u/Efficient-rat-970

for context im an art student, 17, wishing to move to NYC (or as an alternative suburban new jersey) for art school, I'm from the south and im wary about being eaten alive as my parents are berating me saying that I'll be murdered or kidnapped in the first couple months, im not so quick to give up on my goals but are there any general survival tips I should be particularly wary about before leaving? im already working on using my local public transport as much as and as soon as possible during summer, trying to not let myself look so anxious in crowded spaces, and obviously mind my own business, but like should I carry a pocket knife on me? or pepper spray? some kind of weapon?? also telling me to just not go is not helpful :/ cause that's not happening. if anyone could give some good tips let me know! I don't plan on staying any longer than 4 years.