Your Best Tool for Abroad & Learning English

January 11, 2019

It’s no secret that the winter is the most common time of the year to get sick and physically be less than your best. The dry air and cold temperatures can wreak havoc on your immune system, and on top of that, the subway, your office, and your friends and family are all battling the same germs, so everything just seems to be contagious. I tend to always get sick the first month of the year (too much eggnog? too many holiday cookies, not enough sleep?), so at least I know what to expect! We, as New Yorkers, have to be extra special careful since we spend so much of our days outside commuting and in close parameters of other people – the transfer process is so much easier in the Big Apple!

You can easily keep going with your English practice while you’re doing your best to stay healthy during one of the most contagious times of the year. With plenty of conversation with your doctor and reading up on the latest self-care methods, you can keep your brain healthy in this way! So read on for ways to prepare for January and cold and flu season in January.

1. Treat yourself to a spa treatment

Once upon a time, visiting a spa or a wellness center was viewed as a luxury that few could afford or indulge in. But now, we as a culture are really starting to embrace the self-care movement, and that includes making yourself an appointment at any kind of wellness center that holds your interests. From a massage parlor to Himalayan salt rooms to reiki, any treatment that can relax your body and mind is good for you. New York City can sometimes be a tough place to be, and there can be times where you feel defeated, stressed, or overworked—or maybe all three at once. You can deter the flu or a cold by simply taking care of your body, starting simply with your mind. And what better place to find these services than New York City, the place that has it all! Practice your English reading by filtering Yelp and Groupon for great recommendations and deals in your area.

2. Meditate for mindfulness

This is another example of what I was explaining earlier: meditation used to be considered a practice for those that were a bit on the “dreamy” side. I’ve always been a very realistic and practical person, but as I got older and my responsibilities grew and my stress increased, I started to read up on the benefits. It can be difficult to turn your mind “off,” but I came to realize that whenever I was super stressed and overwhelmed, that was also when my body seemed to shut down. So I tried it. It was hard at first, but if you find the right class or guide (or in my case, the right app), you can put your mind at ease and enjoy the benefit of stillness. Since the whole idea behind meditation is silence and the essence of essentially nothing, you can instead practice your English by listening to your guide or doing research to find the best class.

3. Prep accordingly

Sometimes catching a virus in the winter is simply inevitable and there’s nothing you can do about it. Remember: getting sick is actually essential and strengthens your immune system. So it’s not the WORST thing in the world. But if you want to do your best to avoid it anyways, follow these easy steps:

• WATER: How often do you hear this? Whether it’s eight glasses a day or basically as much as you can, water is the easiest nutrient for you body. It’s a natural tool for flushing your system of toxins and essentially rinsing you out from anything that’s built-up. It’s helpful to always keep a bottle or a glass around you as a reminder to take a sip as often as you can.
• SLEEP: Your body needs its rest. Each person is different, but you should know how much each night benefits your body. Without enough sleep, you might reach for another cup of coffee, which only drains you even more later on. Don’t skimp on this!
• DIFFUSER: In the winter, the air is dry, meaning your skin and sinuses will need a little extra love. For a small investment, get a room humidifier or diffuser that will bring moisture into your living space, which will not only help you sleep, but will help you breathe easier, and you can say bye-bye to those nosebleeds!

December 28, 2018

Listen, I’m going to give it to you straight. January in New York City can be pretty tough. The magic of the holidays is over, and things tend to just go back to normal, which can be kind of sad. On top of that, the weather can be cold and dreary, and I always tend to get sick this month. Snow is no longer fun and beautiful – now it just means that my commute is going to be annoying. In essence, January in New York City is a drag. But, to cheer you up and make sure you don’t fall into this funk, I’ve come up with a few ideas that will keep you entertained for this month.

One of the great aspects of this list is that all of these activities have opportunities for you to put your English skills to use outside of the classroom. By now, you know that living in New York City means you’re around people all the time. This gives you plenty of chances to interact with all those other people that come from all over the world—just like you! New York City is nothing but a giant melting pot of other cultures, so take advantage of being around such great diversity and put your skills to real-life practice!

1. Coney Island Polar Bear Club New Year’s Day Swim; Coney Island Boardwalk; January

Believe it or not, hundreds of people come all the way down to the Coney Island Boardwalk to either watch people plunge into the ocean on New Year’s Day or participate in it themselves. Since it’s a movement that’s fueled by charity, dozens of people truly take the challenge seriously. If you’re willing to stand in freezing temperatures to watch this event, it might be worth it to cough up a few dollars for a good cause: Camp Sunshine, a charity that supports children and their families with life-threatening diseases. It’s surely a great way to nurse your New Year’s celebration hangover and gives you some fresh air. For your English practice, come prepared with your best, “People are crazy!” and you’ll be sure to have a few people in agreement with you! And hey, maybe you’ll summon the courage to participate next year!

2. A Night at the Museum; Museum of Natural History; January 4 and January 25

If you haven’t gotten around to seeing the movie, Night at the Museum, be sure to catch it before the Museum of Natural History hosts its sleepover! While this event can satisfy kids and adults alike, it’s an experience that only New York City can entertain. With plenty of snacks and entertainment and tours throughout the museum, you can really feel like you were part of the movie. (And hey, watching the movie gives you plenty of English practice, too!) Plus, the museum itself is a great place to practice your English reading and speaking skills; with plenty of information to absorb, you can learn tons of cool stuff just by being around other people. So make sure your translation app is up-to-date so you can feel prepared to ask plenty of questions without missing any details.

3. Broadway Week; Broadway; January 21 until February 10

Seeing a live Broadway show is an amazing experience, but the downside is that seeing these shows can often be quite an expensive activity. So that’s why I wanted to highlight this really awesome time of the year for New York City. During this brief period of time, you can get two-for-one tickets to select shows. Get your friends together and start discussing (in English, of course!) which shows you’d all be interested in seeing. From there, do some research on timing and theatres to find the best deal for you, as you’ll of course have plenty of options! And naturally, there’s no better way to put your English listening skills to practice than watching and listening to a live show in English!

Don’t get me wrong: I love living in New York City—it’s just that January can be a little rough with the cold weather and the dreary days. Hopefully these activities will not only keep you entertained, but they’ll also keep you in love with the Big Apple, too. Don’t forget to keep practicing your English, even during one of the coldest months of the year – don’t let your skills get too “frosty!”

November 28, 2018

Living in New York City in the month of December can feel like a constant Christmas carol. From the lights and the music to the shopping and overcrowding at the spectacular tree at Rockefeller Center, it can feel like it’s Christmas for the whole month. No matter how long you’ve been in the Big Apple, you still might be wondering about all that there is to do in this great city in one of the most exciting months of the year. In fact, there are SO many options that it might feel overwhelming.

They say that when you’re in New York City, you’re never really alone, but if you have questions, you might feel nervous to approach strangers for directions or help in translating. All of the events that I’ll be discussing in this post allow you to open up and practice your English speaking skills – and still get you into the holiday spirit in one of the greatest cities in the world.

1. Take advantage of the seasonal tours; all month

Whether you’ve been here in New York City for months or perhaps years, it’s easy to feel like a tourist when you participate in a guided tour around the city, which may discourage you from taking one. But in December, thousands of people flock to NYC to check out the lights and all the festivities that the city has to offer, so there’s no better time to indulge and blend in as an outsider. From bus tours that show you all the holiday lights and holiday movie scenes to cruises that glide you through the river as you catch the cityscape and all of its holiday lights. If you have questions about the city or the holiday or even the culture, now’s your chance to practice your English skills by asking fellow tourists if they know! What better time to blend in?!

2. Bryant Park Winter Village’s Tree Lighting; December 4^th

If you don’t know by now, it’s somewhat of a good idea to avoid Rockefeller Center during the month of December—it’s always packed full of people and sometimes difficult to get a good view. (I recommend going either really early in the morning or if you can hack it, pretty late at night.) For a similar yet more intimate feel, Bryant Park puts on its own tree lighting ceremony, which is just as beautiful. They even put on an ice skating show to partner with the tree lighting, so you’ll be entertained at all angles. There will surely be hundreds of people at this event, so this is another chance for you to interact with others that are still learning the city or come from different cultures. We can all learn from each other!

3. Harry Potter: A History of Magic; New York Historical Society

If you’re anything like me, sometimes I can use a break from the Christmas overload. There are times when I just want to enjoy a normal day without the holiday being all around me, so I included an event that isn’t centered around Christmas. This exhibit displays all of the artwork included on the popular series’ covers, and since the series is celebrating its 20^th anniversary of the US publication, there will surely be many Harry Potter fans in attendance. If you’re a fan of the series and need a break from the overabundance of Christmas setting, be sure to check this event out, as more details continue to come out. And as an added note: if you haven’t read the series, these are great books to invest in for your English reading comprehension. Then, once you finish the books, treat yourself to the movies.

December really is a magical time to be in New York City, and there are always so many wonderful things to see and do during this time of year. It’s fun to get bundled up and listen to all the Christmas cheer and jolly. People tend to spend more money during this time of year due to the tradition of gift-giving, which also means that there will be many pick-pockets out and about. While I’ve always felt safe in this wonderful city, I’ve still always been very aware. So as you’re out and about with your friends this holiday season, practice your English listening skills and always be aware. Just as much as this time of year is the season of giving, there are many that need help, so be alert!

November 14, 2018

Your education at New York English Academy is setting you up for incredible success as a speaker of more than one language. Because it’s also set in the amazing New York City, you’re practically getting a second education—for free! Being in New York City can teach you so many additional lessons, like how to budget in an environment that’s quite expensive, how to socialize and engage with others that have very different backgrounds than you, and of course, how to appreciate that the Big Apple is the land of incredible opportunities.

 

As you may very well know by now, thousands come to New York City to start a new life for themselves because of all the options available. As the center of life for fashion, architecture, the arts, and even literature, the city provides limitless opportunities. If you’re looking to expand your education after your time at New York English Academy with the hopes of going into the sciences, hopefully you’re considering staying in this great city to further your education. Whether you’re looking for a certificate, an Associate’s, Bachelor’s, Master’s, or even your PhD degree, there’s no better place to check out your options than these right here in New York City.

1. Columbia University, Upper West Side

This is probably the largest option for you depending on your interested course of study. With 123 degree programs that specialize in Mathematics and Science, you can easily discover your passion right here in New York City. Columbia is a very well-known and prestigious academic institution, so you can rest assured that you’d be receiving a paramount education. Because this school is so enormous in both size and offerings, Columbia also has a plethora of programs designed for foreign students, so be sure to look into these set-ups so you can take advantage of everything they have to offer.

2. Barnard College, Upper West Side

While this institution is a women’s college, you’ll still have a tremendous amount of program offerings to choose from in the Mathematics and Science fields. While it’s a bit smaller in comparison to other schools in the city, you’ll benefit from the smaller class structure and more intimate ratio of instructor to students. With 36 different programs to choose from, you can speak to an advisor to go over your options so you can feel your program is specially designed for you.

3. New York University, Greenwich Village

This institution, located right in the heart of the trendy Greenwich Village neighborhood of Manhattan, also offers incredible options, should you choose to concentrate in the Mathematics and Sciences fields. NYU offers 65 programs with these foci. Their continuing graduation success for both the undergraduate and graduate level maintains their stellar reputation and continues to attract students from all over the world to attend.

4. Yeshiva University, Washington Heights

Yeshiva University is a Jewish institution that offers traditional Jewish thought and studies as well as 31 diverse Mathematics and Science degree programs. While this campus is a bit of a trek at all the way up at Washington Heights, you can ensure that you can achieve a quality and premier education. With Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral programs available, you can easily invest your extended educational career at Yeshiva.

5. Fordham University, Upper West Side

In the foci of Mathematics and Science, this is another experience that will offer a more intimate relationship with your instructors. As a newcomer to the English language, you can rest assured that you’ll get an in-depth education for both your academic focus as well as your English usage. Since you’ll continue to be surrounded by other English speakers, you’ll have no choice but to pick up the language even more organically.

Advancing your education after New York English Academy is a wonderful decision, and if you haven’t heard this before from your current instructors, education is a phenomenal gift you can give yourself. The easiest and best step you can take next is doing some research on your own when it comes to what you want to study, then figure out the institutions that not only offer your program but have good reviews. It’s always worth it to schedule a meeting with an advisor, as it’s their job to provide prospective students information and address any questions or concerns they may have. Also, be sure to consult the financial aid department, as there are bound to be options for you as an international student as well. Best wishes on your next chapter!

October 31, 2018

By the time November hits, we’re deep into the fall season. The leaves have turned brilliant shades of reds and oranges, the air is crisp with a scent of cool temperatures, and our favorite tastes are catered to with plenty of pumpkin, cinnamon, and apple. Before the season officially changes to winter, I recommend finding outdoor activities to soak up the last of the fall season. Since you’re in the greatest city in the world (in my humble opinion, of course), you won’t run out of any options, and you’re sure to find something that will satisfy your wishes for a social gathering.

If you’re hoping to get some English language practice out of these activities, you’re in luck! All of these events encourage plenty of socialization and engagement. As I’ve mentioned in so many blog posts before, one of the many great advantages of living in New York City is its cultural diversity—this means that no matter what, you’re bound to run into someone else that considers English to be their second language as well. So if you need a little help with translation (or if someone else needs a little help), don’t feel worried about asking someone for help. New York City is a cultural melting pot, always willing to help our fellow neighbor.

1. Fall Forest Weekends; New York Botanical Garden; various weekends in November

It’s no secret that I’m a sucker for beautiful fall foliage. I love the comfort that late fall brings, and I try and spend as much time outdoors as possible before the winter kicks in full-swing and I go into full hibernation mode. This experience in one of the greatest attractions in New York City encourages city-dwellers to take a breath of fresh air and breathe in some green before it goes away. If you’re aching for some photogenic and natural scenic wonders, this is your change! Grab a group of friends to check out this brilliant color-scape. Luckily, there are guided tours available, which will give your English comprehension skills some practice, and if you’ve got questions, here’s your chance to put your speaking skills to use!

2. Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade; various locations, November 22

I’d be silly if I didn’t include this special day. This is one of the events that makes New York City so famous. Every Thanksgiving Day morning, Macy’s puts on an epic parade that glides down Manhattan for everyone to see. The parade is broadcast all over the world, as families across the globe tune in to kick-start their holiday tradition. Starting at 9 am, you can catch this parade in person—starting at 77^th Street at Central Park West and making its way all the way down to Herald Square, you can plan ahead and figure out where to stand if you want to catch a glimpse of the excitement yourself. This is a wonderful time to take advantage of social situations of those around you, as this time of year draws in heavy tourism, so you’re bound to meet people from all over the world looking to catch the same iconic event.

3. Empire State Building Sunrise Experience; Empire State Building; call for timing

While this can really be done any time of year, I just found out that you can do this, so I thought it would be really something to catch this in November before the bitter winter weather sets in. What’s great about this special experience is that you can sign up for this tour and go all the way up to the 86^th floor. Once you’re there, you and your group will be able to watch the sunrise over the incredible Manhattan skyline. This experience might require a deeper dig into your wallet as well as an earlier-than-usual wakeup call, but reviews have claimed that it’s all worth it. If you really want a reminder of just how magnificent this city is, bring your best in-awe English phrases with you to share with your fellow viewers.

November is a gorgeous month in New York City, as you still have reasonable weather that cooperates for outdoor weather, and it’s also the kick-start to a lot of wonderful holiday celebrations. These events absolutely allow you to put your English skills to use, as you’ll want to share your experiences with those around you. Before winter kicks in and you feel the inevitable need to stay indoors in the comfort of your home, be sure to check out these awesome November activities!

October 10, 2018

Your time at the New York English Academy has probably prepared you for all sorts of things. Perhaps it’s your first time away from home, and you’re being forced to learn your own version of independence. By staying in New York City, you’ve probably also learned a completely different lifestyle than you’re used to—after all, there’s no place like the Big Apple, and everyone that moves here has to adjust on their own terms and in their own way. Another transition, and probably the most important, that you’re adjusting to is the new language. That’s why you came to this institution after all, right?

From classroom studies to real world application, my hope with this blog was to help you incorporate your learned skills into the world in which people interact with one another with the English language. You might have found that some experiences were easier than others, and part of that was probably due to your own self-imposed insecurities and intimidations. I wanted to keep reminding you that so many other people living in this great city have come from other countries as well and have learned to adapt as a bilingual citizen. New York City, as I have mentioned multiple times over the months, is a cultural melting pot full of various backgrounds and other languages. So never be afraid to ask for help or guidance.

If you’re thinking about your next move after your time with the New York English Academy is complete, you may be pondering furthering your education at a four-year university. Many students come to New York City with the hopes of pursuing a degree in the humanities. Since there is a huge focus on the arts here, like dance, music, the performing arts, and even fashion, many of the schools here have included these areas of studies in their portfolio. I’ve rounded up some of the best institutions that offer humanities programs so you can start thinking about your next move in New York City.

1. Columbia University in the City of New York, Upper West Side

While this school is a private university, I included this institution at the top of the list because of the tremendous programs it offers. With over 25 humanities programs available from Art History, French Philology, Religion, and foreign languages, you can easily enhance your collegiate study with one of the programs offered at this university. Whether you’re looking for a Certificate program or looking to advance further with a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or even a Doctorate, Columbia will guarantee you a quality education in the humanities.

2. Barnard College, division of Columbia University, Upper West Side

This academic center is another great option for you if you’re considering an education in the humanities. You can choose to minor or major in the concentrations of Women’s Studies, Spanish & Latin American Cultures, Music, English, or even Dance. If you speak with an advisor, you can discuss how you can diversify your education by choosing separate minors and majors. (When I went to college, I started with a separate minor and major, but then as I went along, I chose to bump my minor to a major, so I double-majored, which only helped my qualifications when I start the job-hunting process. Your options are quite broad!)

3. Fordham College, Lincoln Center

This is another great option if you’re thinking about pursuing a degree in the humanities. With similar fields of concentration in which you can minor or major in, you can feel the freedom to really explore your options and dive into studies that you never thought possible. Did you know you can minor in Fashion Studies? How about getting a degree in Film and Television? Since this institution’s location is in one of the most fashion-forward and art-centered areas of New York City, it’s no wonder this school develops their programs to reflect this cultural hub. Might as well take advantage of it!

Education is one of the greatest gifts we can give yourselves. With a variety of financial options available depending on your level of need, you can easily entertain the thought of a certificate program, a Bachelor’s degree, a Master’s degree, or even an advanced Doctorate. All it takes is a phone call to the admissions office to set up an appointment. With this conversation, you can ask about areas of study, the application process, timing, cost of living, etc., so you can be fully prepared if this is your next step.

September 28, 2018

October is one of my favorite times of the year, especially in New York City. Fall is in full swing, which means I can be more comfortable in my knit sweaters, enjoy seasonal coffee beverages, and embrace the changing colors of my scenery. I just overall feel more calm and relaxed – who knew the weather could do that?? I tend to take more walks in Central Park so I can enjoy the fall foliage and take tons of pictures worthy for Instagram. Of course, one of the most popular events of the month (well, maybe even the whole season) is of course Halloween, and you won’t have any trouble finding any kind of activity in relation to this holiday. Instead, I’ll focus on all the other things you can do this month in New York City so you can embrace the best month on the year.

If you’re willing to put your English skills to use this month, there are tons of ways you can put your learnings to practice in the real world. Interacting with others is the best way to test out what you’ve learned, and never forget that New York City is a huge cultural melting pot. This means don’t feel intimidated or nervous to ask others for help in translating or navigating your way around. While New York City is essentially a blip on the map, it’s still an epicenter of its own, so don’t be afraid!

1. New York Coffee Festival, October 12-14, 2018

If you need a break from the bar scene (like I do), this is a great way to learn more about one of our most prized possessions: coffee! If you’re anything like me, coffee is a necessary fuel that helps any kind of productivity and energy maintenance, and it’s an interest that I’m always willing to explore. I’ve wanted to attend this event since moving to NYC but just haven’t made it yet, but this year I’ll be there! I plan on learning about more blends and coffee-making methods, and I hope to enjoy plenty of local samples. The event will also keep you entertained with tons of street food, learning demos, and live music. Bring your friends and meet new people—practice your English by asking other event-goers about their favorite brew, what they’ve learned, or simply strike up a conversation.

2. Open House New York Weekend, October 12-14, 2018

This is one of those events that is highly regarded in New York City, as it’s a celebration for historic buildings, architectural legends, and new sites. It’s a chance for New Yorkers that have a passion for architecture to view locations and sites that are normally shut down or off-limits for the general public. Do some research before committing to this event, as some locations require a reservation. You’ll be able to practice your English social skills here, as you’ll be interacting with dozens of other passionate fans of traditional and modern buildings alike, and what’s even better is the organization’s philanthropic effort in putting on this event, so it might be helpful to bring your checkbook.

3. The Accomplice, weekends in October

This event falls in the category of interactive entertainment that seems to be all the rage now. Similar to Escape the Room, this is a theatrical experience that will take you about all parts of New York City, depending on where you’d like to explore. There are tons of options available, as you can go on scavenger hunts with friends and simultaneously see parts of the city that you have never explored before. While this event can be on the pricier side, the whole experience lasts a little over 3 hours, and the reviews prove that it’s worth every penny. You can practice your English comprehension by interacting with the improv actors and meeting other excited event-goers. Before you know it, you’ll be looking up other ticket availabilities for the next show.

There are so many amazing things to do in New York City, and October is one of the best (and last of the year) to enjoy all kinds of activities outdoors. You can watch the leaves change color, feel comfortable with warm days and cool nights, and give your seasonal English skills some practice. Grab some of your friends and start exploring the city before it gets too cold and you start to feel the urge to hibernate!

September 12, 2018

No matter how long you’ve been with New York English Academy, your relationship with New York City is probably exciting and quite exhilarating. Not only are you getting some great education in the field of English language, but you’re located in one of the greatest cultural melting pots in the world—it’s like getting two educations at once! You also may be thinking ahead in terms of your next stop once your time at the Academy is complete, and perhaps you’re thinking of furthering your education at one of the college campuses in New York City. Here are a few that are ranked the highest in terms of reputation, cost of tuition, and help in language studies. Since you’re already here in the city, scheduling a tour or an appointment will be a breeze, so take some notes, do some independent research, and let your curiosity run wild!

1. City University of New York (CUNY), all 5 boroughs

I included this campus first because not only is it the only public university system in the city, but there are over 24 CUNY campuses located in all of the 5 NYC boroughs. Depending on your academic level and area of focus, you’re more than likely to find the campus that caters to your individual interests and needs. Plus, with so many locations amidst the city limits, this offers you tons of access to local resources and programs to help you with your academic journey.

2. The New School, East Village

If your academic focus leans towards the liberal arts (music, performance, drama), social research, or design, this is a great option for you, especially since approximately 30% of the students are international. The location in the city is also ideal if your field of focus matches the above since there is tons of artistic culture in this pocket of the city. Plus, a pretty cool bonus is there are tons of famous alum that attended The New School, so keep your eye out for some well-known faces!

3. New York University (NYU), Greenwich Village

This is another well-known academic institution that places great focus and attention to international studies. With quite a few branch campuses beyond the US borders, NYU also has an impressive study abroad program and a strong international student population. Again, depending on your area of study, you’ll more than likely be able to find a program that fits for you. While the main campus is around Washington Square in Manhattan, there are a few other locations within the city limits.

4. Columbia University, Upper West Side

Just like NYU, you’re probably already aware of this institution due to its huge presence within not only New York City, but within the higher academic community overall. While this university is considered Ivy League, don’t let that intimidate you from checking it out to see what it has to offer to you. I included this campus because Columbia has the third-largest international student population of any US university—that’s 35% of its students coming from other countries. While so many of the New York City college campuses focus on the liberal arts, Columbia offers the full subject curriculum, so you’re sure to find your area of study no matter what.

5. Stevens Institute of Technology (SIT), Hoboken, NJ

Even though this campus is technically not in NYC, I wanted to include SIT because it’s a great university for those with an engineering, science, or technology concentration. With easy access to (and great views of) Manhattan, you can attend this university while still getting a genuine New York City experience. If you’re undeclared, this is still a great institution, as it also offers degrees in the arts and humanities, so be sure to keep this campus in mind if you’re making your rounds. BONUS: living in New Jersey can save you tons of money for living and general expenses, so keep that in mind while taking your tours.

Considering where you may want to study when your time at New York English Academy is complete is a lot to think about, so be sure to do tons of research on program availability, financial aid and scholarships, as well as international programs if you consider another country home. Now that you’re pretty familiar with New York City, you should feel confident in exploring all the amazing campuses that the Big Apple has to offer. Why not continue your learning in one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world?

August 29, 2018

September is one of my favorite months of the year, no matter where I’m at. The heavy heat of the summer finally breaks, and there’s a comfortable breeze that seems to just relax me. I find that I spend a lot more time outdoors this month instead of couping myself indoors with air conditioning, so get ready for all the activities that New York City has to offer in September. Bring a jacket, since the weather is transitioning this month from lingering summer heat with cool autumn wind.

If you don’t know by now from previous posts, I’m a big proponent of practicing your English skills with those around you. New York City is one of the biggest cultural melting pots in the world, so it’s going to be incredibly easy to find those similar to you all around, and New Yorkers are always willing to help someone out, whether it’s helping with directions, suggesting places to go, or even aiding in reading English. Don’t be shy—you’re in the best place to be to put your English skills to use!

1. 29Rooms, Thursday, September 6 – Sunday, September 9 and Thursday, September 13 – Sunday, September 16, Brooklyn

If you’re into fashion at all, you know that September in New York City is quite an exciting time. The magazines are covered with the best in the best, designers push out their newest collections, and celebrities and models are just a bit easier to spot this time of year. This event is a huge one, and luckily, it’s a chance for tons of artists, brands, and even celebrities to showcase their seasonal favorites. Tickets are pretty reasonable, starting at $39 for general admission. Grab all your fashion-forward friends and head down to this Instagrammable location. You might learn a few new English words that have been put into hashtags—yet another way to practice your English via social media.

2. Vendy Awards, Saturday, September 22, Governer’s Island

I may be a bit biased about this event, as I went last year to help with the event, and even then it was still a blast. This occasion celebrates all the best street food (and drinks) that New York City has to offer with limitless sampling opportunities. From Jamaican and Indonesian food to cocktails and desserts, you’ll be sure to get all your taste buds satisfied. After a quick and scenic ferry ride from lower Manhattan, you can interact with tons of other event-goers. Be sure to ask them where they got that beer or their favorite truck so far so you can put your English skills to use. What’s even better is that since so many of the trucks are multi-cultural, this is your chance to perhaps help others with their English as well!

3. Queens County Fair, Saturday, September 22 – Sunday, September 23, Floral Park

As if I haven’t made it clear enough, fall is hands-down my favorite season of the year, so fall festivals just make the season even better. From hayrides to pie eating contests to live music, this annual fair has it all to fulfill your all your autumn-kickoff interests. The location is a bit out of the city, but it’s totally worth the trip to get your nature fix. Practice your English skills by interacting with other fair-goers and embrace your inner nature fan!

4. Free Summer Movies, all September, all NYC boroughs

One of my absolute favorite things to do in New York City is catch free movies in some of the coolest parks in the main boroughs. Doing this not only allows me to revisit some of my favorite movies, but it’s so amazing to be able to do so in some of the most iconic parks. This is a great activity (and free!) to do with friends or even for date night. And if you’re practicing your English, watching American movies is an easy (and quite mindless) way to put your skills to use.

September is the unofficial kick-off to fall, so pack up your swimsuits and unpack your light jackets – the lighter weather is such a treat in New York City after so many months of heavy heat. If you’re new to the English language, all these activities will put your skills to use by allowing you to interact with others while still having a blast in the best city in the world. Next month, get ready for even more adventures!

August 15, 2018

When I moved to New York City, I thought one of the luxuries I’d be sacrificing was a cool place to swim on the hot days. I had access to parents’ inground pool, and the gym that I belonged to had a pool that I could use to practice my laps or just to chill down after a long workout. Because the Big Apple doesn’t have a lot of free space to devote to for inground pools, you’d think it’d be difficult to find a public place to cool off at, but with this quick list below, you can find relief from the August heat without having to drop serious cash or travel for miles just to get to a pool.

For those of you that are practicing your English skills, this is a great way to put your conversation habits to use. Depending on the size and options of the pool that you go to, you can ask people how else they’re keeping cool, if they can recommend some other local pools, or what else they do to stay busy in the summer in New York City. Since everyone else in the city limits are doing everything they can to stay cool, you’ll be in great company!

1. Astoria Pool, Astoria

When it comes to size and availability, this is the best option for you. This pool is seriously HUGE, and while there are bound to be tons of people there, you’ll still be able to cool off and enjoy the perks of a pool in the city. Another cool detail about this pool is its location within the larger Astoria Park, which includes multiple playgrounds, tennis and basketball courts, and walking trails. This way, you can make a whole day at the park with your friends, which of course, lends even more opportunities for you to practice your English.

2. Hamilton Fish Pool, Lower East Side

If you prefer to stay in Manhattan, this public pool is your best option. Located conveniently off the FDR Drive, you and your friends can enjoy this Olympic-sized pool. Pack your sunscreen and towel and create some fun English-practice games while in the water to make your learning fun. Plus, when you’re having fun, it won’t feel like you’re practicing!

3. McCarren Park Pool, Greenpoint

If you live in Brooklyn and want to stay somewhat close to home, check out this huge pool in Greenpoint. This pool is a popular destination for families and adults alike, so you can rest assured that you’re surrounded by people that are looking to have fun and still feel cool. Another advantage to this location is the surplus of chairs and space to spread out your towels for some sunbathing. An insider tip: This is a popular destination, so either come early or pick your days strategically!

4. John Jay Pool, Upper East Side

I’m biased with my pick on this one simply because it’s in my neighborhood and tends to attract the locals in Yorkville and the Upper East Side. A bit smaller than the rest of the pools listed here, this location is a bit more intimate as families come to bring their kids for a quick dip. If you’re looking for more of a quite experience, check out this spot. My favorite aspect of this pool is that it’s lined with trees so it makes it feel even more like a private experience!

5. Hotel rooftops, call around

If you want to avoid the free public pools and don’t mind paying a small fee (it varies depending on the hotel), contact a few hotels in the neighborhood you’re interested in to see how they allow non-guests to use their facilities. There tends to be a few rules and regulations with these destinations since they’re a popular destination, but in my experience, it can be seriously worth it to be on a rooftop in New York City and see all the views while you’re cooling off in a pool. And of course, conversing with the hotel manager is a great way to practice your formal English skills!

It’s no doubt that August is tough in New York City. Our winters are brutal, and so are our summers! Don’t fret though—the Big Apple has plenty of options when it comes to ways of keeping cool. From public pools to private rooftop pools, you can’t go wrong! Stay cool out there!