First week

Ello poppets,

So I decided to start a blog. Mostly for my family and whoever is interested in my travels and daily life while abroad. In case you didn't know, I am studying in Edinburgh, Scotland for the semester. I am writing now because I have officially spent my first week in Edinburgh. The 3 weeks before now I was off gallivanting throughout Europe with my friend Julia. The past month has been the time of my life. I have learned a lot about myself, life, and cultures. And of course I have loved every bit of it.

Edinburgh doesn't have a big city feel to it, but has lots to do.. I mean if you like bars and pubs there are 5 on every street. No joke, Google maps bars in Edinburgh and it is all red! It's something else. But the city is lovely. There is a beautiful castle on a mountain/hill and Arthur's seat which should have an amazing view of the city that I have to climb up to. The buildings are a nice combination of old and modern. Since the university was founded in the late 1500's the campus is kind of spread out but the main buildings are together so that is nice. It is a 30 minute walk for me to get to the main area, so I should be in shape after this semester!  I'm really glad I traveled and walked a ton before coming here so I can appreciate this flat, not so strenuous walk into town everyday.
My typical day consists of sleeping in, walking into town, hanging out, maybe hitting a pub, maybe playing cards, then just calling it a night. When I get back into my hotel dorm room (my dorm is literally in a hotel..) I check Facebook and log into Skype to see if there is anyone I can talk to. Nothing out of the ordinary, which seems odd, but it's nice at the same time. I think it's helping me to not be homesick. Then classes start Monday so that will help occupy me since things are slowing down now. I am taking Architecture: From antiquity to enlightenment, Modern Scottish History, and Celtic Civilizations. None help with marketing but hey when in Scotland.

I hope when I start making friends from Scotland that I can blow the typical dumb, lazy American stereotype out of their head with my wonderful, well-rounded Stetson education. There are few things worse than feeling stupid.  I am excited about meeting people but at the same time nervous since I am leaving in 3 months.  I hate saying see you laters, and have had too many of them.. But as this trip showed me, it is definitely see you later and not goodbye. I mean I didn't see Mirek for 7 years, Susi was at Stetson 2 years ago, and Miruxy was there in the Spring so no matter how long or short you go without seeing someone who you are friends with you can always reconnect. It's beautiful. So I guess I'll get out there and make some new best friends so that I can come back.. unless I decide to move here of course. Then you will have to come visit me! I definitely want to live in Europe I've decided. I just like the lifestyle and travel possibilities better than in the states I think.

Anyways! I'm just kinda rambling so I guess I'll shush it. Know that I am enjoying myself but missing everyone at the same time. Seems like things at Stetson are pretty much the same, but I am still scared of things being totally different when I return. Good thing I like change! For my family, I miss you very much and hope to "see" you soon on Skype.
Bye for now and enjoy your weekend!

Til next time something interesting (or not so interesting) happens,
Alyssa