Orientation

The day started well...I was in the right place at the right time and met all other International students participating in the program this summer.  There are 6 from University of Michigan, 3 others from NCSU, 1 from Kentucky and 1 from UCLA.  Out of the 12 of us, I am the only female (no big surprise).  We began with an Orientation about our apartments, what is what, how to recycle and dispose of trash (very crucial), who to contact, etc.

We then traveled by subway with Reiko Furuya, our main NUSIP contact, to Nagoya University.  There we met the other professors and faculty assisting with the summer program, the Associate Dean, and the Nagoya University Students.  There are 8 Students currently studying at NU who are participating (and I'm glad to say that two are female).  Many of these students are also from outside of Japan.  Our group ranges from Juniors to Graduate Students seeking Masters and PHDs.  

Following Orientation, we were invited to a Welcome Party!  This was a wonderful opportunity to chat with other members of the program and the faculty while enjoying an INCREDIBLE traditional Japanese buffet!  We were served several types of sushi and cooked fish, pork, soups and fruit bowls. Throughout the meal they continued to bring more new dishes.  All were delicious!

We then were given the opportunity to walk off some of this meal. We broke into groups and the NU students gave us a tour around campus. The campus is very large (20,000 students) and a busy place.  At one point we commented on the greenery.  I suggested "we only have greenery areas similar to this at Zoos in the states". Seiji told us that the Nagoya Zoo was actually right next to campus (1 point for Jenna).  I will definitely visit the Zoo although he told us that in Japan it is more for children.

The weather is muggy, the rain is off and on, but has only been light.  It got very warm during the middle of the day and we were all sweaty zombies by the end of a long first day.  We returned to our apartments around 5.  I've taken some time to organize my files and will retire early for the evening.  Although we're visiting during rainy season, this is still going to be an Amazing trip...they have so much planned for us...and all the students seem cool and kind!