I arrived in New York in late August 2024, filled with excitement, curiosity, and a bit of nervousness. Coming from Ortisei, a quiet mountain town in Val Gardena, I quickly realised that nothing could have prepared me for the scale, speed, and energy of New York City. The city felt electric. Everyone seemed in a hurry, and there was a constant sense of motion and purpose. Even something as simple as learning how to keep up with the walking speed on the streets became part of the adventure. At first, it was a lot to take in, but once I adjusted to the pace, I started to really enjoy it, and the fast rhythm soon became energising rather than overwhelming.

One of the first cultural differences I noticed was how friendly and open people are in everyday situations. In New York, it’s normal to chat with the barista making your coffee or the cashier at the supermarket. Simple questions like “How’s your day going?” felt unfamiliar at first, but over time, I came to appreciate that human connection. It’s something I’d love to bring back home with me.

What sets New York apart is its incredible variety. You can explore green spaces like Central Park, visit world-class museums like the MoMA and the Met, admire iconic architecture, try food from every corner of the globe, and experience top-tier sports all within a single city. No two days were alike: some days I found myself studying in the beautiful (and quiet!) New York Public Library. Other times, I’d catch a Rangers game at Madison Square Garden or grab a classic dollar-slice pizza late at night. Every moment felt like a scene from a movie and added another layer to my appreciation for the city and its energy.

Academically, the NYU Stern School of Business offered a very different structure compared to what I was used to at unibz. Rather than placing most of the weight on final exams, the program focused on continuous learning. Weekly assignments, group projects, presentations, and tight deadlines kept us constantly on our toes. It was fast-paced and demanding, but also practical and hands-on, in other words, a real “learning by doing” approach. Trial and error, direct application, and collaboration were part of everyday life in the classroom. Despite the intensity, I found the academic environment incredibly inspiring. The professors were highly competent, and the discussions were enriched by the diversity of the student body. I had the chance to work with classmates from all over the world, which not only broadened my perspective but also led to friendships I know will last a lifetime.

One of the most unforgettable moments of the year was graduation day at the Yankee Stadium. Standing in that iconic venue, surrounded by thousands of students in violet caps and gowns, was a surreal and emotional experience. Families filled the stands, cheering for their loved ones, and the entire atmosphere was electric. It felt like something out of a movie and marked the perfect conclusion to an extraordinary year.

There’s a saying that goes, “New York or nowhere.” After living there for a year, I finally understood why. New York isn’t just a city, it’s an experience. It challenges you, inspires you, and somehow becomes a part of you. This year wasn’t just about studying. It was a year that shaped me: I learned just as much walking through the city, sharing moments with classmates from around the world, or figuring things out on my own, as I did in lectures. I returned more confident, more open, and more certain of the kind of person I want to be.

To the Free University of Bozen-Bolzano, NYU Stern, Sparkasse, and everyone who supported me: thank you. This year will stay with me forever. And so will New York.

Author: Tim Linder