People have a lot of different opinions about Rochester, both good and bad. Ever since I was old enough to drive, I’ve spent my days and nights getting to know this city. I’d like to be able to say that I know it like the back of my hand, but it is constantly offering me new experiences and surprising me in new ways. Rochester has a lot to give and I’m trying my best to soak it all in like a sponge. Here are some lessons that I have taken away from my time in the city that I believe are important enough to put down in words.

1. Embrace Your Individuality

Growing up in a small suburb, I always tried to fit in rather than stand out. As a young teenager, I did everything I could to be the same as those around me. Everyone wore the same clothes from Hollister and did their hair the same way. As I grew older and gained confidence, this mentality began to change and I had a desire to be an individual. Getting out of my suburb and into the city opened my eyes to a world of unique individuals. In a city like Rochester, it’s okay to be covered in tattoos. It’s okay to wear whatever you like and do your hair however you like. Individual expression is not always encouraged in small towns, but once I started spending time in downtown Rochester, I realized that being the same is very boring and that variety is the spice of life. In other words, let your freak flag fly.

2. Art Has The Power To Transform

I really believe that the giant murals located throughout downtown Rochester, most of which are a product of Wall Therapy, have given new life to this city. The creativity of talented artists has turned Rochester into an even more beautiful and colorful place. And let’s face it, the world looks better with a splash of color. Around every corner, you are likely to see a unique piece of art decorating the side of a building. The murals of Wall Therapy give me a new reason to get out and explore my city, but they have more important functions as well.

Here in Rochester, they physically rehabilitate buildings and provide new energy to the somewhat drab city streets. People walking by are likely to be inspired in some way or at least feel some sort of emotion. Interestingly, Wall Therapy has a sister initiative that provides diagnostic imaging sites to developing countries. So in more ways than one, the street art in Rochester is changing lives.

3. Get Outside of Your Comfort Zone

Many people who spend time downtown get stuck on Park Ave or in the East End. These areas are great, but there is so much more to see. It might be a little scary to venture outside of these areas if you haven’t before; I felt like a lost puppy the first few times I explored other areas. After getting out of my comfort zone, I found so many cool new places that I never knew existed. The South Wedge, High Falls, Corn Hill, and true “downtown” (by this I mean the Dinosaur BBQ, Blue Cross Arena area) have become some of my favorite spots. Yes, we feel safe and comfortable walking on Park Ave, but I feel much more alive when I walk through the old subway system. I have learned that it’s good to feel your heart pumping, sometimes.

4. Support Your Local *insert noun here*

In Rochester, we’re basically a family. Families support each other. Living in the area, I have learned that if you’re not supporting the local business/ musician/ artist/ actor/ athlete/ clothing boutique/ record store/ bookstore/ coffee shop/ any other local place, you’re doing this city living thing wrong. Go see the local band that’s putting on a concert at Water Street, because they are probably very talented and you might hear them on the radio in a year.

If you haven’t heard of Joywave, they’re a Rochester band who is getting national attention. I have learned that when I forgo Starbucks for a local coffee shop, like Spot or Cafe Sasso, I get better coffee and a better experience. It’s also nice knowing that you’re helping small business owners succeed. Without the support of the community, local businesses and dreamers would not get very far.

5. Form Your Own Opinions

Two words: garbage plate. People from outside the area often can’t be convinced to even taste this dish, but if you’re a local, you can’t get enough. This crazy meal has become very popular in the area because people were able to look past the name and give something different a chance. The concept of the garbage plate has taught me that you have you to be your own judge of things and not let labels or society’s influence create an opinion for you before you have had the chance to form your own. The garbage plate sounds like trash but it’s actually delicious when you give it a try; this is a lesson that can be applied to other things in life. It’s important to look past superficial qualities in order to truly get to know someone or something.