Heading to Lancaster

Tuesday morning, I said goodbye to London. We hopped on a train and took the three hour ride to Lancaster. We all had so much luggage that it was difficult to maneuver our way in the train. Luckily, it was not crowded so we just put our luggage in the empty seats.

Our train ride was filled with beautiful scenery. We even made a stop in Warrington, which was really awesome. Can't wait to visit sometime soon!

When the train finally arrived in Lancaster, it was a bit rainy and chilly. Despite the poor weather, I still found Lancaster to be beautiful. The town is really quaint, like something out of a storybook. The architecture is fantastic. The whole look of the town is just very different from the United States.

Once I made it to campus, I was finally able to unpack all of the luggage I had been hauling around. I really love my room. If it wasn't so messy at the moment (I'll clean it, I swear!), I would take a picture. Perhaps next post. :) There's a nice bed, desk, coat hangers, bulletin boards, closet, and plenty of storage. I share a kitchen with 11 other people. I share a bathroom with two other people.

My first night on campus, there was a welcome dinner for all study abroad students. I met people from Norway, Australia, New Zealand, China, and Spain. It was really interesting to hear the perspectives of other students. The girl I met from Australia was complaining about how cold she was. On the other hand, the girl from Norway was saying how warm it was. I also noticed that many students were seeking out people from their same countries. I can understand that; it is comforting to know that someone can identify with the differences you are experiencing.

I'm trying to explore the area. I've been into town a few times so far. It's about a 10-15 minute bus ride from campus. My favorite part of taking the bus is seeing all of the scenery. You'll be riding along and see a field of sheep.

You can't really see it, but there are sheep in the back of that field.

There is this beautiful area near my flat that I keep admiring. I kept telling myself I would go look more closely when I had time. Finally, on Saturday, I was walking back from the bus stop and I couldn't wait any longer. The sun was so bright, and it just looked so astonishing. With bags from my shopping trip, I trudged my way to this area behind one of the campus buildings. My camera gives no justice to how amazing it was.

The more I explore, the more differences I discover. I think one of the most interesting things I've noticed is how much drinking is a part of the British culture. There are nine bars on campus. Each bar has its own theme/personality. In the student stores, alcohol is available for purchase. I couldn't help but think of how different it is from back home. Yes, drinking is a part of the culture. But nine bars on a college campus? No way. Back in the day, Stockton had a bar. It no longer exists.

I'm still trying to get used to the money. I'm getting better! I'm also trying to get into the habit of saying "cheers" as opposed to "thanks". Whenever I say "cheers", I get this stupid smile on my face as though I'm proud of myself. They probably think I'm mocking them. :(

I've been having a really nice time. Everyone seems to be really friendly. Don't worry! There are still things I miss about home. :)

Class starts tomorrow. I'm a bit nervous, because I've heard it's such a different system from what I'm used to. Wish me luck?