My niece moved from San Diego to Brooklyn when she was 21 (for college). The two places could not be more different and she was not what you would call “street smart”.
My wife and I drove to New York to meet her on moving day. After moving her in (to a fifth floor walk-up, I might add), we sat around her new living room to catch our breath. Excitement and adrenalin began to fade from her as the enormity of the situation sank in. “What have I done?” she said and broke into sobs. Needless to say, we stuck around a little longer to calm her down.
After a couple weeks, and numerous pep-talks, she began to settle in. She made a couple friends too.
Now, seven years later, she’s completely at home in Brooklyn and has become quite the New Yorker. She loves it.
If she can do it, so can you.
Be cautios, not paranoid. Hit the streets only during the day for a while, until you’re comfortable with the neighborhood. Get to know the local shop keepers and some folks in your building. Carry little cash, a little flashlight, and a whistle. Maybe take a self-defense class if it makes you feel better. Get to know the train system. Get a train pass. Most folks in New York, like everywhere, are good people. Don’t let movies and the news scare you, but don’t be naive either. Common sense helps a lot.
Good luck on your adventure.