This month, Natural Selections features Jennifer Jackson, Program Assistant, Sponsored Research and Program Development
County of Origin: USA

1. How long have you been living in New York?
Since the date of conception 33 years ago.

2. Where do you live?
In a small town called Middle Village.

3. Which is your favorite neighborhood?
Since I still live in Middle Village after all of these years…

4. What do you think is the most overrated thing in the city? And underrated?
The most overrated things in the city are those trendy hotspots that have a selection process for entry tougher than the selection process for entry into a good graduate program. If you do not meet the door man’s criteria you’re out of luck. The most underrated things are the great karaoke bars where you can rent your own room and make a fool of yourself in front of your friends.

5. What do you miss most when you are out of town?
My dog Oliver, but the reception I get when I return home is awesome!

6. If you could change one thing about NYC, what would that be? Only one thing?
Well I guess it would be the homeless epidemic. I know that’s a big one but I just hate seeing people sleeping on the streets and begging for money.

7. Describe a perfect weekend in NYC.
Well, since I’m not a morning person, my day would only begin at around 11:00. I would probably start by having lunch with my mother. Then from there I would run my errands. Boring, I know, but necessary. Then I may meet some friends for dinner and head over to my favorite local watering hole for some great Irish cider and a good cover band which would be playing the best classic rock and rock and roll tunes. Sunday morning would be spent recovering from the night before. Once I finally wake up I would go to brunch with some of my girlfriends followed by some shopping. Then, probably spend the rest of my day relaxing. For those of you who know me who are reading this article I love to relax! Oh and by the way it would be a beautiful fall weekend with the temp around sixty degrees.

8. What is the most memorable experience you have had in NYC?
There are so many experiences. It’s hard to name just one. Well I’m not sure if this would be memorable or more like one I’d like to forget. It was the night my friend was driving us home from getting coffee and she went into cardiac arrest. I found out how I would react in a panic situation. I was able to stop the car and call for assistance just in time for the paramedics to save her life.

9. If you could live anywhere else, where would that be?
Considering I’ve only visited a handful of places, I’d have to say Ireland. That is honestly the most beautiful place I have ever visited. It’s like one big golf course. If that is something you’re into, I highly recommend it. The people are so friendly. I could go on…

10. Do you think of yourself as a New Yorker? Why?
Well being that I have lived here for my entire existence I would have to say yes.