For as long as I can remember, I have always loved exploring cities. Growing up, I was lucky enough to live in a suburb just 15 minutes from downtown Minneapolis, Minnesota. Although Minneapolis wasn’t as big and exciting as Chicago or New York City, our small midwest city was still bigger and better than the suburbs. As a little girl, excitement would circulate around my body watching the cars and people zoom by. My eyes glanced up in awe to see the tall buildings. Since then, I still get the same feeling when I walk through a city. I’ve got the city bug and can’t imagine living anywhere else. Currently, I live in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Although it is smaller than Minneapolis, it’s still a city. In my 3 years of living in the city, here’s what I’ve learned and how it’s prepared me for an even bigger city lifestyle.
Public Transportation
Yes, it’s a pain, but if you’re living in the city and without a car, you don’t have any other option. I unfortunately don’t have access to a car, therefore the bus is my most reliable source of transportation. I take the bus to get to and from work, to get my groceries, to go to the mall, and to run any other errands. What I have learned is to just keep to myself. Many of my friends don’t prefer to ride the bus, which is understandable, but I tell them all they have to do is put their headphones in, look out the window and keep to themselves. What’s even better, almost everyone else on the bus is doing the exact same thing. You’ll find less problems if you just mind your own business and focus on getting from point A to point B (even if the bus sometimes smells like urine). Welcome to city life!
So Many People, So Many Backgrounds
Like any city, there are people everywhere, from everywhere. Milwaukee is lucky enough to be one of the most diverse cities in the Midwest. People who live here come from so many different backgrounds and cultures. It’s no wonder this city has a festival for every different culture and ethnic background! I work at a coffee shop and no matter what a person’s background is, everyone shares the same universal love for coffee. Sometimes it’s hard to hear a customers order when they have a strong accent. Living in the city has taught me about patience and respect towards everyone of every background. It can be frustrating trying to communicate with those of a different background then you, but it’s something that comes with living in a city. Everyone is looking for the same, big, and bright opportunities as you are.
You’re Never Bored
3 years ago, when I was making the decision on which college to attend after a high school, a city school was at the top of my list. I knew I had to go to a school in an urban setting because I was hungry for urban adventures. On a Sunday afternoon, I am constantly texting friends asking if they want to go explore downtown or hidden neighborhoods with me. We find something new every time we leave our own neighborhood. Whether it’s discovering a new restaurant, a new shop, or a new cafe, there’s always something new to explore. No matter what season it is, you will always be able to find something to do.
As I begin to wrap up my college experience and wonder where I’ll end up next, an urban location again, is at the top of my list. I am now so much more confident then I was 3 years ago when I left my suburban hometown. I now know the do’s and don’t’s of city life. I’m prepared to take on a bigger and more exciting city.