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America. The land of the free and home of the brave.
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My study abroad decision marked the start of many new beginnings, both in and out of Philly. I am privileged to have friends in America whom I met through my previous summer schools, and I will be reconnecting with them. One of my friends even recommended that I watch IASIP, the longest running American sitcom. I came to love the sitcom and learned a lot about Philadelphia. Thanks to my friends, I learned so much about America leading up to Spring and it is an honor to spend my last semester in Drexel University. I will be sharing everything about my adventures with my friends; old and new.
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After the longest commercial flight that took 18 hours, I arrived at New York JFK Airport on March 26th, 2024. Experiencing America for the first time, I was mesmerized by its rich cultural tapestry, woven from a myriad of ethnic backgrounds, surpassing even the vivid descriptions from my friends. Times Square exceeded my expectations. The billboards were shining brilliantly, casting a kaleidoscope of colors onto the bustling streets. I was still bummed out that I missed Shakira’s live performance by a few hours. Nevertheless, it was still a magical first night for me in America. I stayed in NYC for a few days before heading to Philly.
In the city that never sleeps, where dreams are made of, I find solace in Taylor Swift’s words, “Welcome to New York, it’s been waiting for you”. In the lively embrace of Koreatown, reminiscent of Seoul’s bustling charm, memories of my summers at KAIST and Yonsei came rushing back. Every step through its streets felt like a heartwarming reunion with my old friends, evoking nostalgia. In the bustling heart of Chinatown, I found a second home amidst the dynamic energy and savory aromas.
Here are some of my favorite spots:
Cheong Fan Cart
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The beloved cheong fan cart, shared with friends, became a cherished spot and a new unforgettable memory.
The prices are undefeatable and the steamed rice noodle dish leaves you wanting more.
Staten Island Ferry
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While primarily a mode of transportation for Staten Island residents, the Staten Island Ferry offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to experience the city’s iconic sights from the waters of New York Harbor. We were also treated to a breathtaking view of the Statue of Liberty and its magnificent symbol of freedom and democracy.
Brooklyn Bridge
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The Brooklyn Bridge offers a breathtaking view that captivates both locals and tourists alike. The bridge unveils the enchanting panorama of Manhattan’s skyline, adorned with towering skyscrapers. Below, the crystalline waters of the East River exudes serenity, providing a tranquil contrast to the bustling scene above.
Every corner resonates with a sense of belonging and endless possibilities. In the rhythm of the concrete jungle, I discovered the magic of NYC. A resounding inspiration. A rekindled flame.
Throughout the rest of the week, cloudy skies and intermittent rain persisted. Despite the unexpectedly cold weather, I had the opportunity to visit several cities along the East Coast, including New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Washington D.C. I would like to extend my gratitude to Sage for driving us around, Rachel for making time and Stephanie for flying in from Los Angeles to meet us. Of course, I will not be able to cover every city in my first blog entry. However, rest assured that I will be recounting my experiences in the upcoming entries, so stay tuned.
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