As we moved on campus, all students were placed in “Intro Week Families.” We spent an entire week with these families, which were led by second-year students.
I found this to not be very useful just because I already went through my freshman year experience at UCSB, but nonetheless, this was a useful way to meet other Dutch and international students. Overall, I have been enjoying my time here. Everyone is quite wild here – more wild than at UCSB, which is funny because UCSB is considered a “party school.” Regardless, the bar on campus is fun and my friends and I always dance the night away.
However, I noticed that Dutchies tend to not dance. Instead, many of them socialize outside as opposed to hanging out on the dancefloor. Next time, I will also join them for a little bit outside, but I just love to dance so much, so we shall see.
It has been overwhelming meeting so many new students and at times, I do feel like a freshman. In addition, Dutchies are not very personable. So, I think they get thrown off by my friendliness, but at the same time, that is me, so I’ll just continue smiling.
I almost made it by going to all the parties during Intro Week, but then the flu got to me. I had a fever, stuffy nose, a cough, and a sore throat. It has been two weeks and I still feel ill, but it has been getting better. I have not had time to just rest, since school has started and I am constantly on the go, so this weekend I will give myself a true “self-care” weekend.
It has also gotten gloomier in Utrecht, since the weather is now more fall-like. I got quite sad the other day because I am so impatient when it comes to giving myself time to heal, and I just felt pathetic because I have not been socializing as much. So, I decided to join a yoga studio and after my first class, I truly felt better. I think I will continue going to it because it will keep me sane, while I am engulfed in academics.
Because of today’s yoga lesson and my doctor’s visit, I learned that taking time for oneself is very important so I can be my best self to those around me. This is such a simple concept, but so difficult to execute.
Anyways, I apologize for not being as active…I was ill and uninspired. BUT, things will change. :)
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