Christin's Semester in Deutschland!

Well, day two is almost behind me. I spent all day today trying to get in touch with the Univeristy and the heads of the departments of Poli. Sci and German. It was definitely a struggle. Most people were not in their office, either their office hours are so limited or they simply not there. I finally got a hold of the head of the Poli. Sci department, who, get this, was actually an American! We talked for a while in German before I noticed his heavy accent and then I offered to speak and English, and he accepted. So, we actually spoke in English but got a lot done. He sent me the email address of this gentleman who will helps exchange students. We will meet in Göttingen on Wednesday. ( I move in Tuesday!!!)

I also filled out the immatriculation forms necessary for me to be a student at the University. However, they can't be sent out until tomorrow because I have to transfer money to the university first. I thought that was kind of funny, especially since the amount is so little to the ridiculous amount we pay at Luther, which by the way, I just read in a lovely e-mail will go up to $33, 500 next year. Cool. Or not.

I was reminded of why I love the German culture today when I was picking up things like shampoo and such. I love seeing that everything is environmentally friendly or organic. Call me a nerd but I love that!

It was a beautiful day and I took a long bike ride which also reminded me why I love Germany . I got to take the Kottkamps dog along which was also great, and Mom, if you're reading this, is a reminder why I still think we should get a dog

I am going to take the train tomorrow to see my grandparents, and I am very excited! The area where they live is stunning! I will update again soon!

I miss you all! XoXo!!

Viele Grüsse aus Deutschland!

I arrived safely and happily in Germany this morning. After three long but pleasant flights I was glad to see solid ground . The flight from Minneapolis to Amsterdam was extra pleasant, as the mother of my friend Sigrid from Luther was a flight attendant for my row! (I got dessert from the First Class-bing bong ).

I was picked up by some family friends, the Kottkamps, whom I am staying with until I go to Göttingen next week. They are so caring and kind, and have made my first day here so comfortable. I went to bed almost as soon as we got to Steinhude, where they live (it´s about 1.5 hours from Göttingen). After a long nap and not being sure where I was when I woke up, I showered and did some repacking. We had a great dinner tonight and afterwards I talked to Martina and Rainer (Kottkamp) for a very long and enjoyable time! It was great conversation that covered everything from running to politics .

Tomorrow I will be following Martina to work, where together we will work on getting things in place for Göttingen. We´ll probably also pick up a cellphone for me to use while I am here, as I am unsure that I will have access to telephones at the University. On Thursday, I will leave for my grandparents house in Siegen, a four hour train ride from here. I will be there until Saturday, and then will go back to Steinhude. From there I will depart for Göttingen on either Monday or Tuesday, depending on which works better for Martina and Rainer, who have offered to bring me there.

Well, I am going to try to sleep through my jet lag and get used to the new time zone as possible. I really hope you all are well, and I promise to keep you all posted on what is going in the next few days! Much love to all!