I ❤️ NYC

on my first trip to the big apple, and the resurgence of my ambitions

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Part 1: Awakening in New York

I needed this trip more than I realized. For so long, I was confined to my room, circling the same streets of my little borough in London, convinced that I had somehow "arrived." The monotony dulled my mind, blunted my ambitions, and left me trapped in a perpetual loop of complacency. As much as I love it, London had become a backdrop to a life that no longer inspired me.

When my mum urged me to book a flight to New York, I hesitated. Financial anxieties gnawed at me—could I afford this? Logistical worries plagued my thoughts—where would I stay? How long would I be away for? Who would I see? What would I see? What about uni? Work? But then, the power of friendship shone through. Mr. and Mrs. Troy, teachers who have both played pivotal roles in my life, offered to host me and help me figure out a few of my logistical difficulties, while we also connected for the first time in a long while. Their generosity eased my worries, and before I knew it, I was airborne, leaving the familiar behind.

Stepping into New York City felt like a jolt of electricity. NYC is nothing like London. The towering skyscrapers, each a marvel of architectural brilliance, kept my eyes glued upward. The city pulsed with life; it was as if every street corner buzzed with its unique energy. Strangers weren't just faces in a crowd—they were beautiful inside and out. People helped me navigate the labyrinthine subway system, shared smiles, and even snippets of their lives. It was a breath of fresh air; NYC was alive in a way I'd never experienced.

Walking the Brooklyn Bridge, the skyline unfolded before me like a promise. Times Square in the evening was a kaleidoscope of lights and sounds, a sensory overload that left me both dazzled and introspective. From the solemn reflection at the 9/11 Memorial to the grandeur of Grand Central Terminal, every place I visited—DUMBO, Central Park, Rockefeller Center—added a new layer to my understanding of this vibrant city.

Part 2: Rediscovering Inspiration

This journey wasn't just about exploring a new city; it was about reigniting a part of myself that had been dormant. Back in my early days, being around great minds at my high school alongside opportunities that gave me exposure to a few prestigious higher-ed academic institutions around the world fuelled an unrelenting academic drive. But over time, especially after arriving at Imperial, that flame dimmed. I picked up terrible habits—stopped dreaming big, settled for the ordinary, tried not to stand out too much, and lost sight of myself while fighting imposter syndrome.

The summer internship with Prof. Aron Walsh was the turning point. He believed in me enough to support my UROP, reigniting my passion for impactful scientific work. I started to enjoy maths again, immersing myself in podcasts where experts dissected neural nets and deep learning. I watched lectures, built projects, collaborated with others and felt that familiar thrill of learning something new and contributing to the world.

New York amplified this transformation. The city's relentless pace mirrored the resurgence of my ambitions. Walking down Wall Street, I could almost feel the heartbeat of global finance and innovation. Visiting the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty reminded me that grand visions can become reality. The city's energy was infectious, propelling me to think bigger and reach higher.

Part 3: Embracing the City

New York keeps you looking up—literally and metaphorically. The skyscrapers aren't just buildings; they're symbols of ambition and possibility. Everyone here seems to be moving with purpose, a collective momentum that sweeps you along. I thought London had made me a fast walker, but in NYC, I found myself quickening my pace just to keep up.

Brooklyn, especially Bed-Stuy, stole my heart. I ventured there not just as a tourist, but as a pilgrim seeking the roots of something deeply personal. The streets—Nostrand Ave, Myrtle, Bedford—are more than just names; they're landmarks in the history of hip-hop, a genre that's an integral part of who I am. Walking those streets, seeing the murals, and absorbing the culture was both humbling and exhilarating.

Bed-Stuy offered a stark contrast to the gleaming towers of Manhattan. It was quieter, more grounded—a reminder that New York isn't just a monolith of wealth and glamour. There are neighbourhoods rich in culture yet often overshadowed by stereotypes. Despite the connotations, places like Bed-Stuy are home to incredible individuals and the heartbeat of movements that have shaped the world.

As I sat in little pizzerias like Percy's, Vezzo, and Joe's, strolled through the West Village, and marvelled at the architectural wonders, I felt a profound connection to the city. New York wasn't just a destination but an experience that touched every facet of my being.

I went to New York, and it felt like a series of dates with someone I could see a future with. Each day unveiled new surprises, deepening my affection and appreciation. Though our time was short, I know there's so much more to discover. We're already planning a second date, and this time, the relationship feels promising—like something that could grow into a lifelong love affair. But for now though:

Special thanks to the Troys for hosting me, picking me up and dropping me off at the airport(and picking me up from Lehigh), showing me around, helping me organize my trip, and showering me with all the love, hugs, laughs and support these past few years. To Athiel; for inviting me down to Bethlehem, PA to attend LeLaf, hosting me and (with Lauryn) ensuring I had a rocker of a weekend and a solid intro to American college nightlife(when I recover I’ll probably write about this too haha), and for the friendship we continue to share.