Hello there! My name is Shuyi and I'm a '23, which means it's my senior year here at Dartmouth! Follow me for my last year at Dartmouth as I reflect upon my college experience. At Dartmouth, I enjoy playing squash, eating at late night, and of course, blogging. You can ask me about studying social sciences, coming to Dartmouth as an international student, and anything else really. I hope you enjoy the blog!
After two months in Hanover, I have made great friends, extraordinary memories, and enjoyed learning in and out of the classroom. As a city boy, however, I also found myself starting to miss the big city. Fortunately, being at Dartmouth not only means being able to appreciate everything a rural and outdoor setting has to offer, but also convenient transportation options to the cities near the college. Therefore, I decided to take a quick trip to New York City last weekend.
Joe's Pizza - worth the wait!
I took the Dartmouth Coach, which is a very accessible option all students can take to travel. After a five-hour bus ride that featured beautiful views of the New England foliage, I was in New York City! I immediately noticed the skyscrapers, bright lights, and loud city noises that had almost become unfamiliar to me. Although I enjoyed being around the city atmosphere, I also found myself missing the calm and intimate nature of Dartmouth. Throughout the weekend, I reconnected with old friends, sharing our college experiences and enjoying delicious food.
My friend's cat, the cutest thing I've ever seen
As I talked to my friends about what it was like to study in New York, I gained a new appreciation for everything that made Dartmouth special. My friends enjoyed going to school in the city but remarked that they missed the close community we had at high school. At a big school in the city, it was difficult to develop strong relationships with a range of people, and so they often felt confined to their friend groups. I reflected on my time at Dartmouth, and although I did miss my high school community, the community at Dartmouth was definitely something that I felt connected to. Understanding that not everyone can enjoy a college community, I am even more grateful for the intimate feel that Hanover had naturally given the college.
One of the main reasons I chose to come to Dartmouth was the rural setting, as it was different from what I had known my entire life. At the same time, one of my biggest concerns about coming to Dartmouth was the rural setting, as it was different from what I had known my entire life. After two months at Dartmouth, I am happy to report that Hanover has been everything I hoped it would be. The beautiful sights, accessible outdoor activities, and intimate community has made my time here so special. However, for anyone who isn't sure about the rural setting like I was, you can be reassured that the city is only a bus ride away, available any time you want it.
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