Perception of Hometown vs. City Identity

People from upscale suburbs often identify themselves as being from the nearest major city like New York City or Washington, D.C. even if they live in a suburb. This perception is common among college students who tend to associate themselves more with the city than their actual towns due to the city's recognition and visibility. While some may do it to sound cooler, it mostly serves the purpose of clarity and recognition. The speaker shared a personal experience of city kids identifying as being from New York City rather than their specific towns. This trend is not about showing off but stems from the practicality that people are more familiar with major cities than smaller towns, making it easier to relate and understand one's background and origins.