New new new

So, I figured, "I'm in a new year, new semester, new country (well, not new, but it kinda feels like it sometimes), new coast, new roommates, new everything - might as well make the blog look all new and shiny, too."

Also, I may be procrastinating. Shocker.

But yeah, I think the new design reflects the semester well. First, it kind of looks blue and icy, and well, it's cold here. Obviously, it's not Siberia, or even Boston, but I've certainly been chilled when I've been walking around downtown. It's blustery here, and that's what gets ya. Second, the background photo was filed under "abstract" - obviously a reflection of all the thinking I will have to do this quarter.

I'm actually wondering if I'll experience IES's theoretical emotional roller coaster more here than in an actual foreign country. I'm certainly geeking out right now enough about things like living in Washington, actually living here, taking the Metro on a daily basis to get downtown, working with a professor who essentially lives Peace and Conflict Resolution, and the internship, where I will get real international relations experience. Sorry, Santa Clara, your IR options are ... limited.

Not to mention, I really like the people here, particularly the other students in my program. They're all so interesting. Not only do we have international students in the entire program, but so many American kids in my class have dual citizenship, or have at least lived in interesting places, or, you know, have cool accents. Jealoush.

But I can handle it. And like I've mentioned about 5 million times thus far, life is busy here, but I like it! Sooo, I'm just hoping I'll just stay in excited mode.