Hi Sindy,
It's so novel to have a true newbie here, welcome to FT. For an non-frequent traveler Starwood, spg.com is the best program. Less stays to earn a free night via points. NY hotels start at $150 for a well run place. There's a cheap one that's not bad called Travelodge you can try if you're on a tight budget. Remember how expensive real estate is in NY, a basic 1 bedroom apartment rents for at least $2,200/month that's $80/day just in rent.