The latest AAP NYC blog post is by Fabia St-Juste, a Junior in the B.F.A. program, studying in New York City for the Spring 2023 semester. In this article, Fabia shares thoughts on how to overcome the fear of the New York City subway system.
Since my freshman year at Cornell, I always knew that I wanted to have a study abroad experience. Entering my Junior year, so much had changed—including my major!—but the one constant was my desire to experience a world outside of the
quaint, Ithaca bubble. So it’s no wonder that I find myself completing an entire year away from the Ithaca campus for the 2022-2023 academic year.
In the Fall, I was in Rome, Italy, and now in the Spring, I am in New York City. Although the city is closer to Ithaca, this semester is my first time coming to visit. Getting out of LaGuardia airport, I felt much more confident knowing that I was on American (read: familiar) soil and that there were no language barriers that I had to navigate. Yet, there was one tough battle that I didn’t account for: the metro.
I came to the city a week before the official start of class. I told myself that that was ample time to get settled in my apartment, get to know the neighborhood, and just have fun. It sounds more and more ambitious, each time I remember how those first few days went.
Believe it or not, I ended up staying in my apartment for an entire week—partially because of how nervous I was to use the subway. Now that we are about a month into the semester, I am so much better at navigating the city! If you’re reading this, you may be worried about the same thing. This is how I conquered my fear and how you can too:
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
If you’re just as new to the New York City subway system as I am, don’t be afraid to ask for help. I know. I know. New Yorkers don’t have the best reputation for being friendly. But, in my daily commute, I’ve found that there are plenty of people who are willing to offer advice and assistance. I don’t have to ask for help as much now, but at least once a week, I overhear a conversation or two between commuters asking for clarification on a transfer or stop to get to their destination.
So, whether it’s a fellow passenger, a station attendant, or one of the many people who work in the subway system, don’t hesitate to ask questions if you’re feeling lost or unsure. Remember: it’s better to be safe than sorry! Another pro tip: the MTA has a website with helpful information about the subway system. There are also plenty of other apps with real-time arrivals and service advisories. My favorite is MyMTA!
- Purchase a MetroCard…or Don’t!
One of the most important things you can do to make sure you feel comfortable riding the metro in NYC is to purchase a MetroCard. With a MetroCard, you can pay for unlimited rides on buses and subways in the city or pay per ride. You can purchase MetroCards from any station booth or machines located throughout the city.
But beware! You should be careful not to lose your MetroCard or else…a lucky stranger might get to use the remaining balance on your card. A great alternative, if you have an iPhone, is to use Apple Pay. It costs the same to use ($2.75 per ride) but the benefit is not having to worry about misplacing your card or needing to dig it out of your bag to swipe.
- Find your exit before you board.
One of the best ways to ensure a positive experience with the New York City subway system is to find your exit before you board. Knowing the layout of the subway and where you want to get off is essential for feeling comfortable when you’re riding. You should take the time to look up your route ahead of time and figure out where your stop is. This way, you’ll know which train to get on, what car to ride in, and how many stops you’ll have before getting to your destination.
Once you’re on the train, keep an eye on the signs at each stop to make sure you don’t miss your stop! For people that like to listen to music during a commute, keep your music low or have only one earbud in. Sometimes, notifications about delays or reroutes are made via the speakers in the cars. There are even times when the train has to make a final stop before its usual station. You want to be able to hear these announcements and prepare an alternative commute option.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
Always take safety precautions, especially when traveling alone at night! The best way to do that is by being aware of your environment. Knowing who and what is around you can help you to feel more secure. Make sure to stay alert and look around. Notice the people who are on the train with you and how they act. If someone seems suspicious or makes you uncomfortable, try to move away from them. If it’s possible, try to avoid being alone in an empty car. If you ever find yourself in an uncomfortable situation, speak up or move to another car. Pro tip: if possible, try to get into a car with a conductor. Typically, conductors occupy the cars that are in the middle of the train. If there’s an emergency, you can be sure to have a person in the car with you that you can directly report to.
- Hold on tight.
One of the most important safety tips to remember when riding the NYC subway is to hold on tight. This is especially important when the train is in motion, as it can start and stop quickly. It is also important to be mindful of your belongings, as they can easily be taken if you’re not paying attention.
Find a safe spot to stand or sit so that you don’t get pushed around or fall over when the train moves suddenly. If you are standing, try to lean against the pole or wall and keep your feet planted firmly on the ground. This will help to keep you stable and reduce the chance of falling over. If you are sitting, make sure that your bag is tucked in securely so it won’t slide around. Taking these simple precautions can help you stay safe and comfortable while riding the NYC subway.
As I’ve only been here for a few weeks, I’m still far from being a subway-riding pro. However, all these tips and precautions have fooled me into thinking I am! There are still moments when I get on the wrong side of the station or just hop on the wrong train. Sometimes the subway still seems a bit scary. But with the proper preparation and attitude, you can overcome your fear and enjoy the convenience of this unique transportation system. Don’t let fear hold you back from seeing all that the city has to offer!