Final Journal Entry

I had a prior class that I had to spend time exploring few sites in NYC by myself.  It was interesting and flexible time wise.  But I ended up spending too much time with some of the visits because I did not know what to focus and how much information to gather from visiting the sites.  I was excited signing up for this class.  I knew it will be guided tours and I would have professors and other students to discuss what to focus on the visits. 

The experience of this class was wonderful.  If it was not because of this class, I would have never visited MOMA, 5 Pointz, the Strawberry Field, the Poets House, and more.  I loved the amount of walk we did.  The research and reading for the papers and journal entries enhenced my knowledge about NYC.  A lot times, when we have friends and relatives come to New York, they only know places like Ellis Island, Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, 5th Avenue for shopping, etc.  Actually, I probably knew less about NYC than the tourists.  It's a shame living in New York City and not knowing much about the city.  This class helped me a lot to know the history and the neighborhood culture of the city.  It also showed me how much I can do and learn about the city.  I will certainly explore more in the city in the future, either by myself, with family, or guiding visitors. 

My only suggestion for this class is the safety walking in the city.  I joke about following the group.  I exaggerate the fact by saying I either get lost or get hit by a car crossing streets to catch up with the class.  Walking fast is good, but we have to stop periodically for everyone to catch up since we are such a large group.  I indeed got lost a few times and I had to call the professor to catch up with the class.  I was calm because I know how to get around in the city.  If it was someone who has never been in the city by her/himself, it will be terrifying and scary. 

Overall, I give this class an 'A' for the experience I had.  We did more than we thought we could.  For example, everyone walked through Brooklyn Bridge in the heat wave after a long day.  Everyone had a good time walking, talking, and have fun together.  I feel the sense of completion and success after the class is over.  I will miss the group.  Thank you so much for the experience!