Journal #9: My Final Thoughts on an Exceptional Class

            I consider myself very lucky to have been a part of such a phenomenal class. I learned that I do not have to sit in a classroom to obtain knowledge and that a hands-on experience is the best way to learn and learn well. Mike and Mike have taught me so much in such a small amount of time and I am so very grateful to have had them as my mentors. I thought I knew what New York City was all about, but after being in Core 390, I now know that I really had no clue. I am now educated and proficient in Brooklyn, Queens, and Manhattan and am confident enough to speak about it to those I know and will meet in the future.

            My perception of New York City was narrow-minded and superficial before I started this class. I only thought about going to the city for a night out on the town and shopping. Mike and Mike exposed me to places I have been to but did not really know and new places I had no idea existed. I plan on going back to places like Coney Island and Harlem to really experience them. The casual approach of this learning experience forced me to go into each class with an entirely open mind. In accounting there is only so much I can learn from reading a textbook. I have to go out into the real world and test what I have learned. This is what this class did for me. My brain was challenged far more than sitting at a desk and being tested on a particular subject. I had to use all of my senses to understand the spectacular city we were experiencing. The days seemed like they were going to be long, but went by so quickly that you wished there would be more time.

            Mike and Mike showed me how much culture and diversity one city holds. The people I have met and the places I have seen will be with me forever. I hope one day I am able to bring my children to New York City and let them have the same experiences I have had. I think that everyone should explore Manhattan inside and out and I think that this course should be a requirement at Molloy. What I learned is not only important or relevant for my major, but can be used for anyone in just about any field of choice. My memories of the Gotham Experience are ones that I will cherish and never forget. I honestly cannot thank Mike and Mike enough for such an eye opening experience and wish them the very best.