Going to college in New York City is a dream come true for those of us who have made Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, or the Bronx our home; it’s the city that is full of excitement, opportunity, and is unlike any other in the world. While it may seem like a Gossip Girl meets romantic comedy mash up from the outside looking in, the reality of being caught up in the hustle and bustle of the city is far from glamourous or romantic at times. Commuting in NYC, especially during the warmer months of the year, is probably one of the least charming experiences of living in the city. Whether you’re on the way to class, your internship, or work, there’s bound to be sweat and some internal and irrational dialogue.
To give you an idea, I’ve compiled a list of the 50 thoughts I’ve had on my most recent commutes.
1. I should have left earlier.
2. *about one block away from my apartment* I already feel the sweat.
3. Three blocks and four avenues seemed A LOT closer in my brain.
4. About 60% sweat right now.
5. I should have never gotten bangs.
6. Maybe I’ll treat myself to a Slurpee.
7. Do they even make Slurpees before 8:00am?
8. BREEZE!
9. Definitely at a much higher sweat to person ratio right now.
10. Are my ears sweating? Can ears sweat?!
11. Going to have to use a facemask tonight.
12. I should have taken a picture to prove I actually put on makeup this morning.
13. Bless waterproof mascara.
14. Why didn’t I bring a towel?
15. In hair v. the elements, the elements always win.
16. Finally made it to the station.
17. Wow SO HOT in here.
18. *Hears Davy Jones from Pirates of the Caribbean* “Do you feel death?”
19. Me: “Yes.”
20. Ok the train is here.
21. AIR CONDITIONING.
22. I have never felt as blessed as I do in this moment.
23. Why does it feel like I’m sweating more now that I’m standing still?
24. What is this sick game?
25. Am I in shock?
26. Uh oh, cute guy on the train.
27. Please don’t look at me I am puddle of sweat.
28. How is that guy over there not sweating?!
29. He is in a full on suit and there is no sign of sweat.
30. Cute guy looked, end me now.
31. Wow so many people got on at this stop.
32. It’s fine, personal space is a social construct here I get it.
33. Yep, that’s my foot you stepped on, still fine.
34. Ok any cooling down that happened has been reversed by all of these people.
35. *catches glance of self in subway window* Oh man.
36. Whatever it’s fine everyone else is sweaty too.
37. Except for that guy in the suit still.
38. Is he an alien?
39. Why do people think they can stop the train doors from closing?
40. Ok I’m in a rush too but I’m not taking it out on you.
41. I have one more stop can you not, please.
42. *sighs* Bye AC, you will be missed.
43. Wow ok this platform is SO HOT.
44. Stairs.
45. I can’t believe I still have to walk five more blocks.
46. Anne Hathaway made commuting look much more fun in ‘The Devil Wears Prada’.
47. She is an actress, I am a peasant.
48. Tbh, my legs are going to fall off.
49. Ok I’m at the building, let’s pretend I’m not a mess.
50. You know what, who cares, I’m living the dream.