It wasn't that I isn't like New York when I got there. It was just so different. Columbia was great, amazing even, but New York was another story. I had no clue how to get around, or where I could get what I needed. I spent my first two weeks just wandering around in circles, waiting for the pity of little old couples and kind business women that seemed to have a Mrs. Robinson or Stacy's mom complex. Those were the people who helped me buy a Metro card (just a temporary one, I would have to figure out what long term one would work for me in the long-term) and helped me with which grocery stores were close by and fair with their prices. I figured it out, it just took a while.

It was just such a culture shock.

Julie,

I'm sorry to tell you that I'm not as terrified as you seem to be. I got to Columbia almost a week ago, and I think I've sort of adjusted. I'm nowhere near being fully settled (but what's the point of being settled when you're in your early twenties?), but terrified I am not. If only I had gotten your email earlier, we could have sympathized with each other. Of course, that could have backfired and we both would have had panic attacks that would resolve in us both being sent home. What kind of fun would that be?

So I'm pretty good. Are you done hiding in your room yet? It's a great school, Jules, don't miss out on it because you're scared or because you don't think you're good enough. Whatever you do, you conquer. But conquering things involves going outside. Feel free to call me if you need help.

See you at Thanksgiving,
Eli