Growing up in Valencia, a small suburb about 30 miles north of Los Angeles, I lived among the happy-go-lucky cheer-bots of southern California. With little travel experience outside of the tri-state area (CA, NV, and AZ) and equipped with a strong passion to be as far from my parents as possible, I think my decision to get away from Valencia was a good one.

So, where else should one go when seeking variety, excitement, and pizzazz but New York F***ing City? (I saw that on a shirt once and always wondered when I'd have the chance to use that phrase.) And here I am. As a senior in the College, I've had four years to live in "the city that never sleeps" and, to be honest, there were definite misconceptions about Manhattan that were revealed to me during this time. After four years, there are things about which every person should be forewarned. Here are a few tips for every hopeful New York tourist:

1. New York City does sleep...I promise. And sometimes, way too early.
2. Never expect good service or cleanliness in any restaurant. If you do, you're in for much disappointment.
3. When visiting tourist attractions, always use extra deodorant. (If not for yourself, then at least out of consideration for others, please.)
4. Being "ripped off" or "dry-fisted" is quite commonplace. Please don't feel unique if you experience such a situation.
5. Always remember that common courtesy is a privilege and not a right, for yourself as well as others.

No, I'm really not bitter about New York City. I just know better now than to be so enchanted with it. I'm really happy to have lived here for these past few years, merely because I've done something that not many people have done. And, just to sound contradictory and confusing, there are some really great things about New York City. But, even the really great novelties of New York City wear out really quickly, especially the idea of snow.

So, now equipped with the yearn for good weather, smog, and smiling Denny's waitresses, I will return to Los Angeles this May. Hopefully, hopefully, I will accomplish a first in my life. That is, perhaps I will be able to appreciate where I am, while I'm there. I think that's a pretty good goal.