Well we’re halfway through the exchange and I can honestly say that it hasn’t slowed down one bit! I’ve done more than I thought possible in my eight weeks here and am looking forward to so much more! Apologies in advance for how scattered this post is going to be, I have so much to tell you guys.
Since my last blog post, I’ve gotten much more involved with my different clubs. While some of them fell by the wayside, I am still very much a part of the gymnastics team (although in terms of actual gymnastics ability I seem to have stalled), as well as the surf team. In fact, this past weekend, club gymnastics went on a sunrise hike in Shenandoah National Park! It was absolutely freezing, and we couldn’t see the sun, but it was still such a blast! I’ve attached a picture of the gymnastics guys trying to stay warm on the mountain. In terms of surfing, I’ve joined a water polo team through the surf club, so not only do I get to go on surf trips, but water polo ones as well 🙂
Football season is also in full swing now! I’ve been to every home game and tend to go hoarse from cheering for the Cavaliers. We finally won our first game last weekend and everyone went absolutely nuts. I love the football games because all of the exchange students come out in full force, so it’s a great time to reconnect with everyone in the program.
Over fall break, which was two weeks ago, eight of us went down to New Orleans for a few days. We got to check out the vibrant jazz scene and walk down Bourbon Street at night. I’ve been to New York, Los Angeles, and most other cities you can think of, but I’ve never in my life seen a street as vibrant and alive as Bourbon Street was. If you’re ever in the states I cannot recommend a city any higher.
With everything going on, it’s a miracle I’ve been able to keep up with my studies. I’ve had a few midterms, and as of writing this post have my last midterm exam tonight. I’ve learned so much, particularly in ‘Terrorism and Counterterrorism’, where my teacher, in eight weeks, has taught me more about the history of the Afghanistan War than i thought possible. It’s certainly become my favorite class and never fails to fascinate me.
I’ll be sure to update you all on how my midterm went, as well as halloween in America which is coming up fast! I’m planning a Sharknado themed costume with Brodie and will attach loads of pictures to my next blog post. Until then you’ll have to use your imaginations 🙂
Peace out 🙂
Gabriel
