Lauren Denker
Year: 2019
Major: Public Relations
Going away to college can be both exciting, yet surprisingly terrifying at the same time. While some students come from states two or three hours away, others make their trek all the way across the country, and sometimes even halfway across the globe, in order to attend their dream school.
Lauren Denker was familiar with the East Coast before attending Hofstra due to frequently visiting family in New York. “I wanted a change of pace and I’ve always loved New York City,” Lauren said of her decision to attend a school almost 3,000 miles away from her hometown of Marin, California. “It’s cool being on a college campus, but still having a major city so close by. And I always have family close to school just in case I ever get homesick.”
Some people might not realize how everyday life is ultimately determined by where we’re located on the map – whether it be the foods we eat, how we speak, or even style and fashion trends. Making the transition from life on the West Coast to living on the East Coast called for some eye-opening adjustments. “Well for starters, coming to the East Coast made me miss Mexican food; it’s way better in California. Another thing I noticed is that places are always open later here, especially in the city, as opposed to near me where things close pretty early. There’s a lot more to do on the East Coast, but there aren’t many outdoor things to do like hiking—that’s something I always did back home. I noticed that style and wearing brand names is a bigger deal on the East Coast than in California, and the weather is definitely very different.”
For many students going to school far from home, the first time they are able to see their family and friends since leaving for the fall semester is Winter break. “This was my first time coming home since summer, although my parents were able to come out and visit during the first semester. It was nice finally being able to see my whole family, including my dog. I’ve been able to have tons of good food since I’ve been home, like Mexican food and avocados! I swear the East Coast doesn’t have avocados.”
Winter break is the perfect time to just relax and catch up with friends, as well as some much needed sleep. “It’s definitely been nice just getting a break, being home and getting to do things I can’t do in New York, but I miss the city and I can’t wait be back with my Hofstra friends.”