York City’s Times Square when I saw an advertisement that read, “Inspiration is everywhere.”

At that moment, I knew that one day I would be back in the city, not as a tourist, but as a resident. Fast forward six years later, and I am proud to call the Upper East Side of Manhattan home. 

After living in the city for a few weeks, I’ve learned quite a lot about New York that I didn’t know when I moved from the small town of Owenton, Kentucky, about an hour northwest of Lexington. 

New Yorkers have a reputation for being rude, but they are some of the nicest people I have ever met

Kentucky is a very sport-centric state.

There’s the battle of the bluegrass — the University of Kentucky Wildcats and the University of Louisville Cardinals — and then there’s horse racing at Churchill Downs in Louisville, home to the Kentucky Derby. And in Lexington, there’s Keeneland Racing.

But that’s about it, so people like me who don’t find sports that thrilling often struggled to find things to do in Kentucky.

On the other hand, there are constantly things going on in New York City that appeal to a range of interests, from Broadway shows and concerts to karaoke nights and street fairs. You never know what you may stumble upon.

In New York, I’ve walked more than ever before and have stocked up on plenty of bandages

Since I don’t have a car — most households in New York City don’t — I’ve walked most places, which my legs and feet had to adjust to.

One morning, I walked to Central Park and when I got home, I realized that I had already walked 5 miles before breakfast.

My feet and heels are often covered in blisters, and I’m already on my second box of bandages — but the blisters are so worth it.

The hustle and bustle of New York may seem stressful at times, but it’s so motivating

I’m a person who’s highly impacted by my environment, so if I find myself feeling unmotivated or uninspired, I’ll simply take a walk.

As I’ve walked around New York City, I’ve felt the energy of people striving toward something.

That magical energy is contagious and pushes me to be a better version of myself. Even the skyline of Manhattan is breathtaking and reassures me that I can do whatever I set my mind to and that no dream is ever too big.

I will forever cherish the life I had in Kentucky, but I’m so thankful to be living in New York City.

This story was originally published on May 29, 2022, and most recently updated on August 30, 2024.