I’ve always wanted to learn how to drive. Unfortunately for me, most of my friends live in Queens while I live in Brooklyn. I could always take the train but it takes about an hour to get there (and that’s on a good day). I got my permit the moment I turned 16…and I still have that permit at 21 years old. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve been behind the wheel of a car many times but I haven’t enough to take my road test. There are a few reasons why I have neglected to take the next step and get my license:
I live in New York, the city that never sleeps, which includes its extensive transportation system. The trains are convenient and are less expensive than a car. A monthly MetroCard costs around $116 and will get me to wherever I need to go. Admittedly, the NYC trains are notoriously slow and delayed, and these days they seem to be a bit more dangerous than when I was in high school. But, when the trains are running on time they are perfect. Though, they can be a little gross, hot, and unsanitary, but it’s cost effective and easy way to get from place to place.
Another reason I haven't learned how to drive is that I just don’t have the time. I’m away at college for most of the year and there is no one to teach me at Amherst. Sure, manymost almost all of my friends have their license but they also lead busy lives and don’t have the time to teach me. More importantly, no one has a car; zip cars are always an option but I wouldn’t want to crash someone else’s zip car and get them into trouble. When I come home on holidays and for the summer I still don’t have time. During holidays I just want to relax and take a break from college work and during the summer I usually work. Learning to drive is a big time commitment but I haven’t committed the needed time to it just yet.
Lastly, between you and me, I think I am a little afraid. The few times I have been between the wheel I was riddled with anxiety and stress. I was afraid I was doing something wrong, that I would crash into someone, that someone would crash into me. My absolute worst fear is getting into an accident. The road is a dangerous place and I guess my first few stressful experiences driving have scared me. I would definitely like to be less anxious when I start actually driving.
All and all I think that getting my license will be an amazing experience. I’ll be able to gain a little more freedom. However, with this great freedom comes great responsibility and I’m not sure I’m completely there yet.
