Alright, it looks like things are starting to fall into place. Sylvia and I went over to the university where I will be studying today and met with my contact there. It was the first time I've seen her or spoken to her since I left in March and needless to say she was a bit surprised. I got some of the details as to what I'll be doing over there and it seems like a fairly decent class load. Six hours of Russian a week as well as my international affairs class. On top of that, it looks as if my international affairs class will be taught in Russian towards the end of the semester. The word "class" may be a bit misleading, all of my courses are going to be one on one tutorials taught by teachers at the university. Either way, it's going to be an experience I will never forget. My orientaion with the university is going to be in a few days, probably on Thursday or Friday. The only reason it's been so uncertain is because I still don't have internet at the apartment and, as such, haven't been able to get contact info for the people I need to speak with, but that is changing. I'm meeting up with Irina tonight for dinner and she'll have all the contact info I need.
On the way to the university today it started snowing. While it wasn't a lot of snow and it wasn't cold enough to stick, it was still the most snow I've seen since I was up in Wisconsin when I was thirteen. Hopefully the weather won't affect the culture shock too much in a few weeks.
All in all, things are beginning to look up. The uncertainty about what the hell is going on is beginning to dissipate, and I've got a better idea of what's going on, what's expected of me, and where I need to go to get what needs to be done. I've been assured that securing a visa for me (as I don't have one at the moment) will not be a problem, and that the university has already begun the process for getting me an intership with the government. I feel as if, as the week goes on, I will have a better idea of my place in this far off land.
(It may not be as far off as I thought, however. As I write this there are several Americans speaking behind me at the internet cafe. I know I've only been over here for four days, but it still feels good to hear some English.)
Alas my dear friends, my time on this blog for today has come to a close. Wish me luck on this fantastic voyage I have embarked upon.
By the by: listen to The Descendents and The Pixies.
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3 comments:
There are Americans in Moldova? Who would have thought you would even hear English- I am glad you are getting settled in, you better have told Irina Hi for me!
Befriend the Americans!
Stay Warm! Behave yourself. Love the blog--how is Irina? CHR
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