International Affair

I know, I know, I've been gone again. . .but there's been a lot going on, not to mention I'm determined to have both papers done by Monday (and I should make it!) So where to start. . .

Thursday was fairly uneventful. Friday, however, was much more productive and fun. After spending the afternoon at the library working (and may I say I've spent more time in the library these past few weeks than ever in my college career, just because it's a good place to study -- imagine that), I headed out to a small barbecue/party held at the flat where one of my classmates and new friend Selena is staying for the summer (she is Italian; she is staying with some if her Italian friends living in Galway). It truly was an international affair, as there were several Italians, two Japanese, three Irish, one German, one guy from Wales, and a couple of us Americans thrown in. It was amazing to talk to all of the young adults from all over the world, and especially interesting that they all spoke English fairly well (some incredibly well). It makes me feel horrible that I can't speak another language, especially as they were all busy learning new words in each other's languages as well. Several of them are doctoral students, and one guy (Alesandro) is doing post-doctoral research on mechanical heart valves! It has continued to spark an interest in international education in me. Also, although it was technically a barbecue, one of the Japanese ladies (whose name is the only one I don't remember) made sushi and rice balls for us, and even though I haven't like sushi in the past I must say it was quite good!

This morning we went to the open-air market. There was a ton of fresh food, as well as fresh flowers and jewelry and artwork from several local artists. I bought a couple beautiful prints, some bread and cheese, and later had falafel for lunch. It was just relaxing; we had a nice time. I had planned to do a bit of shopping afterwards, but the weather was particularly bad and I was quite tired! I came home and took a nap, and have since put most of the finishing touches on my papers. Tomorrow we head to the Aran Islands -- I just hope the weather holds out for us!

I had wanted to mention several cultural notes, but of course now that I've sat down I don't remember half of them. I will tell you that one of the unique things about the education system here is that although the state funds the school system and designs the curriculum, the actual schools are owned and operated by (private) organizations, some of which are religious (usually the Catholic Church). It is an interesting situation that has apparently led to a number of controversies, but I can tell you from my research that Ireland has performed at or above the global average in recent international tests. On a lighter cultural note, I have determined that when eating an Irish breakfast, it tastes best if you eat a little bit of everything at once. ;c)