April 18, 2025

While a select few members of the MSM community are native New Yorkers, a vast majority of our students travel from across the country (and even across the globe!) to attend. We asked current students about what made the transition to living in NYC easier, and they responded with their tips and tricks!

But first, learn why Matthew enjoys living in the big apple:

“Living in New York City is like living inside an episode of a television show or starring in your own movie! You get to walk down the street in the coolest outfit you can put together, blasting Charli xcx with a bodega bagel in your hand. And what’s better than that? The CULTURE! Exploring different cultures through dining experiences, shows, festivals, neighborhood walks, and museums is the most gratifying experience I could ask for. While you sometimes might feel small living in the city, exploring every facet of Manhattan is the best way to see the bigger picture you’re a part of!” – Matthew Pichler (BM ’27)

Keegan McCardell (BM ’23, MM ’25), French horn: “Explore the city — not just Manhattan, but also Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx! There is no shortage of exciting things to see and do while you’re a student living in NYC. Also, have a backup plan for your daily commute. You never know when the subway will be down, and it is best to have an alternative route to your destination in mind.”

Saviah Miller (BM ’25), classical voice: “Get a New York Public Library Card as soon as possible! This will qualify you not only to receive free books online through the app “Libby” (as well as visiting the library for physical copies), but you can use your card to reserve a Culture Pass online. This will give you access to 100 cultural institutions across NYC, including museums, gardens, and historical societies.”

Matthew Pichler (BM ’27), musical theatre: “Even if you’re not a jazz musician, go to a jazz show! Even if you’re not a vocal performance student, go watch an opera at the Met Opera! The New York Philharmonic is also a wonderful night out — don’t hesitate to explore the other art forms that make up MSM.”

Mary Katherine Stewart (MM ’26), classical voice: “Invest in good walking shoes! Not driving is an adjustment for many, but being able to walk everywhere is something you should definitely take advantage of.”

Davide Sgarra (MM ’25), jazz clarinet: “Find a deli with a chicken over rice that’s less than $10.”

Luke Randazzo (BM ’26), classical voice: “Learn the subway system! If nothing else, learn how the 1-2-3 line works so that when you and your friends go out, you’re not glued to directions on your phones.”

Jacob Eddy (BM ’27), classical composition: “Balance your education with your outside life! Be sure to enjoy things other than music for a nice breather.”

Kayla Thomas (BM ’25), classical voice: “Have a long coat for the winter! When living in a walkable city, you feel the cold so much more than when living in the suburbs.”