in Geneva!

July 7th, 2008

When the time came to leave, I didn’t know what to expect and I was more nervous than excited. The thought occurred to me… maybe I shouldn’t have been so adventurous? It didn’t help that during the eight hour flight there, three babies across the aisle started wailing. It comes as no surprise then that I’ve slept about eighteen hours since leaving Austin on Thursday… maybe it’ll catch up to me soon? Ironically though, my first day in Switzerland was marked by July 4th.

So Geneva is basically amazing. It’s beautiful and everything is expensive. Already, we’ve walked to or from Lake Geneva three times (it’s about a 45 minute walk).

And walked right up to the famous fountain along a walkway. The mist coming off of it is ridiculous!

And found a park where lots of people (old men) come and play chess!

Even so… I don’t think I’m ready to enjoy it just yet. I guess it’s so pretty and peaceful, I just don’t feel like I belong. Everywhere I look there are adorable dogs, couples holding hands, and women wearing the cutest - but most painful shoes ever.

Some things…

  • Only Americans wear flip flops or tennis shoes
  • Cocktails at clubs start at $25
  • The Democrats Abroad are active! Republicans, what are you doing ??
  • Seven weeks feel so long right now
  • The sun doesn’t set until 9 or 10 every night

And now… I give you the view from the window in my room on the eight floor of the Cite Universitaire de Geneve!


7 Responses to “in Geneva!”

  1. Sarah on July 7, 2008 6:40 pm

    I’m so glad you’re studying abroad, Jen! You’ll have a blast. It always takes some adjusting, but it’s definitely worth it … my summers abroad were the best! My roommate Slava did the Genva program two summers ago and loved it, and my friend Karin is doing grad school in Geneva beginning in September! I’ve heard it’s a beautiful city. Kudos to you for taking off on this adventure!

  2. tiff on July 8, 2008 7:06 pm

    omg… Geneva is so…photogenic…SO GREEN. O_O lol. And how come you aren’t in any of these pictures eh?? I wanna see my hunnie!

    And that crazy big chessboard is awesome. It reminds me of Harry Potter! hahaha

  3. Ann on July 8, 2008 7:36 pm

    Jen, enjoy yourself. Before you know it, the trip will be over. In 6 wks time, you’ll wish you had a magic wand to turn back time to give you a few more days in Europe. I promise you that whatever obstacles you encounter, it will be well worth the effort, time, money, and memories. Go enjoy yourself and spread your wings. This is only the beginning!

  4. VP on July 8, 2008 9:43 pm

    Everything is so BEAUTIFUL! I am jealous and saddened that I won’t be able to join you in Geneva! Go explore the city, and also take pictures of the little things, like regular streets and people doing everyday things! Those pictures will remind you of a completely different Geneva years down the road.

  5. Cynthia on July 9, 2008 1:36 am

    Hi Jennifer! What a beautiful place for you to explore. With your sweet smile and wonderful self, you will charm everyone you meet!

  6. Mom on July 9, 2008 12:14 pm

    Don’t waste energy with doubts, just enjoy every day
    and know how much you are loved and supported from home
    Expect AMAZING experiences and that is what you will find.

  7. Melissa on July 11, 2008 10:32 pm

    Jennifer, I’m so glad you are studying abroad. It’s the best thing I ever did in college. Congratulations, enjoy, take it all in, and have the time of your life!

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