From Presidency to Broadway

After waking up after the first normal amount of sleep I’ve had in days, I couldn’t wait to take the scenic train ride north to Poughkeepsie, New York. This time, we made sure not to board the quiet car so we were able to discuss the wonderful views with one another. For the majority of the ride, the train rode alongside the Hudson River and provided views of not only nature but also vast estates along the bank.

We arrived at a much smaller train station than those that we had gone to the past two days, but I loved its quaint, small town feeling. From the station, we took a taxi to the home of Franklin Delano Roosevelt. We had the privilege to attend a private tour of his home. The park ranger who led our tour, Kevin, was very soft-spoken but incredibly knowledgeable. His obvious passion for the Roosevelt family transported us to the time period and educated us about the smallest details in the life of the 32^nd president.

Before the tour of the house, we first walked out into the garden where FDR and his wife Eleanor are buried alongside their dog. The dog, Fala, was FDR’s most easygoing companion. The president’s walks with Fala were the only time he could free his mind of politics and focus on relaxation.

FDR, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Fala's resting place. Fala's grave is marked by the compass in the back. 

Upon entering the house, I was surprised to notice how homey it felt. I could actually imagine a family living comfortably and normally inside. As Kevin spoke to us about parts of the house, I noticed how much history was inside. Each object was an interesting historical artifact. Even the board games on the table held historical significance. We walked past FDR’s childhood bedroom, the room where he was born, and his room as president. We also saw their guest rooms where Kings and Queens stayed the night. The house was radiating with history.

Our next stop was Vassar, a school that blew me away. It is located an absolutely beautiful, rural location, yet it isn’t far from urban areas. When we arrived, I was immediately drawn to the impressive buildings on campus and the vast array of trees, which permeated the landscape. After a quick information session, where we learned about the school’s curriculum, we left the school’s tiny, yet largest lecture hall and left for the tour.

 

Our tour guide, Lily, was super funny and charismatic. She pranced around campus with an air of joy and a spring in her step. She enlightened us with stories of her positive and transformative experience at Vassar. When we entered the library, I was immediately reminded of Hogwarts. The intricate arches and beautiful stain glass windows had a magical feeling. It seemed like a perfect place to study! Vassar is the first school that I have toured which I absolutely love. I know that I will be sending in an application this fall.

After another lovely train ride back, we went strait to dinner. I wasn’t expecting much after a long day, but where we ate was absolutely spectacular. It was literally the most fun meal of my life. Ellen’s Stardust is a diner where amazing singers and actors who haven’t quite made it to Broadway work. Throughout the meal waiters and waitresses sing while dancing on tables and interacting with the people eating. I would recommend this place to anyone traveling to New York or even the East Coast. I loved it!