June 5, 2004

Bonjour! I'm still surviving over here! Time is running out and soon we'll be back in America.
This is about the halfway point through this summer study abroad program in Strasbourg, and I have loved every minute of the trip. Before Centre offered this new program, the possibility of studying abroad for all of us here in Strasbourg now looked slim to none. For some, we would not be able to study abroad during a semester because of athletics or a demanding academic schedule. The trip was created for only $1,600, and some got the majority paid for by using their Senior Stipend (special financial aid for seniors to study abroad). I am very blessed to have had this opportunity knock on my door, and I feel that the three weeks that I am here in Strasbourg will change the rest of my life forever.

Not only have we had a wonderful time taking day trips to various sites around Strasbourg, this weekend Julie and Patrice unleashed us to make our own travels. A group of us took a train this morning to Basel, Switzerland, with the intent of trying fondue and buying the famous chocolate. It was an experience to say the least. I think bridging the language barrier was the hardest obstacle that we faced. In Switzerland, people were speaking both German and French. Also, Switzerland is still using the Swiss Francs instead of the Euro.

The other group traveled to Germany for the weekend to spend some time with friends. They will get back Sunday night, just in time for class on Monday.