An European Education

So, I have decided to a take a break from what I have been doing today (quite boring but somehow taking way too much time) to write about what I came here to do- study. Through many hurdles, I have found myself in three interesting classes- Contemporary Issues of Conflict and Security, States of War and Peace- Statebuilding and Peacebuilding, and Humanitarian Crises and Responses. All are taught by quite interesting professors and I am getting the hang of them not always telling you exactly what needs to be done.

These are some observations that I have had so far (Note: I am just pointing out the differences!)

First, the students talk while the Professor is talking. Now, maybe I am Americanized, but you do not talk while the professor is talking. It is rude, distracts other students, and, in the states, the professor will probably call on you promptly. I can still remember my days in elementary school where we would get the marbles taken out of the jar if we spoke when he/she was talking. Thank goodness we don't have marble jars anymore.

Second, students and TAs outwardly cuss when we are doing projects and/or school work, sometimes in the middle of class. I know that we aren't in a standard "professional" setting, but I prefer to keep my talking professional- heaven forbid these might be my co-workers one day! Personally, I don't like to say that "Somalia is F-ed." I think they are better choice of words that we can use to discuss the current political landscape.

Third, I have turned into quite the American patriot. I knew that there would be anti-American sentiment. We all criticize the government, but it is my government, right? Hearing it come out of someone not from America somehow has me wanting to defend America! With mentions of "the superpower over the pond" and "the American hegemon," I feel like I have to defend my country's foreign policy. This makes me better understand when immigrants come to the States they try to hold onto their old country as much as possible.

In other news- here I am in the Alps near the town of Champery! I wasn't the fondest person of this ledge if you can't tell :) I spent a wonderful day with 3 other exchange students in the Alps and watching sheep come down a mountain... it is sort of a Swiss fall festival to watch various animals come down the Alps.  There were definitely not many Americans there, and it was fun to see the sheep come down! Afterwards, we went up to the top of the mountain for some hiking and views.  A very wonderful day (without any Zut Alors nonetheless)!

Me and the sheep