Stumbling through Orientation Week
Honestly, stumbling might be putting it a nice way! Most of the younger generation here in Debrecen understands English very well, but out in the town is a whole different story.
I spent the first couple days here myself which was nice so that I could get into a sleep schedule, but I was also trying to do most things by myself which was an adjustment. I have walked around campus and have a pretty good idea as to where my classes will be and where I can find food. I visited a local grocery store right next campus and found some very interesting American products mixed in with local brands. The only American grocery store they have here is ALDI - so I went and did some grocery shopping there too.
I have been busy trying to get settled, but I have been told I will be moving rooms once the people in mine leave (tbd but should be on Monday). I visited with my advisor here to learn a few more things and make a checklist of what I need to get done this week and get started on my residence permit. I am registered in: Hungarian American Relations, Intro to Hungarian Culture, Hungarian Language, and American Literature (I asked Jaeda if this was cheating, and she said no). These classes are once a week for 2 hours and all scheduled between Monday and Thursday so that I have time to travel!
I have two buddies here on campus that are locals that I have been able to connect with and ask questions - they have been super helpful. I did get a roommate her name is Flora and she is from Bulgaria. We are hitting it off great and we both have similar places that we want to see while we are in school, and I am the first American she has met. We went out and explored the city center together on Saturday! We probably walked 5 miles around the city, sat at a coffee shop and visited for a couple of hours, and then hopped on the tram to get back to the University. The only American restaurants in town are KFC (which I have learned is a popular place for Bulgarians), Starbucks, and McDonalds. I will have to go and see how they compare to the stuff back home!
I am not going to sugar coat it - this week has been difficult. I called home or my sisters quite a bit during those first couple of days because I was so unsure of myself (which is a rather new occurrence for me). It definitely helps now that I have a friend, but thanks to some smart packing on my end (I do still have some confidence) I packed my Bible for times where I was needing some advice. On top of writing this blog I have also been keep 2 journals:
My pretty one from Gabby highlights my travels and new experiences I have my plane tickets, bus tickets, receipts, etc.
My reflection journal is nothing to crazy - but I have been using it as a prayer journal as well
This next week will have a lot more activities for me to meet people and build on my semi-lacking confidence. Stay tuned!
