<p>I think that “116th Street is far from civilization” is exaggerated. However, consider the fact that students feel tethered to the tremendous weight of work at all times. Academics is different from a job in that the former can be completed anywhere and anytime. Furthermore, taking 5 classes means that students are constantly behind on their work. Between classes, activities, and job-finding, it means that it can be difficult to coordinate a group of even 3-4 students to go out and do something. </p>
<p>I’ve had semesters where I had a midterm in 8 weeks out of the 13 week semester. Add on problem sets, labs, a part-time job, and activities. It means that I didn’t have much of a chance to socialize and invest in lunch or dinner with friends let alone go out to New York City. Sure, the glimmering lights are right there, but do I really have 4-5 hours to go downtown, especially since I’ll be spending 2 of those hours on the subway?</p>