Monday, July 6, 2015

Intensive Session: Day 1



June 6, 2015

I arrived at Yale in the early evening.  The travel coordinator was supremely helpful in arranging my flight and pick up from the airport.  This time, I traveled from Chicago, O’hare to Hartford, CT; a much shorter flight compared to my last.  

Getting dropped off right in front of my dorm, the new dorm, I found my San Jose group gathering outside and preparing to walk to dinner.  They told me they would wait for me, so I quickly grabbed my room key, unloaded my bags on my bed, and continued my journey into the heart of Yale. 

Dinner was set in a long dining hall.  Even though it was buffet style, I still felt like I was meandering a scene from Harry Potter’s banquet room.  There was a healthy array of options, ranging from sandwiches, to pork, to incredible bacon infused noodles.  I sat down with my group as people continued to arrive from all parts of the country.  Most looked like worn travelers, but all had a fire and excitement in their eyes that foreshadowed the academic vigor in weeks to come.

After our meal, I went back to my room to unpack and finish some readings for tomorrow’s seminar.  My seminar leader found me as I was walking back and asked if I wanted to join her and a few others to watch the woman’s world cup final at a local pub.  I decided that might be fun and joined them after setting up my room.  

The bar was crowded with good ol’ fashion Americans rooting for their team and having a good time.  We didn’t stay long.  After the game was over, we walked back to the dorm down lamp lit paths and reassuring alleys.  The group showed me around a bit, but I was mostly exhausted.  So when I got back to my room, I turned out the lights and fell asleep.  

It was a good day.  Arriving back at Yale begot an air of intrigue that feels refreshing and invigorating.  I am excited for these next few weeks.  Although the work will be rigorous, I feel that I’ll find great value and fulfillment in my time here. 


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