Advantages of Living in a Big City - Samantha Wipperman

Blog Post Week 9

Advantages of Living in a Big City

            Coming from a decently sized Metropolitan area in Iowa I thought I was prepared for practically everything that would happen in a city the size of Denver.  In some respects I was prepared for the number of people that I would encounter daily but besides that Denver has surprised me in many ways. On the day we arrived to the city we were welcomed by rush hour. Not the best welcome but one of the essential experiences of living in the city. Due to this first experience I have walked to work everyday. It is a great way to start the day and gives time to think and wind down at the end of the day.

             Most people would see this traffic as a disadvantage; but I find it something different entirely.  This traffic forces you to walk around the city and really experience the culture, the people and the amazing places you would never see driving by in a car. This is something I would encourage any city dweller to do. Get out of your home and experience all of the great things that a city has to offer. In doing this I have been to some of the best restaurants I have ever been to. Many of which are small and unnoticeable when driving by in a car. Specifically, Emilio’s served some of the best Mexican food. Beyond this there are pizza, hot dog and breakfast places that are some of the best places to eat but would never be noticed if it weren’t for the people who take the time to walk down the street. 

            Once you have made it out on to the street and taken the time to go into that ‘hole in the wall’ restaurant I encourage you to do something else. Talk to the people that are on the street. Not only will it make their day, but also, it will teach you about the resiliency and love that people have for one another. Everyone has his or her own story and each one is unique, interesting and amazing. I encourage you to do this due to several experiences of my own. Walking down the street I was stopped at a crosswalk by an older gentleman who was nearly blind. He needed help to get across the street. Once I had finished helping this man he turned to me, asked my name and then proceeded to tell me he would pray for me that day.

             For class, we were also required to attend the Point in Time Survey, which asks questions about how long and why those people who live on the streets are homeless. Specifically, I came across one man who had just returned to Denver from visiting his one-year-old, twin grandsons. He was a very proud man that worked a full time job but just couldn’t afford a place to live. This is just one of many interviews I conducted that really changed the way I look at those who are homeless. It is nothing like the stereotype; which is why I encourage you to take the time to get to know these people. It will make their day to have a simple conversation with you.

            Each city has its own specialty, Chicago has its hot dogs, San Diego their burritos and Denver their outdoor activities and breweries. Hiking, skiing, snowboarding and snowmobiling are just a few of the activities I would encourage any visitor to the city to take advantage of. I went out to a place called Deer Creek Canyon, just a thirty-minute drive from the city, to hike and spent one of the best days, with the best views of both the city and the wilderness that surrounds Denver. It was an amazing experience that you won’t have any other place but Denver. I have also learned to ski while in Denver and taken a few trips to the mountains not far outside of the city. Whether you are a pro or just a beginner it is worth the day to try it out.

            Finally, Denver has a crazy fan base for their sports teams. Especially the Broncos and the Avalanche. Unfortunately, I was unable to make it to a Broncos game but I was able to make it to an Avalanche hockey game. They play in the Pepsi Center downtown and it is sold out almost every game. It was a game and an experience I will cherish and will certainly take the time to do again.  Going to a game has gotten me interested in the sport of hockey and more passionate about the city that I live in.

            Over the past few months I have learned a great deal about Colorado, Denver, city living and about myself. The city is a great place to find out who you want to be and where you want to go in life.  While also learning about the way other people live. Being in an apartment setting has allowed for me to get to know the other students in the building and gives us a great opportunity to learn and explore together. Whether you are a current student at Wartburg or someone who has graduated, I would encourage you to take the chance a move to a city. Even if it is just for a little while; whether you like it or not you will learn a great deal. It is something you will never forget.