On Being from the East Coast

I’ll be honest, there are a lot of things I miss about the East Coast. I’m from New York City, so I’m used to having everything I could want — restaurants, museums, shops, the New York City Ballet — within walking distance, or accessible by an extensive 24/7 public transportation system. While I was a bit apprehensive about moving to St. Louis, I quickly settled in. The city’s attractions are definitely more spread out — bring a car, or make friends with those who did — but there’s lots to enjoy if you’re willing to look for it. I’m especially glad that the med school is located in the Central West End, a walkable neighborhood with charming architecture and lots of amenities close by (and a convenient Metrolink stop for those times you really need a change of scenery). While I’m planning to move back to the East Coast after medical school, St. Louis is a wonderful place to be a student on a student budget: Here, I can split a gorgeous 1600 square foot prewar two-bedroom/two-bath apartment with a balcony with one roommate and pay $800/month. In New York, that would get me a closet!