Navigating Life in Charleston

Charleston: The Holy City, Chucktown, and the Heart of the Carolinas

These are only some nicknames for one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in the United States. That is one of the reasons I decided to go to COFC. The atmosphere, people, and landscape are all great. If you are looking for the college experience in a tourist city the College of Charleston is the place to be. However, in terms of the "traditional" college experience, you will not get that here. I personally never wanted that experience. I wanted to enroll in a school where I did not feel trapped on campus.

Besides a great education, the College of Charleston offers many things. Below are some of the ideas to put on your itinerary.

• Take a walk/jog to the Battery

• Get a tattoo on James Island

• Shopping on Second Sunday

• Watch the sunset and picnic at Sullivans

• Attend a Music Farm event

• Eat at a 5 star restaurant

• Pledge a sorority/fraternity

• Go to the Aquarium

• Attend sports games

• maybe even skip a class and spend it at the beach

• Do not forget the many cafes to try after a night out

Whether you are a tourist, student, or a resident of Charleston there is something for everyone here. Of course like every place there are downsides. My biggest one is the lack of public transportation. To experience the best here you will need a car. However, if you do not have one no worries! College kids here are very willing to give their fellow students a ride. Also, there is always Uber. If you are deciding to make Charleston your college of full-time home remember it is VERY expensive. Just keep that in mind, but it is worth it in my opinion.