I must suffer through one more day of boredom, though. I 'rush, rush, wait'-ed this morning because I was planning on going to Germany to spend my holiday with a good friend, Lea, and her family. Too bad it didn't happen as planned. As per usual when I'm taking a budget airline somewhere, I need to get up at 1-2a so I can catch the night bus to the train station for a quick ride to make my 6-7a flight. When I got to Gatwick this morning, the check-in monitors told me to "see my airline". All I could think was "oh, shit." In searching for the easyJet desk, I pass by a woman who is calling out cancelled flights. Once again, "oh, shit." When the woman said, "Cologne," I thought, "oh, 'f' my life." Apparently, these "airlines" don't try to rebook you. You are "recommended" to go home and rebook at no extra cost. Making things better, the woman who announced the cancellation was saying how basically all of the flights FROM LONDON (yes, all flights from all 5 airports) were booked because of the holiday season and the recent bout of bad weather. After queuing for about 2 hours, I was able to find one of the rare ticket desks and booked a ticket to Cologne for tomorrow morning. This time it's with a real airline, Lufthansa, which [hopefully] won't leave you in the dark if something happens (hopefully).
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Rush, Rush, Wait
The past week and its end was like taking a trip: I rushed to get my assignments finished for a successful end to the term as one would rush to compile all of his/her required belongings for a pleasant holiday; I rushed to participate in last-minute School- and non-School-sponsored events as one would rush to try and get to and through the airport; and I waited to pass the weekend for my upcoming holiday break in Germany as one would wait to board the airplane and for it to actually takeoff. Everything turned out well, but nothing was necessarily that fun or intriguing. It was nice that I had time to run some errands in preparation for the holidays, but it is amazing how quickly I get bored when I don't have school or work to occupy the majority of my time.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Crazy Week
'Finals' week! Although I have no 'finals' by name, this week is the last week of the term. I do have "end of the term assessments," though: two essays and two exams. All the assignments don't count toward my final marks for my Master's degree. I don't know how I feel about that. I am still stressing over the quality of the work because I do care about the opinions of the reviewers of my assessments, as well as my tutor. Additionally, the short amount of time within which I must complete everything is a bit overwhelming as well. It also would be nice to have other marks count to my final degree besides the papers that I write in June! I'm sure I'll get through the week (and everything) just fine.
I am getting excited for the holidays. Sadly, I am not going back to the States for the break. I figured that I will only be gone for a year, and that I will be with friends and familiar faces; I will be spending the holidays in Cologne, Germany with my friend, Lea, and her family. Hopefully it snows there because I really miss it!!!! The holiday season just isn't the same with cold and rain.
Wednesday, December 09, 2009
Top o' the Mornin' to Ya!
Ryanair did it to me again. I couldn't resist a £25 roundtrip flight to Dublin for the weekend (a one-way ticket would have cost me 2p, with taxes included!). I was originally supposed to go with a couple of my course mates and meet a friend (a co-worker at Rockets this summer who studies in Poland) there, but I ended up going alone because everyone cancelled for one reason or another. I had a good time, though. It was nice to walk around the city and pop in a museum or castle when I felt it to be appropriate. I saw St. Patrick's Cathedral, Dublin Castle, the Guinness Distillery, the National Museum of Ireland, etc. When I was up and about in the morning--i.e. when I arrived in the city at 7.30 and passed through passport control--I had to restrain myself from saying "top o' the mornin' to ya!". One of my mates at the School is from Northern Ireland, and he said that it wouldn't be appreciated. Graham also said that I would probably get a full-body cavity search at immigration as a response. Haha.
Now the fun begins at school. The next two weeks are packed with deadlines and last minute get-togethers before we leave for the winter break. I have two essays and two exams to do. Each of which is not counted for my final grade (which is both good and bad stress- and urgency-wise), but I still would like to do well! Some things never change in that I REALLY want to do good work!
I hope everyone is enjoying their last few weeks of school before the holidays! I am jealous that Michigan has snow and London has rain. It's hard to get into the holiday spirit without the white-stuff on the ground! Hopefully Germany will have it when I go there to visit Lea and her family for Christmas!
Wednesday, December 02, 2009
Happy World AIDS Day!
Happy World AIDS Day, everyone! This year's World AIDS Day was probably one of the best that I've had: there was some good news from UNAIDS, which published its annual report outlining the current global situation of HIV/AIDS (i.e. more people have access to life-ameliorating antiretroviral drugs than ever before); my School hosted many informative lunchtime seminars on different efforts to combat the virus and had academic conference-style booths that were sponsored by the HIV/AIDS-related research collaborations at LSHTM (it's wonderful to be around people who are, for the most part, interested in major global health events like health awareness days); and governments like South Africa, which have had a bad leadership in its efforts to fight HIV/AIDS, have announced that they are making greater efforts to curb the impact of the virus.
Furthermore, I had a meeting with my academic tutor today. We discussed many things, most notably possible topics for my summer project. There is a great chance that I will be going back to sub-Saharan Africa! YES! I will most likely be doing the MSc summer project on HIV and herpes simplex virus, type 2 ("genital herpes", or HSV-2) co-infection. I am becoming increasingly interested in sexually transmitted infections (STI) and their role in HIV acquisition. The exact research topic within the HIV/HSV-2 field is TBD, but it will probably be investigating the availability and/or accessibility of HIV/HSV-2/STI treatment. Depending on what I decide to do and what opportunities there are, I will be going to either Burkina Faso, Ghana or South Africa!
Furthermore, I had a meeting with my academic tutor today. We discussed many things, most notably possible topics for my summer project. There is a great chance that I will be going back to sub-Saharan Africa! YES! I will most likely be doing the MSc summer project on HIV and herpes simplex virus, type 2 ("genital herpes", or HSV-2) co-infection. I am becoming increasingly interested in sexually transmitted infections (STI) and their role in HIV acquisition. The exact research topic within the HIV/HSV-2 field is TBD, but it will probably be investigating the availability and/or accessibility of HIV/HSV-2/STI treatment. Depending on what I decide to do and what opportunities there are, I will be going to either Burkina Faso, Ghana or South Africa!
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Saturday at a Royal Society
One of the perks about the LSHTM is that it is well-connected to the many different global health and medical societies of London, the UK and even the world. The Royal Society of Medicine and the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene (RSTM&H) are just two examples. Not only are the School's students eligible for membership in these organisations, but we are able to attend the different meetings and conferences sponsored by them. Today's meeting on neglected tropical diseases (NTD) was no exception.
Although it was a Saturday and I had to get up @ 7.30 to make the 9 meeting, the meeting was worth it. The participants were treated to fascinating lectures on schistosomiasis, leprosy, lymphatic filariasis, etc. The presenters were world-class as well; many of the speakers were World Health Organisation programme or office directors and staff, university professors who were the leaders in their respective fields and leaders in other global health organisations. Attendees also were able to receive free membership to the RSTM&H! Jealous?
Unfortunately, though, my parents left this morning to return to the States. That put a damper on the day. I had such a good time with them, as well as with my sister when I went to Spain to visit them all. Hopefully they had a good time too!
Although it was a Saturday and I had to get up @ 7.30 to make the 9 meeting, the meeting was worth it. The participants were treated to fascinating lectures on schistosomiasis, leprosy, lymphatic filariasis, etc. The presenters were world-class as well; many of the speakers were World Health Organisation programme or office directors and staff, university professors who were the leaders in their respective fields and leaders in other global health organisations. Attendees also were able to receive free membership to the RSTM&H! Jealous?
Unfortunately, though, my parents left this morning to return to the States. That put a damper on the day. I had such a good time with them, as well as with my sister when I went to Spain to visit them all. Hopefully they had a good time too!
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Granada (plus London) con mi familia
Every Friday, my course mates ask me: "Drew, where are you going this weekend?" It was no surprise to them that this week I answered with a location outside of London: "Granada, Spain." However, I had a reason to hop on a budget airline with its destination being another European country. My parents would be visiting my sister, so I figured that I'd go and spend time with them because I would not be going home for Christmas this year.
We had good, quality family time. Amy was able to take us around the city to show us the main sights. The coolest attraction, by far, was the Alhambra. This fortress was the last stronghold of the Moors in Spain. Not only was the architecture and grounds amazingly beautiful (i.e. the arched doorways, tiled floors and walls, intricate wooden ceilings and carved walls), but the views of the city from the compound were beautiful. ¡Me gusta! I thought that the city's main cathedral was lovely, too, but it didn't compare with la Alhambra!
Now, my parents are visiting me in London! They will be here until Saturday. We are having a good time. Unfortunately I have class during the day, so I am only able to see them for lunch, dinner and some of the evening following food. This works out because they are able to see all of the sights that I have already seen, plus visit all of the touristy shops that I LOATHE. I will be able to be with them all day Friday, though.P.S.: Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!
Friday, November 20, 2009
Course Choices
Our selection for our modules in the upcoming terms, Terms 2 & 3, were due today. It seems as if I wasn't the only one who was stressing out about which courses we should take; everyone was debating with others and themselves on which courses would be the best. The course director for the Control of Infectious Diseases, as well as all of the literature pertaining to module selection, stressed how important our choices were and how it was difficult to change them once we submitted the form. However, we were given some direction on how to go about picking the courses (i.e. choose the courses that are pertinent to what you want to do as a summer project and what you ultimately want to do as a career), in addition to the course descriptions and previous timetables. It was still difficult to choose the six courses because many interesting and applicable to what I'd like to do, especially when a single time slot had several courses that would be useful. Overall, I decided to go heavy on skills-based modules, which would give me a firm understanding of epidemiology and public health [studies].
After much vacillation between "final decisions" on what exactly to choose, this is what my next two terms look like:
Primary Health Care: Principles, Applications and Challenges
Design and Analysis of Epidemiological Studies
Disease Control Programmes in Developing Countries
Epidemiology of Communicable Diseases
Applying Public Health Principles in Developing Countries
Control of Reproductive Tract Infections/Sexually Transmitted Infections
I am happy with my final [final final final final...] decision. It is possible to take courses, such as Health Care Evaluation and AIDS, as "distance learning" courses. These won't count towards my final MSc marks, but I will be able to maximise my knowledge and experience here.
After much vacillation between "final decisions" on what exactly to choose, this is what my next two terms look like:
Primary Health Care: Principles, Applications and Challenges
Design and Analysis of Epidemiological Studies
Disease Control Programmes in Developing Countries
Epidemiology of Communicable Diseases
Applying Public Health Principles in Developing Countries
Control of Reproductive Tract Infections/Sexually Transmitted Infections
I am happy with my final [final final final final...] decision. It is possible to take courses, such as Health Care Evaluation and AIDS, as "distance learning" courses. These won't count towards my final MSc marks, but I will be able to maximise my knowledge and experience here.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
8 days + 4 cities + 2 countries & continents = 1 GREAT Reading Week
Half of the first term has already expired. It has been scary how fast my short time at the LSHTM is melting away. Since I am only plan on being here for a year, I decided to make the most of my fall break ("Reading Week" as it is called) by leaving Britain to explore Europe and the surrounding area. I decided that Spain and Morocco were the perfect candidates for such an excursion. I did bring school work with the intention of actually doing some reading, but, as per usual, I didn't get as much studying in as I would have liked.
First on the list was Barcelona, Spain. My sister, Amy, is currently studying in Granada, which is in the south of the country. I had never been to Spain before, so I figured it would be appropriate to make sure that my little sister was doing well by visiting her. We both heard stories of how Barcelona was a picturesque city, culturally different than the rest of Spain in its Catalan hertiage, with many things to do and see, so we went! The visit was a spectacular start to the week: the weather was warm, the monuments were appealing and the city's pace was relatively laid-back. Our weekend rendez-vous started off at the Sagrada Familia, Antoni Gaudi's unfinished cathedral. It was off to Gaudi's Parc Güell, which also boasted unique and interesting architectural features. We slowly made our way across the city to pass the rest of the day, and finished the evening with a stop at the Picasso Museum and a water, light and music show at the Magic Fountains. Another park, the Parc de Montjuïc, and the castle within it was the highlight of our second day. We took the cable cars up to the castle, which boasted gorgeous panoramic views of the city. Before parting ways, we visited Las Ramblas, a major thoroughfare for shopping and down the city's centre and Barri Gòtic (Gothic Neighbourhood). Sadly, our time together in Barcelona finished before we were able to see anything else.
Amy and I both went south after parting ways: she to Granada, and me to Marrakech in southern Morocco. This was my first trip to a predominately-Muslim country. What a phenomenal cultural experience. It didn't feel like I was in Africa, but in the Middle East. It's easy to see why North Africa is classified with the Middle East in reports and other endeavours: the climate was warm, dry and not far from a desert, the major religion is shared and many foods and other cultural practices are similar. If you ever have a chance to go to Morocco, GO!
Whilst in Marrakech, I was able to meet one of my course mates who also was visiting the city. It was nice to have company as in Barcelona. We were able to visit several crowded souks (markets), hidden and crumbling palaces, ancient tombs and ornately-decorated madersas (Islamic schools). Too bad we couldn't go into any mosques because we weren't Muslim, otherwise we would have basically seen just about everything in the Medina (the walled, old city)! Not only was it nice to see the sights during the day, but the main square--in which snake charmers, monkey trainers and assorted vendors selling fruits, souvenirs and crafts were located--turned into steaming, white-roofed food stalls at night. We ate at Stall no. 95, where only Moroccans were eating. That is a good sign; the tourist stalls were overpriced and selling the exact same things. We made a good choice because the lentils and mint tea were delicious. It only set us back 15 dirhams, or 1,5€ (about $2). Not only were these experiences culturally and historically rich, but the food was amazingly good and cheap, too! Also, given that Morocco was an ex-colony of France, I was able to speak French with basically everyone! I really would like to continue to better my language skills since I was already starting to get a bit rusty from not speaking it regularly for about a year now.
The 1.5 days that I spent in the city was a good introduction, but not enough as was the case in Barcelona. However, it was time to catch the train to Fès, a city the northern part of the country. The train ride was long--8 hours (Marrakech in the centre south to Casablanca and Rabat [the capital] on the Atlantic coast to my final destination in the centre north)--but nice because I was able to meet some extremely kind Moroccans and see vast parts of the country: deserts, mountains, the ocean, fields and many communities, both large and small. I had conversations with a young businessman working on microfinance, an elderly couple heading into the capital for business and a Master's student who ended up showing me the way to my hotel in Fès.
I was less-impressed with Fès than what I expected to be. I stayed in the new part of the city and had a hard time finding my way into the Medina. However, once there, I was able to wind my way through the narrow, food and souvenir stall-lined passages to eventually find some of the famed madersas and tanneries. These sights were impressive, but I had lost the initial awe from being in an unfamiliar place with an unfamiliar culture. Furthermore, I was getting tired of people hassling me to come into their stall for "just a look" and random people trying to act as my tour guide. Too bad for them that I was an increasingly-annoyed, cheap and [relatively] poor student. All I wanted to do was spend the day exploring the city--I didn't care if I got lost (if I did, I would have went nuts).
After spending the typical 1.5-2 days in the city, I moved on. This time it was to Madrid. The cheapest flight from Morocco to London was via Spain. Before I went on holiday, I couldn't decide to which major Spanish city I'd go: Barcelona or Madrid. I settled on both! I was quite exhausted by the time I arrived. I saw all I wanted to see in the subsequent 1.5 days, though: the Palacio Real, Plaza de España and de Cibeles, the Prado and Reina Sofia Museums (the latter houses many of Picasso's works, most notably "Guernica"), Puerta del Sol, the Gran Via, Botanical Gardens and Alacá Gate. By Sunday, despite the fact that I had a wonderful culturally and historically rich holiday, I was ready to return back home to London. Madrid never slept!
Overall, I had such a great time over Reading Week. I was glad that I was able to explore several unique and culturally diverse places (thank you Ryanair and easyJet for your almost comically cheap flights). I will admit that I was a bit over ambitious, as per usual, in trying to maximise my [travel] experiences over the week in going to so many cities/destinations. I do feel that I was able to gain an appreciation for the peoples, cultures, art, architecture, etc. of each place that I visited, though. Sadly, though, I feel as if I did a naughty thing by venturing beyond Europe's borders--I now am even more curious and willing to take chances on going to more "exotic" places in less-travelled and less-developed countries. Merde ?
It's back to Spain this weekend (Granada) to spend time with my parents (who are over to visit my sister and I). However, Dublin follows that as the city of choice for the 1st weekend of December and Germany + Greece? or Turkey? or ??? over the Christmas holiday...
...I promise that I am going to school here in London, haha.
First on the list was Barcelona, Spain. My sister, Amy, is currently studying in Granada, which is in the south of the country. I had never been to Spain before, so I figured it would be appropriate to make sure that my little sister was doing well by visiting her. We both heard stories of how Barcelona was a picturesque city, culturally different than the rest of Spain in its Catalan hertiage, with many things to do and see, so we went! The visit was a spectacular start to the week: the weather was warm, the monuments were appealing and the city's pace was relatively laid-back. Our weekend rendez-vous started off at the Sagrada Familia, Antoni Gaudi's unfinished cathedral. It was off to Gaudi's Parc Güell, which also boasted unique and interesting architectural features. We slowly made our way across the city to pass the rest of the day, and finished the evening with a stop at the Picasso Museum and a water, light and music show at the Magic Fountains. Another park, the Parc de Montjuïc, and the castle within it was the highlight of our second day. We took the cable cars up to the castle, which boasted gorgeous panoramic views of the city. Before parting ways, we visited Las Ramblas, a major thoroughfare for shopping and down the city's centre and Barri Gòtic (Gothic Neighbourhood). Sadly, our time together in Barcelona finished before we were able to see anything else.
Amy and I both went south after parting ways: she to Granada, and me to Marrakech in southern Morocco. This was my first trip to a predominately-Muslim country. What a phenomenal cultural experience. It didn't feel like I was in Africa, but in the Middle East. It's easy to see why North Africa is classified with the Middle East in reports and other endeavours: the climate was warm, dry and not far from a desert, the major religion is shared and many foods and other cultural practices are similar. If you ever have a chance to go to Morocco, GO!
I was less-impressed with Fès than what I expected to be. I stayed in the new part of the city and had a hard time finding my way into the Medina. However, once there, I was able to wind my way through the narrow, food and souvenir stall-lined passages to eventually find some of the famed madersas and tanneries. These sights were impressive, but I had lost the initial awe from being in an unfamiliar place with an unfamiliar culture. Furthermore, I was getting tired of people hassling me to come into their stall for "just a look" and random people trying to act as my tour guide. Too bad for them that I was an increasingly-annoyed, cheap and [relatively] poor student. All I wanted to do was spend the day exploring the city--I didn't care if I got lost (if I did, I would have went nuts).
Overall, I had such a great time over Reading Week. I was glad that I was able to explore several unique and culturally diverse places (thank you Ryanair and easyJet for your almost comically cheap flights). I will admit that I was a bit over ambitious, as per usual, in trying to maximise my [travel] experiences over the week in going to so many cities/destinations. I do feel that I was able to gain an appreciation for the peoples, cultures, art, architecture, etc. of each place that I visited, though. Sadly, though, I feel as if I did a naughty thing by venturing beyond Europe's borders--I now am even more curious and willing to take chances on going to more "exotic" places in less-travelled and less-developed countries. Merde ?It's back to Spain this weekend (Granada) to spend time with my parents (who are over to visit my sister and I). However, Dublin follows that as the city of choice for the 1st weekend of December and Germany + Greece? or Turkey? or ??? over the Christmas holiday...
...I promise that I am going to school here in London, haha.
Friday, November 06, 2009
An Eventful Week-ish
This past week/week-and-a-half have been rather busy. In addition to my school commitments--reading, preparation for lectures, etc.--I have had several non-school functions that were notable. I am trying to find a balance between school and the MANY activities that are part of living in London. Hopefully my efforts aren't in vain.
Halloween in London isn't much different from the "holiday" back in the States. Everyone my age, where my age is the range associated with being a student in uni, takes it as a chance to go out and have a good night out on the town. Let's just say that trick-or-treating wasn't on the agenda. I don't think that it is for little children, either. I'm not exactly sure, so take that statement/observation with scepticism. Regardless, I couldn't decide what to be. One of my mates who lives in Connaught Hall with me was going out to Camden Town, a London borough just north of mine (Camden), to get a costume. After seeing all of the touristy shops/stalls in the markets, I decided to go as an obnoxious American tourist. It was awesomely bad: I got sun glasses and a tie with the Union Jack plastered on them, as well as an "I ♥ London" shirt to go along with my fanny pack, tour book and camera. With my shorts, long socks and American-style 'trainers' (tennis shoes) on, pretty much everyone knew what I was when I arrived in the bar for the [Connaught] Hall's Halloween Party. The costume was well-liked. I had a blast getting to know my hallmates better and celebrating Halloween.
Another fun event that occurred over the week was the city-wide event of turning on London's Christmas lights (Tuesday, 03 Nov.). A few of my classmates and I decided to go after class. The main venue was on Oxford Circus, where Jim Carrey (the American actor) was to be this year's celebrity guest to turn on the lights. There were tons of people. We were kept waiting for the main event by several music acts, several of which were famous groups (I had no clue who they were--the Saturdays, Taio Cruz, etc.--because I am still a naive foreigner when it comes to British pop culture). However, the main event wasn't very spectacular. Jim Carrey was somewhat funny, and Boris Johnson, the Mayor of London, who accompanied him was rather bland as well (he is quite quirky in interviews and other public appearances, but that really didn't show through).
And finally, in between the aforementioned events and some school-related activities over the past few days (i.e. I led a seminar on health policy networks and issue groups with a classmate), there was today: Guy Fawkes Day! Britons commemorate the failure of this gentleman's attempt to blow-up the British Houses of Parliament with gunpowder in 1605. He's the bloke with the mask in the movie "V for Vendetta." Remember, remember the 5th of November!! I could spend a substantial amount of time explaining the event, but am too lazy right now. Haha. Google "Guy Fawkes" or "Guy Fawkes Night" to get a better understanding of this event. Or simply check out these Wikipedia articles on Guy Fawkes and Guy Fawkes Night.
A few of my hallmates and I went out to see the traditional fireworks, bonfires and other pyrotechnic events that take place throughout the city. We were going to go to Primrose Hill (apparently one has panoramic views of the city), but we decided to go down to the River Thames to check out the Parliament Building, London Eye and Westminster area. As you can see from the picture, Mr. Fawkes and his conspirators failed in the Gunpowder Plot because the building is still there!!! It was SPECTACULAR! We could see fireworks in the distance. They were above the beautifully-lit buildings.
The past week/1.5 week has been great. I have managed to successfully juggle studies and school responsibilities with social events in London. Next week I have Reading Week, which is the equivalent to Fall Break. I will be visiting my sister, Amy, who is currently studying in Spain. We are meeting in Barcelona for the weekend. After that, I will be travelling to Marrakesh and Fès, Morocco for 5 days. Before returning to London, it's off to Madrid, Spain for the final weekend of the week!!! This is my first holiday outside of the UK since arriving here to study. It should be GREAT!!! Expect a post after 14 Nov. when I return.
Halloween in London isn't much different from the "holiday" back in the States. Everyone my age, where my age is the range associated with being a student in uni, takes it as a chance to go out and have a good night out on the town. Let's just say that trick-or-treating wasn't on the agenda. I don't think that it is for little children, either. I'm not exactly sure, so take that statement/observation with scepticism. Regardless, I couldn't decide what to be. One of my mates who lives in Connaught Hall with me was going out to Camden Town, a London borough just north of mine (Camden), to get a costume. After seeing all of the touristy shops/stalls in the markets, I decided to go as an obnoxious American tourist. It was awesomely bad: I got sun glasses and a tie with the Union Jack plastered on them, as well as an "I ♥ London" shirt to go along with my fanny pack, tour book and camera. With my shorts, long socks and American-style 'trainers' (tennis shoes) on, pretty much everyone knew what I was when I arrived in the bar for the [Connaught] Hall's Halloween Party. The costume was well-liked. I had a blast getting to know my hallmates better and celebrating Halloween.
Another fun event that occurred over the week was the city-wide event of turning on London's Christmas lights (Tuesday, 03 Nov.). A few of my classmates and I decided to go after class. The main venue was on Oxford Circus, where Jim Carrey (the American actor) was to be this year's celebrity guest to turn on the lights. There were tons of people. We were kept waiting for the main event by several music acts, several of which were famous groups (I had no clue who they were--the Saturdays, Taio Cruz, etc.--because I am still a naive foreigner when it comes to British pop culture). However, the main event wasn't very spectacular. Jim Carrey was somewhat funny, and Boris Johnson, the Mayor of London, who accompanied him was rather bland as well (he is quite quirky in interviews and other public appearances, but that really didn't show through).
And finally, in between the aforementioned events and some school-related activities over the past few days (i.e. I led a seminar on health policy networks and issue groups with a classmate), there was today: Guy Fawkes Day! Britons commemorate the failure of this gentleman's attempt to blow-up the British Houses of Parliament with gunpowder in 1605. He's the bloke with the mask in the movie "V for Vendetta." Remember, remember the 5th of November!! I could spend a substantial amount of time explaining the event, but am too lazy right now. Haha. Google "Guy Fawkes" or "Guy Fawkes Night" to get a better understanding of this event. Or simply check out these Wikipedia articles on Guy Fawkes and Guy Fawkes Night.
The past week/1.5 week has been great. I have managed to successfully juggle studies and school responsibilities with social events in London. Next week I have Reading Week, which is the equivalent to Fall Break. I will be visiting my sister, Amy, who is currently studying in Spain. We are meeting in Barcelona for the weekend. After that, I will be travelling to Marrakesh and Fès, Morocco for 5 days. Before returning to London, it's off to Madrid, Spain for the final weekend of the week!!! This is my first holiday outside of the UK since arriving here to study. It should be GREAT!!! Expect a post after 14 Nov. when I return.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Presentations, Meetings and More!
I have been in the UK for over a month now and am already in a routine. It is now getting easier to juggle class, study/reading and the everyday life activities.
This past week has been a bit different, though. My first "assignment" for submission was due this week: a presentation. The subject was of my choosing, so I presented on my experiences in undergrad that led me to become interested in HIV/AIDS. It went well. My tutor, by whom the project was assigned, and one of my fellow classmates seemed to like the presentation.
Over the week I also was able to meet with a faculty member who possibly could be my summer project supervisor. Yes, the subject will be HIV/AIDS. The professor is one of the best policy researchers of the School, so I will be investigating an aspect of the politics of HIV/AIDS if I am able to work under him. Hopefully things work out!
I managed to squeeze in some culture this week as well. The tour guide who took us around Bloomsbury during Orientation Week recommended that we take advantage of the free museums in the area, one of which being the Wellcome Trust-sponsored Wellcome Collection. I finally was able to take advantage of the recommendation. It had great, medically-focused exhibits on microscopic imaging, medical tools and artefacts of yesteryear and other health-related exhibits. It's worth seeing if you are interested in health and/or medicine.
This past week has been a bit different, though. My first "assignment" for submission was due this week: a presentation. The subject was of my choosing, so I presented on my experiences in undergrad that led me to become interested in HIV/AIDS. It went well. My tutor, by whom the project was assigned, and one of my fellow classmates seemed to like the presentation.
Over the week I also was able to meet with a faculty member who possibly could be my summer project supervisor. Yes, the subject will be HIV/AIDS. The professor is one of the best policy researchers of the School, so I will be investigating an aspect of the politics of HIV/AIDS if I am able to work under him. Hopefully things work out!
I managed to squeeze in some culture this week as well. The tour guide who took us around Bloomsbury during Orientation Week recommended that we take advantage of the free museums in the area, one of which being the Wellcome Trust-sponsored Wellcome Collection. I finally was able to take advantage of the recommendation. It had great, medically-focused exhibits on microscopic imaging, medical tools and artefacts of yesteryear and other health-related exhibits. It's worth seeing if you are interested in health and/or medicine.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Sunday in St. Albans
My tutor/academic advisor invited his students to his home in St. Albans, a "suburb" of London that lies 30 miles north of the city, today. The outing was a chance for us to meet and get to know each other better over lunch and an afternoon away from busy London. It was splendid: the food was plentiful and delicious, the company was insightful and friendly and St. Albans was quintessentially British (i.e. it had many pubs, green spaces, old cookie-cutter brick homes down curving streets and a gorgeous Gothic cathedral) and lovely. Being able to interact with my peers and my tutor outside of the academic setting was refreshing (as well as getting a wonderfully prepared home-cooked meal in a slower-paced atmosphere); speaking causally about everyday life (for the most part) adds a level of humanity and, thus, comfort to the working relationship.
Friday, October 23, 2009
"Free" Morning
My class on respiratory infections this morning was cancelled because the prof thought that our lecture was next week. Lame. A group of my classmates and I decided to make the most of the morning: a quick tour of the British Museum! I still was able to learn, albeit about ancient cultures and civilisations versus bugs that love to live in your chest. How cool is having a major, highly reputable museum a block from your school so you can pop in for leisurely browsing when class gets cancelled? Answer: EXTREMELY COOL! I also was able to walk around and eat my lunch outside in Russell Square to take advantage of the warm, sunny weather (16C, 61F). After lunch and a trip to an Indian sweets shop with one of my classmates/friends, I had a 3.5 hour lecture on some of the different viral haemorrhagic fevers: Ebola, Marburg, Yellow, etc. What a great way to finish off the week!
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Edinburgh o'er the Weekend
No true Alma College Scot would be complete without a trip to his/her "homeland". Despite the fact that I had to wait until I graduated, I finally made it to bonnie Scotland. Although I've been gone from the school for a short while, it was so nice to hear "Scotland the Brave" on bagpipes again. The locals apparently have caught on to the fact that tourists love to hear and see pipers as street performers.
I took the night bus to and from Edinburgh, the Scottish capital, for a weekend visit. Sorry Cardiff, Wales, but Edinburgh was much more captivating in both character and number of attractions (London still is a strong #1 for that position, though).
I arrived in Edinburgh just as the sun was starting to rise, at around 7.45. Not only did the crisp autumn air shook the grogginess off of me from the less-than-ideal night's sleep, but the sight of the city's Old Town across the valley took my breath away with its beauty (see above). Spectacular!
Wasting no time, I headed east to the famed Arthur's Seat in Holyrood Park. It offered marvellous panoramic views of the city, especially on such a nearly-cloudless day. The hike to the summit of the 186m (610ft) peak was the start of a great weekend. I followed a Scotsman up to the top who offered me pointers as to which was the best and quickest route, but made a bit of a mistake in descending the Seat alone via what looked to be the water drainage root (I realised that when it was too late...about half-way down the hill). Oops. It was an adventure, given the many slips that could have easily been my last. Haha. I am surprised that I made it down in one piece!
It was a bit windy up there (as you can see per the wind-blown hair...).
At the bottom of the hill and park were the Scottish Parliament and Holyrood Castle (the official residence of Her Majesty the Queen whilst in Scotland). After I toured the latter, I made my way to Calton Hill. The Nelson Memorial offered nice views of the city as well. One could see down one of the main streets, Princes Street, and across the city.
The rest of my day was devoted to doing outside activities: walking up and down some of the main streets (Queen, Princes, the Royal Mile, etc.) and going to see the castle! Medieval history seemed to be a major theme in Edinburgh. It was so fascinating! The sheer length of the time frame in which humans have occupied Europe and left their mark through written, painted or constructed works is so interesting and enthralling. That's another reason why I LOVE Europe. There's just so much history!
Sunday was my last day in town before I got back on the bus to London. The weather wasn't as nice; the clouds and rain that I expected to be present all weekend did indeed make a day-long appearance. You can't go to Scotland without experiencing the lovely Scottish weather, eh? I didn't mind. I checked out the museums that I failed to see the previous day (i.e. the National Museum of Scotland and the Scottish National Portrait Gallery). I did some last-minute exploration of the city--touring St. Giles' Cathedral, walking the Grassmarket and strolling through the Princes Street Gardens--before I got on the night bus for London.
Overall, the weekend was phenomenal. I was so glad that I decided to start to increasingly explore the UK. There are so many diverse places here. A great example of this is Scotland and Wales themselves, which although both occupy different locations of the island and are integral members of Great Britain, have completely different ways of and outlooks on life and Britishness. It was interesting to experience the ambiance of each city and get a taste of the Welsh and Scottish peoples and heritage. For instance, whereas Wales seemingly has made a point to preserve its language and culture through bilingual signs but remains firmly under British control, Scotland appears to not have as vehemently guarded their language but has taken more of a nationalist approach to gain ever-increasing autonomy from the UK as a whole. You would think it would be the opposite. How intriguing.
I arrived in Edinburgh just as the sun was starting to rise, at around 7.45. Not only did the crisp autumn air shook the grogginess off of me from the less-than-ideal night's sleep, but the sight of the city's Old Town across the valley took my breath away with its beauty (see above). Spectacular!
Wasting no time, I headed east to the famed Arthur's Seat in Holyrood Park. It offered marvellous panoramic views of the city, especially on such a nearly-cloudless day. The hike to the summit of the 186m (610ft) peak was the start of a great weekend. I followed a Scotsman up to the top who offered me pointers as to which was the best and quickest route, but made a bit of a mistake in descending the Seat alone via what looked to be the water drainage root (I realised that when it was too late...about half-way down the hill). Oops. It was an adventure, given the many slips that could have easily been my last. Haha. I am surprised that I made it down in one piece!
It was a bit windy up there (as you can see per the wind-blown hair...).
At the bottom of the hill and park were the Scottish Parliament and Holyrood Castle (the official residence of Her Majesty the Queen whilst in Scotland). After I toured the latter, I made my way to Calton Hill. The Nelson Memorial offered nice views of the city as well. One could see down one of the main streets, Princes Street, and across the city.
The rest of my day was devoted to doing outside activities: walking up and down some of the main streets (Queen, Princes, the Royal Mile, etc.) and going to see the castle! Medieval history seemed to be a major theme in Edinburgh. It was so fascinating! The sheer length of the time frame in which humans have occupied Europe and left their mark through written, painted or constructed works is so interesting and enthralling. That's another reason why I LOVE Europe. There's just so much history!
Sunday was my last day in town before I got back on the bus to London. The weather wasn't as nice; the clouds and rain that I expected to be present all weekend did indeed make a day-long appearance. You can't go to Scotland without experiencing the lovely Scottish weather, eh? I didn't mind. I checked out the museums that I failed to see the previous day (i.e. the National Museum of Scotland and the Scottish National Portrait Gallery). I did some last-minute exploration of the city--touring St. Giles' Cathedral, walking the Grassmarket and strolling through the Princes Street Gardens--before I got on the night bus for London.
Overall, the weekend was phenomenal. I was so glad that I decided to start to increasingly explore the UK. There are so many diverse places here. A great example of this is Scotland and Wales themselves, which although both occupy different locations of the island and are integral members of Great Britain, have completely different ways of and outlooks on life and Britishness. It was interesting to experience the ambiance of each city and get a taste of the Welsh and Scottish peoples and heritage. For instance, whereas Wales seemingly has made a point to preserve its language and culture through bilingual signs but remains firmly under British control, Scotland appears to not have as vehemently guarded their language but has taken more of a nationalist approach to gain ever-increasing autonomy from the UK as a whole. You would think it would be the opposite. How intriguing.
Friday, October 16, 2009
The Golden Poo Awards
One of the really cool things about London is the diversity. It's peoples, boroughs and events cover a wide range of cultures, endeavours and events. A great example of this is the event to which I went this evening: the Golden Poo Awards 2009. This event recognised efforts of peoples around the world to combat the nasty things (i.e. diarrhoea) that result from the poo that's transferred from person to person after a visit to the loo without washing one's hands with soap. The ultimate message was "Clean hands save lives."
15 October was Global Handwashing Day. To raise awareness, the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine partnered with the UK's Department for International Development (DfID) and other organisations that work to combat disease and promote public health, sanitation and hygiene. The School hosted an event--the Golden Poo Awards--to increase awareness about the results of our vile habit of not washing hands properly after using the toilet. Such an action makes us susceptible to unpleasant, disease-causing bugs. This is especially a problem in the developing world, where diarrhoeal disorders per diseases transmitted by faecal matter kill annually millions of children under five.
The main feature of the awards was a film competition. Six short films to raise proper hygiene awareness that were entered in the London Film Festival (which is currently on-going) competed for the coveted Golden Poo Award. They were all cartoons and lasted about 2ish minutes each. Some of them were hilarious (i.e. animals dancing to up-beat music whilst pooing and washing their hands), while others were pretty disgusting (i.e. cartoon people pooing on their hands and touching others to overtly demonstrate that is basically what you do if you don't wash your hands). I won't be a spoiler and tell you which one won (hint: it's one of the films that I just described; I voted for the loser...). The event organisers are putting the films on YouTube. It's worth checking them out, as well as the website: www.globalhandwashingday.org.uk. The videos, as well as other details of the awards, should be on that website.
PS--It was great to be around and go to the awards with people who get as excited as I do about [diarrhoeal] infections of bacteria and viruses, as well as bodily functions, like pooing, in general. This place is GREAT!
15 October was Global Handwashing Day. To raise awareness, the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine partnered with the UK's Department for International Development (DfID) and other organisations that work to combat disease and promote public health, sanitation and hygiene. The School hosted an event--the Golden Poo Awards--to increase awareness about the results of our vile habit of not washing hands properly after using the toilet. Such an action makes us susceptible to unpleasant, disease-causing bugs. This is especially a problem in the developing world, where diarrhoeal disorders per diseases transmitted by faecal matter kill annually millions of children under five.
The main feature of the awards was a film competition. Six short films to raise proper hygiene awareness that were entered in the London Film Festival (which is currently on-going) competed for the coveted Golden Poo Award. They were all cartoons and lasted about 2ish minutes each. Some of them were hilarious (i.e. animals dancing to up-beat music whilst pooing and washing their hands), while others were pretty disgusting (i.e. cartoon people pooing on their hands and touching others to overtly demonstrate that is basically what you do if you don't wash your hands). I won't be a spoiler and tell you which one won (hint: it's one of the films that I just described; I voted for the loser...). The event organisers are putting the films on YouTube. It's worth checking them out, as well as the website: www.globalhandwashingday.org.uk. The videos, as well as other details of the awards, should be on that website.
PS--It was great to be around and go to the awards with people who get as excited as I do about [diarrhoeal] infections of bacteria and viruses, as well as bodily functions, like pooing, in general. This place is GREAT!
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Long Day
Wednesday is finally over. "Hump day" looks as if it will be my longest day of the week during this term. Sitting in multiple lectures and practicals all day was rather exhausting.
I started off the day early (8.00) with "Grand Rounds" at the Hospital for Tropical Diseases (HTD). One of my peers told me about the lecture series at the travel clinic every Wed. morning, and invited me to go with him this week. I leapt at the offer. The presentation was really informative. The presenter was a clinician and researcher of central nervous system tuberculosis (CNS TB). The first 15 minutes of the presentation was a case study, but the subsequent 45 minutes was a bit over my head because the medic went into the immunology and microbiology of the disease (as much as I love immuno and micro, it is a bit hard to 'digest' on an empty stomach at 8 in the morning). The rest of the day was jam-packed with lectures and practicals: Extended Epidemiology from 9.30-12.30, Lassa fever lecture from 12.30-13.30, Health Policy/Planning/Power from 14.00-17.00 and an inaugural lecture of the Royal Society for Tropical Medicine & Hygiene's first woman president from 17.30-18.30. Yikes! My brain is fried. I never thought that I'd say that I'd be too tired to do and am uninterested in reading. I've got plenty of it--more than is physically possible...ugh.
I started off the day early (8.00) with "Grand Rounds" at the Hospital for Tropical Diseases (HTD). One of my peers told me about the lecture series at the travel clinic every Wed. morning, and invited me to go with him this week. I leapt at the offer. The presentation was really informative. The presenter was a clinician and researcher of central nervous system tuberculosis (CNS TB). The first 15 minutes of the presentation was a case study, but the subsequent 45 minutes was a bit over my head because the medic went into the immunology and microbiology of the disease (as much as I love immuno and micro, it is a bit hard to 'digest' on an empty stomach at 8 in the morning). The rest of the day was jam-packed with lectures and practicals: Extended Epidemiology from 9.30-12.30, Lassa fever lecture from 12.30-13.30, Health Policy/Planning/Power from 14.00-17.00 and an inaugural lecture of the Royal Society for Tropical Medicine & Hygiene's first woman president from 17.30-18.30. Yikes! My brain is fried. I never thought that I'd say that I'd be too tired to do and am uninterested in reading. I've got plenty of it--more than is physically possible...ugh.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Weekend in Wales
The end of my first week came rather quickly. I am still getting used to the fact that there are really no assigned/required readings or assignments, but only ones that are recommended or optional (however, as you all figured, I will not be able to rest until I have completed them to ensure that I gain the best understanding of the subject materials. That means I'm doing the suggested readings and exercises plus more if possible...). Also, it may be another week or so before I fully get used to the demanding 9.30-17 daily schedule of lectures, seminars and practicals. Grad school is challenging, but interesting and fun. I decided to get away from the city to take some time to collect my thoughts so as not to get overwhelmed. It's been nearly three weeks since I arrived in London, so I figured that I should start exploring beyond the city. I was thinking about visiting Windsor Castle in Windsor or Cambridge over the weekend, which are a both a short train ride away from London, but I settled on something else: Wales!
Cardiff Bay was the second part of the city that I explored. The buildings that occupied this quarter of town had an eclectic mix of old and new architectural styles/designs. Apparently Cardiff has had a revival in that the port took some time to modernise and convert from a major exporting port to a major importing port. The Senate of the National Assembly for Wales was located on the bay (the building with the flat roof and glass walls), as well as the multi-venue Millennium Centre (the golden "domed" building), the unique Cardiff Visitor's Centre ("the Tube"; pictured below) and the vast Mermaid Quay shopping centre (the collection of buildings in the left of the picture). 
Edinburgh, Scotland is on the "to see" list for next weekend! I've heard it's a bit nicer than Cardiff, so it should be a good excursion.
Monday, October 05, 2009
The First Day of School
Every young person wishes for a half-day of school. I got one on the first day! The only class that I had today was my statistics course. The lecture topics seemed rather simple: data and distributions. The practical session wasn't bad either. We spent the time going over what we had learned 30 minutes earlier. If stats continues to be like this all term, Mondays are going to be low stress. They also will be welcomed because I am not in class all day!
Despite the fact that I have had only one day of classes, I am already beginning to see the differences between education here in the UK versus the US. This may only be LSHTM- or postgraduate school-specific, but it is still interesting nonetheless. The stats course is a requirement for many courses in the school. The lecture theatre--the biggest in the School--was crammed full of people. My largest class at Alma contained about 40-50 people. It was such a big change from my "norm". There were at least two to four times that amount today. I sat in the first couple rows, which was about eye-level with the lecturer. I felt as if I was barely noticeable in the crowd. However, the LSHTM is by no means is it a large school because it only has about 800 students. My comfort apparently still lies within a small school atmosphere!
The other big difference that I've noticed is what we are expected to do to prepare for the lectures, seminars and practicals. There are only "recommended" readings for the classes that are listed on "reading lists", versus assigned textbooks. We are also told to supplement our classes with outside reading. Lectures only briefly touch on the relevant topic, and are extremely quick-paced. Education in the UK is really 100% what you make of it. I better get started on making it a great, enriching experience--it's reading time!
Despite the fact that I have had only one day of classes, I am already beginning to see the differences between education here in the UK versus the US. This may only be LSHTM- or postgraduate school-specific, but it is still interesting nonetheless. The stats course is a requirement for many courses in the school. The lecture theatre--the biggest in the School--was crammed full of people. My largest class at Alma contained about 40-50 people. It was such a big change from my "norm". There were at least two to four times that amount today. I sat in the first couple rows, which was about eye-level with the lecturer. I felt as if I was barely noticeable in the crowd. However, the LSHTM is by no means is it a large school because it only has about 800 students. My comfort apparently still lies within a small school atmosphere!
The other big difference that I've noticed is what we are expected to do to prepare for the lectures, seminars and practicals. There are only "recommended" readings for the classes that are listed on "reading lists", versus assigned textbooks. We are also told to supplement our classes with outside reading. Lectures only briefly touch on the relevant topic, and are extremely quick-paced. Education in the UK is really 100% what you make of it. I better get started on making it a great, enriching experience--it's reading time!
Sunday, October 04, 2009
Final Days of Freedom
The past few days have been great. It was nice to relax and take in more of the city before classes start on Monday. With the exception of Monday, I have class every day all day until Christmas break: 9.30-17.00, with a 1.5 break between 12.30 and 14.00 for lunch. This is reminiscent of high school (class all day), but with a longer lunch. Meh. I am getting my degree in one year versus two if I were getting the equivalent degree in the States, so I guess the School really means "intensive" when they say it. I'll survive as I always do.
Choosing my classes was particularly hard this year. Alma was a small school, with a limited number of classes from which to choose for each term. There were a few classes that I would have liked to have taken but I didn't have time. I don't feel as if my education was discounted because of that, though. It feels a little different here. This term, "Term 1," allows us to take up to six modules and doesn't have many choices for electives. My course--Control of Infectious Diseases (CID)--has to take basic statistics, an epidemiology course, health economics and/or health policy/processes/power (HPPP) and a course on disease agents and their control. We could have chosen basic epidemiology, health economics and HPPP or extended epidemiology and either health economics or HPPP. I was so conflicted with what to choose. I have always been extremely interested in health policy (I designed my undergrad major around it), so I knew that I would be taking the policy course. However, the crux of my decision was whether or not to take the basic epi so I could take both the policy and econ, or to take the extended epi with just the policy course. Both epi and health economics are extremely important; epidemiology (the study of disease patterns in populations) is the foundation of public health, whereas health economics is crucial to be successful in creating good policy. I finally chose the extended epi and health policy after mapping out my schedule for this term and the next two terms, making several pro/con lists and thinking WAY TOO MUCH on the subject. Does it make me a nerd that I have decided to buy the health econ book to teach myself the material regardless of the decision? My course director at our course meeting on Friday, after many of my course mates and I turned in our class selection form, basically told us to take the extended class. That made me feel good, especially after many students scrambled to change their class choices. I'm happy with my decision so far. Hopefully I didn't cheat myself out of an opportunity to better understand public health and the intricacies that make interventions within it good (or not)! I'm not looking forward choosing classes to Terms 2 and 3, in which we can only make a single choice for a class in each module (modules C, D and E) from a list of about 5-8ish really interesting and pertinent courses to my degree and future.
Another event that made me feel great occurred on Friday. That was the day where we were able to meet our personal tutors. The tutor is the equivalent to our academic adviser. S/he helps us with any problems that we are having, academically or personally if need be, as well as help give us advice on making sound decisions on classes and summer projects. There was a chance that the tutor would not be there given that many of them are overseas doing research. However, I was able to meet and speak with mine. He is a French doctor who not only studied at the LSHTM, but who does work on HIV/AIDS (and STI co-infections) in sub-Saharan Africa (i.e. Tanzania!). His personality was great, too; he was extremely nice and seemed very committed to the School's students. It looks as if I will be well guided over the next year!
On Thursday, in addition to yesterday and today (Sat. & Sun.), there were no course functions. The free time gave me an opportunity to do some last-minute sightseeing before I will be bogged-down with coursework. Per the advice of one of my British classmates, I went to the [south-west] London borough of Richmond on Thursday. It felt as if it was a world away from the city. Richmond lies along the Thames (as does the city of London), so it had many boats and people along the river. However, unlike the city, the greenery and quaint houses/businesses along the river's edge made the area seem like one was in the country. It was brilliant. Everyone was outside because it was such a BEAUTIFUL day! The sun was actually shining. Although I enjoyed the down town area, the best part was the park (as per usual). It was HUGE. I walked in it for over an hour. There were even deer! I saw fawns, does and a large stag. They didn't seem to mind the passers-by. We were only about 100m away! I would have gotten better pictures, but my bloody camera's battery died.
My Saturday was devoted to more of the natural world--the Natural History Museum. It's a must-see here in London. The building is gorgeous, the exhibits are really informative and it's easy on the pocketbook because it's FREE like many of the museums here! I've been there before, but one could go back over and over again because there is so much there. Go if you ever have the chance!
And finally, today! The last day of my summer (it's only been about 5 months and one season later!). I went to the borough of Greenwich (south east London; it sounds like "grehn-itch"). Given that it's Europe, I had several choices of transportation to get out there: train, bus or boat. I chose the boat! That was a lovely experience in itself. You can see so much of the city. It's great. The ride took about an hour, but the sun was peeking out of the gloomy clouds at times and you could get awesome views of St. Paul's Cathedral and the City Hall (in the picture), in addition to the London Eye, Parliament, the Tower of London and the Tower Bridge. I was not bored for one minute! When I did arrive in Greenwich, I was able to see the Old Royal Naval College, the British Maritime Museum and the Royal Observatory. You may be wondering to yourself by now, "What's in Greenwich? Why go there? Wait, 'Greenwich' sounds familiar. Where do I know that name?" Well, you are RIGHT. I'm sure you've heard of "Greenwich Mean Time." Our modern time zones are based off of the city because the Prime Meridian, or 0 degrees longitude (0 0'00"), passes through the city and observatory. I was able to stand in two hemispheres at once! Hopefully I am as excited by my course materials as I was by simultaneously being in two different sections of the globe at once. I am sure I will be--I begin to find out tomorrow when classes start!
London rocks!
Choosing my classes was particularly hard this year. Alma was a small school, with a limited number of classes from which to choose for each term. There were a few classes that I would have liked to have taken but I didn't have time. I don't feel as if my education was discounted because of that, though. It feels a little different here. This term, "Term 1," allows us to take up to six modules and doesn't have many choices for electives. My course--Control of Infectious Diseases (CID)--has to take basic statistics, an epidemiology course, health economics and/or health policy/processes/power (HPPP) and a course on disease agents and their control. We could have chosen basic epidemiology, health economics and HPPP or extended epidemiology and either health economics or HPPP. I was so conflicted with what to choose. I have always been extremely interested in health policy (I designed my undergrad major around it), so I knew that I would be taking the policy course. However, the crux of my decision was whether or not to take the basic epi so I could take both the policy and econ, or to take the extended epi with just the policy course. Both epi and health economics are extremely important; epidemiology (the study of disease patterns in populations) is the foundation of public health, whereas health economics is crucial to be successful in creating good policy. I finally chose the extended epi and health policy after mapping out my schedule for this term and the next two terms, making several pro/con lists and thinking WAY TOO MUCH on the subject. Does it make me a nerd that I have decided to buy the health econ book to teach myself the material regardless of the decision? My course director at our course meeting on Friday, after many of my course mates and I turned in our class selection form, basically told us to take the extended class. That made me feel good, especially after many students scrambled to change their class choices. I'm happy with my decision so far. Hopefully I didn't cheat myself out of an opportunity to better understand public health and the intricacies that make interventions within it good (or not)! I'm not looking forward choosing classes to Terms 2 and 3, in which we can only make a single choice for a class in each module (modules C, D and E) from a list of about 5-8ish really interesting and pertinent courses to my degree and future.
Another event that made me feel great occurred on Friday. That was the day where we were able to meet our personal tutors. The tutor is the equivalent to our academic adviser. S/he helps us with any problems that we are having, academically or personally if need be, as well as help give us advice on making sound decisions on classes and summer projects. There was a chance that the tutor would not be there given that many of them are overseas doing research. However, I was able to meet and speak with mine. He is a French doctor who not only studied at the LSHTM, but who does work on HIV/AIDS (and STI co-infections) in sub-Saharan Africa (i.e. Tanzania!). His personality was great, too; he was extremely nice and seemed very committed to the School's students. It looks as if I will be well guided over the next year!
On Thursday, in addition to yesterday and today (Sat. & Sun.), there were no course functions. The free time gave me an opportunity to do some last-minute sightseeing before I will be bogged-down with coursework. Per the advice of one of my British classmates, I went to the [south-west] London borough of Richmond on Thursday. It felt as if it was a world away from the city. Richmond lies along the Thames (as does the city of London), so it had many boats and people along the river. However, unlike the city, the greenery and quaint houses/businesses along the river's edge made the area seem like one was in the country. It was brilliant. Everyone was outside because it was such a BEAUTIFUL day! The sun was actually shining. Although I enjoyed the down town area, the best part was the park (as per usual). It was HUGE. I walked in it for over an hour. There were even deer! I saw fawns, does and a large stag. They didn't seem to mind the passers-by. We were only about 100m away! I would have gotten better pictures, but my bloody camera's battery died.
My Saturday was devoted to more of the natural world--the Natural History Museum. It's a must-see here in London. The building is gorgeous, the exhibits are really informative and it's easy on the pocketbook because it's FREE like many of the museums here! I've been there before, but one could go back over and over again because there is so much there. Go if you ever have the chance!
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Orientation Week
It's about time! This week is "Week 0", or "Fresher's Week". All orientation events are occurring around the University of London's schools, which are scattered around the the Bloomsbury area here in West London. Everyone, approximately 90,000 students, has been scrambling to attend all of the different welcome sessions of his or her uni and of the whole system. This includes me! Yesterday was the first day of orientation. My course only had to attend the School's welcome session in the morning and be back to the hall for registration at 2pm. This consisted of turning in one's registration form and other necessary documents, as well as get a photograph for the coveted student ID. More events, like the course lunch time meeting, occurred today and will take place for the rest of the week.
Unlike in the US where registration for your school occurs on one day or over the internet, it apparently takes about a week here; only one or two required events take place throughout the day. For instance, my course met for the first time together as a course today to have a lunchtime meeting. We discussed our course handbook, the "bible" for the year. It outlines the logistics of the course: important dates of the year, examination procedures, class descriptions, etc. Everything seems a bit overwhelming right now, but will surely be manageable once the classes begin next week. It's like meeting new people and making new friends. At first, you are nervous and hope that at least one person likes you. However, the majority of people are extremely nice and are eager to make friends because they are in the same situation. It may help that all of the social events are located at the pub (a UK thing?).
Although the long orientation week isn't stressful, I'd just assume start classes. London is a great city and there is so much to do, but I need school. Five months have passed since I've sat in a classroom and have had the typical student obligations of studying, sitting exams and LEARNING!!!! Some things apparently never change. I am still such a nerd. I am still stressing over which courses I should take and what my schedule is going to look like (it's going to be extremely hard in the upcoming terms where there is the possibility of only choosing ONE class out of the 5ish that are available per module slot). I am still thinking about taking on extracurricular work [to be a course representative (!!!?????)]. I have only to wait until Monday when all everything is finalised to start becoming more comfortable with my life in London as a student!
Unlike in the US where registration for your school occurs on one day or over the internet, it apparently takes about a week here; only one or two required events take place throughout the day. For instance, my course met for the first time together as a course today to have a lunchtime meeting. We discussed our course handbook, the "bible" for the year. It outlines the logistics of the course: important dates of the year, examination procedures, class descriptions, etc. Everything seems a bit overwhelming right now, but will surely be manageable once the classes begin next week. It's like meeting new people and making new friends. At first, you are nervous and hope that at least one person likes you. However, the majority of people are extremely nice and are eager to make friends because they are in the same situation. It may help that all of the social events are located at the pub (a UK thing?).
Although the long orientation week isn't stressful, I'd just assume start classes. London is a great city and there is so much to do, but I need school. Five months have passed since I've sat in a classroom and have had the typical student obligations of studying, sitting exams and LEARNING!!!! Some things apparently never change. I am still such a nerd. I am still stressing over which courses I should take and what my schedule is going to look like (it's going to be extremely hard in the upcoming terms where there is the possibility of only choosing ONE class out of the 5ish that are available per module slot). I am still thinking about taking on extracurricular work [to be a course representative (!!!?????)]. I have only to wait until Monday when all everything is finalised to start becoming more comfortable with my life in London as a student!
Saturday, September 26, 2009
My First Encounter with the LSHTM
The "International Students' Welcome", an optional orientation geared toward giving a better understanding of living and studying in London to the large international student population of the School, occurred yesterday and today. It was interesting. The information provided gave me a new, more practical outlook of the city. The tourist mind-set shifted to survival mode: How can I set up a bank account? What type of Tube pass do I need? Where can I get a good bite to eat and get the supplies necessary to live? No longer are the thoughts of "how can I cram in as many sights in my time here" or "which museum MUST I see in this limited amount of time". They may still exist because I'm only here for a year, but they have been demoted to the status of "less important concerns". Although the talks were informative, the School itself and its students (well, some of them) were even more enlightening.
The main building of the LSHTM is surprisingly modern. The facade, like many buildings here in London, is of old gray stone. The bronze fixtures around the windows and doorways are delightfully that of disease vectors: rats, ticks, mosquitoes, etc. The inside was a mix of new and old architecture and construction. A modern lecture theatre, the Dr. John Snow Theatre (the physician of historical London who discovered that the wells in Soho were contaminated [with cholera] and were, thus, the source of the peoples' sickness), was a short climb from the contemporary wood-floored and glass-lined closed-in courtyard. Other parts of the building retained their vintage look, with white marble floors and wooden doors. I am sure that I will be able to get a better impression of the LSHTM, as well as provide greater details of the School, as I become deeply acquainted with its facilities during my studies over the next year. In all, I honestly liked it. The wonderful smell of learning (a.k.a. books) was everywhere and the building seems like it will be navigable [after many hours of study and using a floor plan like an extension of my arm, haha], unlike my residence hall in which there are many hallways and random rooms used for an assortment of gatherings. The pub in the basement at which our social events of the ISW were held was a lovely surprise, too! How wonderfully British.
One of the reasons why I chose to study at the LSHTM was its reputation for being an internationally-focused school with many international students. Everyone was so friendly and appeared ready to make friends and begin studying. It was great being among people with so many different outlooks on life, cultures and life experiences. However, everyone had a common bond--the love of creating and maintaining a high quality standard of health across the globe. I feel like I'm at Model UN Conference where everyone likes and is interested in international affairs. This is better, though. EVERYONE loves not just issues of global importance, but international health. Many students had been working for some time before deciding to come to London for study. It seemed as if everyone was a physician coming back to school for a supplemental eduction (this is definitely an overstatement because I met a lot of health practitioners of all professions and some people straight out of undergrad). This has really made me realise that it may be a good decision to go to medical school. Regardless of my thoughts about going back to MI for med school after the year @ the LSHTM, I feel like a "fresher" (a "freshman") at school in the sense that everyone has had extremely meaningful experiences in [global] health care, whereas I don't. It's a bit intimidating, but yet comforting. Hopefully I will be able to learn a substantial amount from my new colleagues. I'm sure that I will. That's another reason why I'm here. I need more clarification on exactly what is my future role in global heath. I am confident that the experiences in London both while in the classroom and out of it, in addition to my experiences with my student peers, will point me in the right direction.
Orientation is next week, with classes commencing the following week. I can feel that this is going to be a WONDERFUL experience. London rocks.
The main building of the LSHTM is surprisingly modern. The facade, like many buildings here in London, is of old gray stone. The bronze fixtures around the windows and doorways are delightfully that of disease vectors: rats, ticks, mosquitoes, etc. The inside was a mix of new and old architecture and construction. A modern lecture theatre, the Dr. John Snow Theatre (the physician of historical London who discovered that the wells in Soho were contaminated [with cholera] and were, thus, the source of the peoples' sickness), was a short climb from the contemporary wood-floored and glass-lined closed-in courtyard. Other parts of the building retained their vintage look, with white marble floors and wooden doors. I am sure that I will be able to get a better impression of the LSHTM, as well as provide greater details of the School, as I become deeply acquainted with its facilities during my studies over the next year. In all, I honestly liked it. The wonderful smell of learning (a.k.a. books) was everywhere and the building seems like it will be navigable [after many hours of study and using a floor plan like an extension of my arm, haha], unlike my residence hall in which there are many hallways and random rooms used for an assortment of gatherings. The pub in the basement at which our social events of the ISW were held was a lovely surprise, too! How wonderfully British.
One of the reasons why I chose to study at the LSHTM was its reputation for being an internationally-focused school with many international students. Everyone was so friendly and appeared ready to make friends and begin studying. It was great being among people with so many different outlooks on life, cultures and life experiences. However, everyone had a common bond--the love of creating and maintaining a high quality standard of health across the globe. I feel like I'm at Model UN Conference where everyone likes and is interested in international affairs. This is better, though. EVERYONE loves not just issues of global importance, but international health. Many students had been working for some time before deciding to come to London for study. It seemed as if everyone was a physician coming back to school for a supplemental eduction (this is definitely an overstatement because I met a lot of health practitioners of all professions and some people straight out of undergrad). This has really made me realise that it may be a good decision to go to medical school. Regardless of my thoughts about going back to MI for med school after the year @ the LSHTM, I feel like a "fresher" (a "freshman") at school in the sense that everyone has had extremely meaningful experiences in [global] health care, whereas I don't. It's a bit intimidating, but yet comforting. Hopefully I will be able to learn a substantial amount from my new colleagues. I'm sure that I will. That's another reason why I'm here. I need more clarification on exactly what is my future role in global heath. I am confident that the experiences in London both while in the classroom and out of it, in addition to my experiences with my student peers, will point me in the right direction.
Orientation is next week, with classes commencing the following week. I can feel that this is going to be a WONDERFUL experience. London rocks.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Landed in London
Day 1 of 365 is now complete. I'd have to say that it was a success.
The flight over here was not eventful; it was just long and uncomfortable. Overnight flights to Europe are all the same--virtually sleepless and cramped. I had no time to be sleepy when I arrived in Europe, though. I entered the UK via Copenhagen, Denmark after flying from Saginaw through Chicago. Hooray for backtracking...twice! It was then a chore trying to drag two, 50 lb. bags into and off of the crowded Tube once I did land. My workout was complete 1.5 hours later when I arrived to my place of residence for the next year, Connaught Hall (pictured below; the building on the right).
Once I got my room assignment and got up to it, I immediately threw all of my stuff to the ground and hopped onto my bed for a rest. Unpacking is still on my 'to do' list, as you can see from the photos. The room is a bit small, but it's Europe so everything is compact. I think it will work out rather well. I'm happy.
Oh, and if you'd like it, my address is:
Drew Emge
Connaught Hall, Room 233
36-45 Tavistock Square
London WC1H 9EX
United Kingdom
Care packages are welcome. Haha.
Enough complaining, though! Today I was able to sleep in (for a surprising 12 hours! yikes!) and I started to explore and re-acquaint myself with London. I walked from my room to Hyde Park, which is in the western/south western part of the city. It took me longer than usual because I stopped in Tesco (the UK's version of 7-11) for some room supplies and mobile phone stores. My new number is 011 44 (0)7564 055677. That's INCLUDING the international access number and UK country code, so you'll dial that number to "ring me" from the US (you will probably have to take out the zero that's in parentheses). If you have any questions or issues, let me know!!!!
Hyde Park was great. This was the first time that I have been there. I walked around for about 2 hours (it's a BIG park). The highlight was the Serpentine (a river-like lake), Round Pond and Prince Albert Memorial. There were so many geese, ducks and swans in the water. They were chasing people around the grass to try to get food. Once I escaped from the birds, I was able to get a close-up look of the Prince Albert Memorial. That was AWESOME! The monument was huge. It looked like an open cathedral, with a golden statue under the main tower. Surrounding the main statue and tower were ornately-carved sculptures of peoples and animals representing the "continents" (America, Africa, Asia, etc.). The details of the carvings were so life-like. The last time that I saw the monument was in a quickly moving tour bus. Yuck. I suggest the method of viewing it up-close.
Well, that's all for now. Sorry that this was such a long post, folks. I'll try to keep them shorter next time. Tomorrow is the International Students Welcome @ the LSHTM. I will try to practice making a short post about it (if it is post-worthy...). Stay tuned for upcoming additions!
The flight over here was not eventful; it was just long and uncomfortable. Overnight flights to Europe are all the same--virtually sleepless and cramped. I had no time to be sleepy when I arrived in Europe, though. I entered the UK via Copenhagen, Denmark after flying from Saginaw through Chicago. Hooray for backtracking...twice! It was then a chore trying to drag two, 50 lb. bags into and off of the crowded Tube once I did land. My workout was complete 1.5 hours later when I arrived to my place of residence for the next year, Connaught Hall (pictured below; the building on the right).
Once I got my room assignment and got up to it, I immediately threw all of my stuff to the ground and hopped onto my bed for a rest. Unpacking is still on my 'to do' list, as you can see from the photos. The room is a bit small, but it's Europe so everything is compact. I think it will work out rather well. I'm happy.Oh, and if you'd like it, my address is:
Drew Emge
Connaught Hall, Room 233
36-45 Tavistock Square
London WC1H 9EX
United Kingdom
Care packages are welcome. Haha.
Enough complaining, though! Today I was able to sleep in (for a surprising 12 hours! yikes!) and I started to explore and re-acquaint myself with London. I walked from my room to Hyde Park, which is in the western/south western part of the city. It took me longer than usual because I stopped in Tesco (the UK's version of 7-11) for some room supplies and mobile phone stores. My new number is 011 44 (0)7564 055677. That's INCLUDING the international access number and UK country code, so you'll dial that number to "ring me" from the US (you will probably have to take out the zero that's in parentheses). If you have any questions or issues, let me know!!!!
Hyde Park was great. This was the first time that I have been there. I walked around for about 2 hours (it's a BIG park). The highlight was the Serpentine (a river-like lake), Round Pond and Prince Albert Memorial. There were so many geese, ducks and swans in the water. They were chasing people around the grass to try to get food. Once I escaped from the birds, I was able to get a close-up look of the Prince Albert Memorial. That was AWESOME! The monument was huge. It looked like an open cathedral, with a golden statue under the main tower. Surrounding the main statue and tower were ornately-carved sculptures of peoples and animals representing the "continents" (America, Africa, Asia, etc.). The details of the carvings were so life-like. The last time that I saw the monument was in a quickly moving tour bus. Yuck. I suggest the method of viewing it up-close.
Well, that's all for now. Sorry that this was such a long post, folks. I'll try to keep them shorter next time. Tomorrow is the International Students Welcome @ the LSHTM. I will try to practice making a short post about it (if it is post-worthy...). Stay tuned for upcoming additions!
Monday, September 14, 2009
One Week 'til Blast-off
I can't believe that I only have one week left to remain here in the US! It seems like the summer has just melted away (albeit the low melting point of this season). I find myself really cherishing the time that I am spending with my friends and family before I go. Why do deadlines alter the way that we look at life? For instance, it appears as if the fleeting hours before the due date of a big project or exam are extremely stressful and the last few weeks and days when I was at Alma were some of the most enjoyable that I have ever had. Maybe I am taking all of my good friends too literally? According to them, I'm not going to come back once I'm over in Europe. Lol. Do they know something that I do not yet know? I find this amusing, but I guess that I am still getting a bit scared that I won't see people for longer than the year to which I have committed. However, grandparents and other immediate family rest assured, I still would like to and plan to go to medical school at Michigan State's College of Human Medicine with the entering class of 2010.
When all is "said-and-done", despite the nervous anticipation, I am sooooooooo EXCITED to be beginning this new adventure. I look forward to these final, sweet State-side moments!
When all is "said-and-done", despite the nervous anticipation, I am sooooooooo EXCITED to be beginning this new adventure. I look forward to these final, sweet State-side moments!
Wednesday, September 09, 2009
The Countdown
For those of you who are curious, here is a look at my time left in the US as my departure date (21 September) looms ever closer.
09.09.09-11.09.09: Tawas City
11.09.09-13.09.09: Detroit
13.09.09-18.09.09: Bay City
19.09.09: Lansing
21.09.09-Aug/Sept 2010: LONDON
I would like to see as many people as possible before I go for the entire year, so please let me know if you'd like to get together!
09.09.09-11.09.09: Tawas City
11.09.09-13.09.09: Detroit
13.09.09-18.09.09: Bay City
19.09.09: Lansing
21.09.09-Aug/Sept 2010: LONDON
I would like to see as many people as possible before I go for the entire year, so please let me know if you'd like to get together!
Setting-up the Blog
Friends and family:
Per the suggestion of a family member this past weekend, I have decided to start a blog about my adventures in London over the upcoming year. Hopefully this will be easier than remembering to send out a monthly email, or something similar, to my closest friends and family members. I don't want to appear to be trite in copying my friends who are blogging about their studies and other experiences abroad, but I figured that this would be the easiest way to keep in touch (I like to think of it as emulating a wise decision, haha). Please be patient as I try to remember to update this thing regularly, as I am new to blogging. I welcome your suggestions on the content that I should/could include!
Enjoy!
Drew
Per the suggestion of a family member this past weekend, I have decided to start a blog about my adventures in London over the upcoming year. Hopefully this will be easier than remembering to send out a monthly email, or something similar, to my closest friends and family members. I don't want to appear to be trite in copying my friends who are blogging about their studies and other experiences abroad, but I figured that this would be the easiest way to keep in touch (I like to think of it as emulating a wise decision, haha). Please be patient as I try to remember to update this thing regularly, as I am new to blogging. I welcome your suggestions on the content that I should/could include!
Enjoy!
Drew
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