Endless thoughts run through my head as I find myself sitting on a bustling train to an unknown land. Should I spend my weekend partying with my college friends or maybe study for that 8am exam? Needles to say I find myself asking the question what’s a suburban Virginia gal doing in the city of Philadelphia? My heart starts to beat fast as my stop is drawing near to Jefferson Station, as this would be the first time I stepped off the college campus alone to city full of strangers. I would come to later realize that this would be a life experience for me.

The rushing of people off the train and the amount of doors that were shut on my face amazes me still. Since it was my first trip I figured why not go to Center City, which truly lights up in the night sky. Walking down the street I began to realize that I was simply an ant next to the sky risers. In front of City Hall I recognize a familiar face and as I head closer I began to realize that the face belongs to Philly Jesus. Overly excited that I got to meet him on my first trip I beg him to take a picture with me. It felt like I was 6 years old and I was getting my yearly picture taken with Santa. Which was a family tradition I looked forward to each year. At the end of our mini photoshoot he told me “All your sins are forgiven”. Under my breath I found myself mumbling the words “I haven't forgiven you for not following me back on Instagram.”

My mind begins to wonder back to when i first got of the train and remember seeing signs to Chinatown. I begin to locate my phone and search up directions because in reality who asks for directions anymore when the Apple machine can do it for you. I know my destination is near as the smell of raw fish makes my nose pinch up. At this point i look like a kid at a candy shop as i'm standing in front of the most appalling gate that i would later know it by the Chinese Friendship Gate.

Not only did walking through Chinatown make me more appreciative of other cultures. But i began to realize how diverse and cultural appreciative the city was. By the end of the night I was found reflecting over my first encounter with the city at Penn's Landing gazing over the water. At this point i made it a goal to visit every major part of Philadelphia at all cost.