Day 13

17.9.18

Well, today was the first day of classes. I am happy to be back in the classroom finally. It feels like it has been such a long time. I am a little out of sorts. My first class was only 2 hours long, but it felt so long. I am sure once we get into the swing of things I will be fine.

I am a little worried about classes because when it comes to an understanding of the tutors, it can be tough. Sometimes it is due to such a thick accent, but they also have a whole other way of talking that sometimes goes over my head.

For example, I had three people today ask if I was okay. Usually, back home when someone says 'you okay?', it means you either look upset or something bad happened. Over here it is a greeting along the same lines as 'how are you?' Now imagine being in the classroom when I didn't get a common greeting...I think with my adjustments I will be fine this term.

The English place a lot on grades and GPAs, especially when it comes to getting a job after school. Back home, we only care if you pass. I like that was better because, if you are like me, grades don't reflect intelligence. I don't do well in the classroom at times. My GPA is okay, but I know it could be better. There are classes I have had to take that have literally nothing to do with my major, but I go to a liberal arts school, so I have to make them. How does taking a theology class or environmental class help me in the business world? It gives me a well-rounded education but does nothing for my degree. I am also fighting a pretty severe learning disability which sets me behind most of my peers. Now, while I do okay in the classroom, I kick ass in a workplace setting.

I feel better about being over here as well. I think it was time but also Jenny, the Wellbeing person in charge of adjustments and a local, tell me that Central London is a whole different ballgame. I still am finding a, but I think I need more time.

I also feel a little restless. I get like this at times, and I think I need to go off exploring again. I have the free time. I was going to take four classes over here, but I think I am only going to do three. There are only four classes I can take at St. Marys that will transfer back to Aquinas, and two of those classes clashed with one another. I like the schedule I have right now with a morning class on Monday, a late afternoon class on Thursday and a morning class on Friday. I have been going hardback at Aquinas for the last four semesters, so I went a more relaxed term over her and the time to explore. Now I have to find someone to join me.

I would like to make some more friends. I enjoy hanging out with the other AQ students, but I want to meet other people as well. I am not sure how or where to do that. Maybe something will happen this week.