Astoria Local Competes At Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest

ASTORIA, QUEENS — How does an American Government professor in New York celebrate the Fourth of July? Astoria local Julie Goldberg opted for Nathan's Famous Fourth Of July Hot Dog Eating Contest.

Goldberg, 37, will compete in Tuesday's contest, marking her fifth year as a challenger against some of the best hot dog eaters in the world.

"This is like the second-best day of the year after Christmas or Thanksgiving," Goldberg said. "It's a like a family reunion that happens once a year, and we all have this niche hobby that we all partake in. The contest is one part, but it's so exciting to catch up with the other eaters."

The 37-year-old came to New York to complete her Ph.D. in political science at CUNY. She also teaches American Government at Hunter College and Baruch College.

When she's not teaching, Astorians can say hi to Goldberg while she scoops up ice cream at Van Leeuwen on Ditmars Boulevard.

Goldberg, from 38th Street, said her journey to the contest five years ago was thanks to the hype from friends in Florida. As a marathon, they thought she had what it takes for the Coney Island competition.

"My appetite at the time made me eat anything that was in front of me," she said. "They're here to watch me live for the first year."