When Cornell is mentioned, Ithaca comes to mind. The institution has been part of the city for so long that it is hard to separate one from the other. And with the construction of Milstein Hall on the northern end of the campus, AAP has found its landmark. But as the world becomes more accessible so have the programs at AAP, with campuses spotted around the globe. As an M.Arch I student we have a mandatory semester in the New York branch of the College of Architecture, Art, and Planning. But I find myself asking the question ‘Why New York?’ The United States has a slew of reputable cities with interesting art and architecture; and some may argue that New York City is too expensive to live in and overrun with tourists and other passers-by. Cities like Boston and Chicago might seem like a perfectly good alternative so that begs the question, why New York?
Everyone who lives here talks about the energy the city and cliché as it may sound it’s true. Very few cities in the world can match the energy of New York. Everyone walks faster, the hustle and bustle of the people is a continues 24/7 momentum.
Though New York is a big city each neighborhood in it is so unique. They all have their own feel and draw that you can travel to what feels like different worlds in a matter of minutes. Harlem, Brooklyn, the Bronx, Tribeca, the FiDi (our home!), New York offers exceptional areas and culture all within a short distance.
New York has a way of making people feel like they are invincible and can accomplish anything they set out to do. Every corner has people showing off their talents and creativity which offers inspiration to passers-by.
One of the city’s greatest attributes is its diversity. About 36% of New York’s residents come from other countries. Each person has their own New York Story, whether they’re a native, an immigrant or just passing through.
Though it is true that there is more competition in New York than in most other cities, the silver lining is that there are a host of opportunities available to all. There are hundreds of thousands of offices, work places and pop ups that can allow people to try different avenues and really push themselves and test their limits.
As a student here thus far the experience has been like no other, the whole city is our campus. And although Ithaca is great, the chance to explore something new and different is an invaluable experience that all of us in the New York semester are excited to embark on.
