Day 3: First day of school

For the first day of class, today was pretty mundane. While the topic was pretty intriguing, the weather made everything seem fairly standard. We visited the University for the first time, and toured the place before learning about European integration and the pros/cons of regional agreements messing with the WTO. Again, a fairly interesting subject, particularly given my minimal understanding of business, but given the chilly, rainy weather, and the jet-lag, everything was blah during the day. The rest of the trip is supposed to have fairer skies, which should make things more fun.

Following classes, we returned to the hotel before going to the Irish pub around 10. Shortly before 10 we met a US diplomat on a whim, as he was returning to his room in the hotel. He pretended to be a native German speaker and tricked me into speaking German with him before he revealed himself by showing us his vast array of passports and drivers licences. After we thanked him for his military service, everyone in the group went out together, which was really nice, it was a good way to chat everyone up outside of our group project that went horribly well. I developed a powerpoint for the presentation, which was a little over the top from the other groups' perspective. Everything went fine, and we now have a running joke that I'll turn everything into a powerpoint.

The pub itself was a great time as most of us were behind the bar or just being merry. A photo is posted below. Oddly enough, the only money I have spent thus far has been on beer, as the meals have been included. The different beers have all tasted pretty good, but when conversing within the group about beverages here, it is important to reflect on the carbonated water, as most people can't get past the fact that everything is "sparkling" in nature. Sparkling apple juice is great, but there comes a point when you just want regular tap water to feel refreshed.

Tomorrow we head to Frankfurt to visit the Central Bank, and tour the city.

WHU is the University we are studying at. This is the Burgplatz. If the University had a Diag, this would be it.

New friends enjoying the local spirits.