Interning in NYC this summer? Here’s a beginner's guide

Attention, Gen Z college students! So, you’ve scored an internship in the Big Apple this summer? That's a major accomplishment! Get ready for a whirlwind adventure in the city that never sleeps. But before you pack your bags and head off to the city, let’s get you acquainted with the ins and outs of Manhattan. From trendy neighborhoods to affordable housing options, we’ve got you covered.

1️⃣ The Village (Greenwich Village/East Village/West Village)

Welcome to the heart of bohemian culture! The Village is teeming with quirky cafes, vintage boutiques, and live music venues. You’ll find plenty of charming brownstones and tree-lined streets here. Whether you’re into poetry slams or dive bars, The Village has something for everyone.

Summer Housing Hotspot: New York University (NYU) offers summer housing options for students interning in the city. Plus, you’ll be right in the midst of all the action!

2️⃣ SoHo (South of Houston Street)

Prepare to be dazzled by SoHo’s cobblestone streets and iconic cast-iron buildings. This artsy neighborhood is a shopaholic’s paradise, with trendy fashion boutiques and art galleries galore. Don’t forget to snap some Insta-worthy pics of the street art while you’re here!

Summer Housing Hotspot: The New School’s Eugene Lang College of Liberal Arts offers summer housing in their residence halls, putting you right in the heart of SoHo’s bustling scene.

3️⃣ Midtown Manhattan

Get ready to dive into the hustle and bustle of Midtown Manhattan! Home to iconic landmarks like Times Square, Rockefeller Center, and the Theater District, this area is a tourist magnet for good reason. From Broadway shows to skyscraper views, Midtown has it all.

Summer Housing Hotspot: Columbia University offers affordable summer housing options at their Manhattanville campus, just a quick subway ride away from Midtown.

4️⃣ Financial District (FiDi)

Welcome to the beating heart of capitalism! FiDi is home to Wall Street, the New York Stock Exchange, and some of the tallest skyscrapers in the city. During the day, the streets are bustling with business professionals rushing to meetings, but at night, the neighborhood quiets down, offering a peaceful escape from the chaos of the city.

Summer Housing Hotspot: Pace University offers summer housing options in their downtown Manhattan campus, putting you right in the midst of FiDi’s financial hub.

5️⃣ Chelsea

Get ready to immerse yourself in Chelsea’s eclectic mix of art, culture, and nightlife. This neighborhood is known for its thriving art scene, with dozens of galleries showcasing both established and emerging artists. After gallery hopping, unwind at one of Chelsea’s trendy rooftop bars or indulge in some retail therapy at the upscale boutiques along the famous High Line.

Summer Housing Hotspot: The Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) offers summer housing options in their residence halls, providing a convenient home base for exploring Chelsea and beyond.

6️⃣ Lower East Side (LES)

Step back in time and explore the rich immigrant history of the Lower East Side. Once a melting pot of cultures, this neighborhood is now a hotspot for trendy eateries, speakeasy bars, and live music venues. Dive into the LES’s vibrant nightlife scene or spend a lazy afternoon browsing the vintage shops and quirky boutiques that line its streets.

Summer Housing Hotspot: Cooper Union offers summer housing options at their historic East Village campus, allowing you to experience the unique charm of the Lower East Side.

7️⃣ Upper West Side

Escape the hustle and bustle of downtown and explore the laid-back vibes of the Upper West Side. This residential neighborhood is known for its leafy streets, iconic brownstones, and proximity to Central Park. Spend your weekends strolling along Riverside Drive, catching a show at Lincoln Center, or indulging in brunch at one of the many charming cafes that dot the area.

Summer Housing Hotspot: Barnard College offers summer housing options for students interning in the city, providing a peaceful retreat in the heart of the Upper West Side.

8️⃣ Williamsburg (Brooklyn)

Okay, technically not Manhattan, but Williamsburg deserves a shoutout! Just a quick subway ride away, this hipster haven boasts craft breweries, artisanal coffee shops, and trendy rooftop bars. Dive into the indie music scene and enjoy stunning views of the Manhattan skyline from across the East River.

Summer Housing Hotspot: Brooklyn College offers summer housing options, allowing you to experience the unique vibe of Williamsburg while still being close to the action.

Other Essentials:

Transportation: Invest in a MetroCard for unlimited subway and bus rides throughout the city. Trust us, it’s a lifesaver!

Foodie Finds: Don’t miss out on NYC’s diverse culinary scene. From dollar pizza slices to gourmet food trucks, there’s something to satisfy every craving.

Safety Tips: Stay vigilant, especially when navigating the city late at night. Stick to well-lit areas and avoid empty subway cars.\

Exploration: Take advantage of your weekends to explore hidden gems like Central Park, the High Line, and the Brooklyn Botanic Garden.

Now that you’re armed with the ultimate Gen Z guide to NYC, go forth and conquer the concrete jungle! Make the most of your internship experience and soak up everything this vibrant city has to offer. Who knows, you might just fall in love with the Big Apple! 🍎✨