And its getting better all the time

Greetings all! Everything is starting to come together here in Linz. Last night I attended my first kitchen party which are apparently a nightly occurrence here in the dorm. The students who were here last semester are carrying on a tradition from semesters past. I met many new people including many Czechs and a couple Italians. They were all incredibly nice to me and more than willing to practice their English on me while we played a couple rounds of foozball (you always want the Italians on your team). My suitmate also moved in yesterday; her name is Monica and she is from Poland. She is also incredibly nice and came with 3 other Polish girls who are also very friendly. So, things here are getting quite a bit busier and quite a bit more fun.

We had our first day of orientation today where I met more of the international students; there are people here from all around the world. I have to do alot of registering: for the city, the university, my classes, my health insurance...but there are some people around to help me get all of it worked out. We also took a guided tour of the city today. Linz is a very interesting city. Part of the city looks like an old European town while other parts of the city are made up of very modern buildings. I think the look of the city was purposeful as it reflects both the history of the city and the steel and chemical industries that are located here as well. Of course, the green way was one my favorite parts of Linz. It is located on the west side which is the hilly side. We took a walk through one of the parks and came to a point where we could look out over the whole city including the Danube River which was breath-taking today (a cloudy, foggy, cold day) and I can't wait to get back there on a clear day because supposedly the Alps are visible in the back ground of it all. I know, I know, you are wondering where the pictures are, well I didn't think to grab my camera this morning, but don't worry. I won't be making that mistake again.

I finished up my day hanging out with the Polish girls who tried to give me a lesson in Polish, but I had a hard time with it. Poland would be a horrible place to live if you could not say you sh-'s properly. And another kitchen party although I had to turn in a little early because I am exhausted and have another long day tomorrow. How is everything at home-wherever you may be? Till next time!