Blog FAQs:
Alright so some people have asked me about this blog and updating / why this is updated late yada yada.
1. Why didn't you update when you were in Cambridge?
I stated this earlier but quite honestly, I got caught up in studying abroad and experiencing everything that I ended up forgetting despite the fact that I wrote many notes.
2. Will you update regularly?
Um I think I'll try updating once or twice every 2 weeks. (I will try to write more though if I have time.) I'm trying to write my blogs in an informative yet personal method because most blogs I've read are normally just personal; however, this does take a while. I want to make sure that the info on my blog can become a resource for anyone who intends to study abroad, yet show my personal journey. My last blog (Caledonia and the north part 1) took a total of 5 hours to update and write.
2.5
Doesn't it change when you write abroad vs now?
Well yes and no. Luckily I did write a lot of notes in England and I intend to write in the style as if I first experienced it. Afterall this is "Unknown girl in England"....I think it's appropriate to write the way I first experienced it; however, my memory is not perfectly clear so sometimes i will include future thoughts. I'm writing based on notes that I wrote.
3. When do you update?
I try to update on Fridays and weekends; however, I may finish the blog the latest on Wednesdays.
4. Will there be posts on "how expensive study abroad is?"
Yes there will be one coming soon.
5. Any other study abroad blogging?
Yes, expect a Scotland Parliament blog soon and I will provide the link later. This will also include resources on scholarships, interning abroad etc.
6. Got any other questions?
Feel free to leave a comment!
Cheers!
-Tina Lin
Wednesday, October 23, 2013
Wednesday, October 16, 2013
July 5th - Caledonia and the North!
In my title I mention Caledonia. For those whom are curious, Caledonia is another name for Scotland. According to Wikipedia, "Caledonia is a historical description of Northern Britain during the Roman Era pr as a romantic or poetic name for Scotland as a whole." (yes Romes at some point went into the UK and did what they did best: conquer.) Anyways, I may refer to Scotland as Caledonia in my blog because Caledonia DOES sound much more romantic than Scotland, so hopefully this blog isn't too confusing.
Weather wise: cloudy with a hint of drizzle.
Morning involved hectic rushing to eat breakfast, double check that I packed everything, and get all of my luggage (2 totem bags and a backpack) to the back of King's College all before 9AM. Heavy luggage + short girl walking for .4 miles still = tiring. It doesn't help that I'm still weary from walking everywhere from prior days.
Anyways after that, I went to find bus 3 and to my relief and surprise I found out that Jason was on the same bus as me so he sat next to me.
Because there are over 200 students, there are 8-9 buses. Since 200 + students is quite a lot of students, PKP has 2 different routes for Scotland. One route involves stopping by and seeing Fountain Abbey today before arriving at Scotland, and stopping by Richmond when coming back. The other route is the exact opposite, and I was in this latter.
Like many travelers, I was so excited that I got caught up trying to document everything. Case and point? I tried to get a picture of grassy scenery.
One thing I've noticed is that when you're traveling in England via bus, most of the routes don't involve seeing ugly freeways like those in America. Instead you're surrounded by gorgeous green trees and grassy green pastures.
Pit stops! There will always be someone whom wants to use the latrine or loo, so yes there were many pit stops. At the pit stops there are always some fast food restaurants, and a mini market (i.e. Tesco or Sainsburry).
Okay, so later we finally arrived at Richmond. Jason and I passed by a Fish and Chips specialty store, and decided to go see Richmond Castle first before getting their awesome Fish and Chips!
It's been a long time since I saw a castle, so my first impression when I saw the castle was OH MY GOD I'M IN A MEDIEVAL FAIRYTALE! Seriously, Richmond Castle is HUGE and breathtakingly stunning. For those whom are picturing this, imagine a gigantic stone castle surrounded by a stone fortress overlooking cluttered houses in streets paved in cobblestone. Luckily PKP students didn't have to pay for the 5 pound admission to enter the castle.
(next paragraph about the castle can be completely ignored if you don't like exaggerated purple prose and fantasy stories.)
In the castle, we ran into Katharine and proceeded to conquer the mighty castle!- I mean explore. Explore the castle. Our adventures began by entering the grassy green courtyard......through tiny stone archways...pass the narrow walls around the corner what did we spy? Treasure? The Holy grail? No- just an enclosed dead end. And turn back we did, and climbed stairs....and as our heroes journeyed to the top they landed in the attic where they found the book: A history of conquerors and weaponry past. Once they mastered the skills they could, our heroes carried on till they reached the top. There they saw the city from afar with its magnificent view! And there they stopped- realizing a journey began anew.
After the epic journey, I ended up falling asleep in the bus till we reached University of Edinburgh. After settling in, I proceeded to get dinner with my friends and discuss what we were going to do etc. At 7 o'clock, I met up with a few friends and PKP staff, walked down the hills and streets and began exploring Edinburgh. We went to a pub called The Blind Poet and my friend Sesenu bought a pitcher of Pimm's Punch. Oh my god. Best alcoholic drink ever. We walked around the cities and later some of us opted out to get some sleep, while me, Katharine, Jason and John ended up exploring Edinburgh a little bit longer.
Anyways, I'm not a huge fan of horror, and was terrified of going on a haunted night tour of Edinburgh; however, since my friends really wanted to go I ended up going, and John paid 10-15 pounds for my experience. Thanks John! At least it comes with a mixed vodka cocktail? Anyways the tour guide and the walking tour was eerie and creepy. We entered catacombs underground, a museum of torture weapons, and other places (The Mercat Cross - where announcements were read and people were publicly shamed etc.) At some point of the tour the tourguide told us if we were paranoid and superstitious we could spit on some stone as to avoid ghosts following us back....I freaked out so I ended up spitting on the stone. Gross, I know and Too much information!
So interesting facts I learned about dreary depressing Edinburgh:
1. If you were pregnant and did not notify the authorities you could be hung.
2. People all crowded together underground to attempt to escape authorities and the lack of sanitation seriously did not help.
3. The maiden...they're not referring to a young bonnie lassie (young pretty woman.) They're referring to an earlier form of a guillotine.
So after the tour we ended up going to a pub called the Banshee Labyrinth and getting our vodka drinks. Vodka and coke is actually pretty good. We danced to dubstep and heavy metal, and I ended up teaching Jason and Katharine how to do the Pandanggo Saw Ilaw (Filipino candle dance) hand movements with our glasses. After that we pub hopped, and walked in and out of a few clubs. As we walked back it we sang Journey's "Just a Small town girl" and Beatles's "Let it Be." By the time we got back it was wet and rainy on 4AM, July 6th. Wow what a first day, I'm so exhausted that I'm going to need a whole day week to recover from this.
Until next time, Cheers!
Tina
Weather wise: cloudy with a hint of drizzle.
Morning involved hectic rushing to eat breakfast, double check that I packed everything, and get all of my luggage (2 totem bags and a backpack) to the back of King's College all before 9AM. Heavy luggage + short girl walking for .4 miles still = tiring. It doesn't help that I'm still weary from walking everywhere from prior days.
Anyways after that, I went to find bus 3 and to my relief and surprise I found out that Jason was on the same bus as me so he sat next to me.
Because there are over 200 students, there are 8-9 buses. Since 200 + students is quite a lot of students, PKP has 2 different routes for Scotland. One route involves stopping by and seeing Fountain Abbey today before arriving at Scotland, and stopping by Richmond when coming back. The other route is the exact opposite, and I was in this latter.
Like many travelers, I was so excited that I got caught up trying to document everything. Case and point? I tried to get a picture of grassy scenery.
 |
| Ok bad photo but... It's soo luscious and green! |
Pit stops! There will always be someone whom wants to use the latrine or loo, so yes there were many pit stops. At the pit stops there are always some fast food restaurants, and a mini market (i.e. Tesco or Sainsburry).
 |
| Entrance with a bunch of PKPers. |
 |
| Bus seat buddies! |
It's been a long time since I saw a castle, so my first impression when I saw the castle was OH MY GOD I'M IN A MEDIEVAL FAIRYTALE! Seriously, Richmond Castle is HUGE and breathtakingly stunning. For those whom are picturing this, imagine a gigantic stone castle surrounded by a stone fortress overlooking cluttered houses in streets paved in cobblestone. Luckily PKP students didn't have to pay for the 5 pound admission to enter the castle.
(next paragraph about the castle can be completely ignored if you don't like exaggerated purple prose and fantasy stories.)
In the castle, we ran into Katharine and proceeded to conquer the mighty castle!- I mean explore. Explore the castle. Our adventures began by entering the grassy green courtyard......through tiny stone archways...pass the narrow walls around the corner what did we spy? Treasure? The Holy grail? No- just an enclosed dead end. And turn back we did, and climbed stairs....and as our heroes journeyed to the top they landed in the attic where they found the book: A history of conquerors and weaponry past. Once they mastered the skills they could, our heroes carried on till they reached the top. There they saw the city from afar with its magnificent view! And there they stopped- realizing a journey began anew.
 |
| Our heroes as they began their journey. |
 |
| Entrapped in tiny spaces and dead ends, slowly our heroine Tina begins to lose her mind. |
 |
| The skills they learned. |
 |
| Mind your head! Luckily our heroine Katharine is short enough to go through the archway without a problem. Jason on the other hand..... |
 | ||
| The magnificent view of Richmond our heroes saw from the top of Richmond Castle. |
 |
| Entrance to this awesome pub. |
 | |||
| Sesenu pouring Pimms Punch. |
 |
| US has Starbucks, Here in the UK they have a gigantic cup of Costa Express. |
Anyways, I'm not a huge fan of horror, and was terrified of going on a haunted night tour of Edinburgh; however, since my friends really wanted to go I ended up going, and John paid 10-15 pounds for my experience. Thanks John! At least it comes with a mixed vodka cocktail? Anyways the tour guide and the walking tour was eerie and creepy. We entered catacombs underground, a museum of torture weapons, and other places (The Mercat Cross - where announcements were read and people were publicly shamed etc.) At some point of the tour the tourguide told us if we were paranoid and superstitious we could spit on some stone as to avoid ghosts following us back....I freaked out so I ended up spitting on the stone. Gross, I know and Too much information!
So interesting facts I learned about dreary depressing Edinburgh:
1. If you were pregnant and did not notify the authorities you could be hung.
2. People all crowded together underground to attempt to escape authorities and the lack of sanitation seriously did not help.
3. The maiden...they're not referring to a young bonnie lassie (young pretty woman.) They're referring to an earlier form of a guillotine.
 |
| This is a maiden. |
Until next time, Cheers!
Tina
Friday, October 11, 2013
Packing! (What to bring on mini trips outside of Cambridge)
Alright so before I begin my post I thought I'd clarify a few things:
1. Someone asked me why I'm updating it now not at the moment. Honestly I did intend to update this blog but I was incredibly caught up with studying abroad that I did forget to update my blog; however, I did write little notes in a journal and have multiple pictures so hopefully this makes up for my forgetfulness.
Ok this post is aimed mainly for future PKPers; however, for those wondering what exactly do you pack for a 4 day trip to Edinburgh...
Here's my Checklist and tips.
Mini luggage. Oh my god I wished how badly I knew how convenient a mini luggage was before I left California. I had trouble fitting everything into 2 tote bags and a backpack.
Note: Make sure you leave room in your luggage for a souvenir or two from Edinburgh!
1. Hiking shoes (seriously...most of the events available involve hiking or walking to some degree.) Supposedly if you're not dressed appropriately for a hike you can't go so do have some kind of shoes for the LONG trek..
2. Rain coat or panchos. Or if you're like me Both! So a few weeks ago in the checklist of things to bring or consider it said raincoat. I'm paranoid, and when I heard that it's going to rain in Edinburgh my thought was to be super prepared.
3. Clothing you can change into (fresh laundry preferred) I haven't done laundry yet and it's almost been a week so I'm a bit worried and will probably do laundry soon.
- long jeans/ long pants in general because it'll be rainy and windy.
- something comfortable that doesn't restrict you for ceilidh dancing.
- socks + maybe another pair of shoes (like for showering or what not.)
- sweaters and hoodies.
- sleepwear and enough undergarments for the trip.
4. Camera + amazing places + capturing moments. Enough said.
5. Wallet, id, and Pounds to buy souvenirs etc.
6. The little "Edinburgh pocket map and guide" that's given in the welcoming packet.
7. Other necessities (soap, shampoo, conditioner, towels etc.)
Finally 8. Your excitement to Edinburgh.
Optional but useful:
1. laptop for homework if anyone has any... (warning wifi isn't free at University of Edinburgh.)
2. Journals for recording stories and memories.
Oh and final tip.
<- This.
If anyone has anything else to add to this list feel free to leave a comment, and I'll update whenever I can.
Until then, Cheers!
-Tina
1. Someone asked me why I'm updating it now not at the moment. Honestly I did intend to update this blog but I was incredibly caught up with studying abroad that I did forget to update my blog; however, I did write little notes in a journal and have multiple pictures so hopefully this makes up for my forgetfulness.
Ok this post is aimed mainly for future PKPers; however, for those wondering what exactly do you pack for a 4 day trip to Edinburgh...
Here's my Checklist and tips.
Mini luggage. Oh my god I wished how badly I knew how convenient a mini luggage was before I left California. I had trouble fitting everything into 2 tote bags and a backpack.
Note: Make sure you leave room in your luggage for a souvenir or two from Edinburgh!
1. Hiking shoes (seriously...most of the events available involve hiking or walking to some degree.) Supposedly if you're not dressed appropriately for a hike you can't go so do have some kind of shoes for the LONG trek..
2. Rain coat or panchos. Or if you're like me Both! So a few weeks ago in the checklist of things to bring or consider it said raincoat. I'm paranoid, and when I heard that it's going to rain in Edinburgh my thought was to be super prepared.
3. Clothing you can change into (fresh laundry preferred) I haven't done laundry yet and it's almost been a week so I'm a bit worried and will probably do laundry soon.
- long jeans/ long pants in general because it'll be rainy and windy.
- something comfortable that doesn't restrict you for ceilidh dancing.
- socks + maybe another pair of shoes (like for showering or what not.)
- sweaters and hoodies.
- sleepwear and enough undergarments for the trip.
4. Camera + amazing places + capturing moments. Enough said.
5. Wallet, id, and Pounds to buy souvenirs etc.
6. The little "Edinburgh pocket map and guide" that's given in the welcoming packet.
7. Other necessities (soap, shampoo, conditioner, towels etc.)
Finally 8. Your excitement to Edinburgh.
Optional but useful:
1. laptop for homework if anyone has any... (warning wifi isn't free at University of Edinburgh.)
2. Journals for recording stories and memories.
Oh and final tip.
<- This.If anyone has anything else to add to this list feel free to leave a comment, and I'll update whenever I can.
Until then, Cheers!
-Tina
Saturday, October 5, 2013
PKP Course Information and Education in Cambridge University
Classes and Courses
For those of you want to study abroad at PKP you may wonder: How do classes and courses work? What is unique about Cambridge University courses etc? Well I'm about to answer that right now so keep reading.
Courses: Normally in Cambridge University there are 3 terms: Michaelmas Term, Lent Term, and Easter Term. Each term is 8 weeks. Similarly, PKP is designed so that the overall programme is 8 weeks; however, in the program there are 3 modules: Module 1, Module 2, and Module 3.
Module 1 courses begin from the first Tuesday, and end on week 4 Friday.
Module 2 courses begin on week 5 Tuesday and end on week 8 Thursday.
Module 3 courses begin on the first Tuesday, and end on week 7 Friday.
(The only exception is Supervision. )
In the UC system, courses have discussions, similarly each module class has a seminar. The difference is the number of people. The maximum number I've seen in a class was 35 students. Holy cow. That's tiny. The seminars have at max 10 people per seminar. Wow. I never thought I'd actually see any class that small! To me, this makes communicating with professors one-on-one so much easier. Also yes there is a difference between Professors and Lecturers and you may have to refer to them by their titles.
Timing of your courses: Unlike UC courses which are set, so that MWF or T/TH you meet a certain times. These classes are not. Lectures take place for 75 minutes and you may have 2-3 lectures in any given week; however, they will be spaced at different times. Also pay attention to which seminar you're in, since 10 people / seminar means that here are seminars A, B, and C. For example sometimes I would wake up early to attend my Management and Business Ethics class at 9:00AM. Followed by a seminar at 10:25AM. The next day I would attend the same lecture at 2:00PM.
Additionally, in Cambridge University, the point of learning isn't to memorize, the point is to argue your point with theories you learn in class. Grading is broken down into something like this.
For my International management and business ethics Performance Evaluation
1. Business plan Team presentation and website (20%)
1 Individual Business Plan Report (2000 words) 25%
1 Final Exam: 45%
Participation, progress, and attendance: 10%
From what I've noticed in the syllabis, Participation, progress, and attendence is 10% so for those who don't speak up you do have to for your grades. 45% is based on Final exams. 15% maybe based on a midterm, and 35% maybe based on an essay. (note: this may differ depending on the class.)
Books: Some courses do require you to buy books, but in my courses I received a reader which contained the syllabus, readings, course information etc. That was super convenient! :)
Homework: a lot of reading. Honestly there is no "physical homework" (no online homework, worksheets etc) with an exception to papers; however, before you enter class, the professor does expect you to read the material assigned and may question you, so
Note: Some classes may include pre-arrival reading so yes please take
note of this: (luckily mine did not include a lot of pre-arrival
reading.)
Earlier I mentioned the term "Supervision." What exactly is supervision? Supervision is a one on one course (which you, the student work with a professor) on a research topic of your choice, and you present a research paper of I think 30 pages? You meet with the professor, and he/she advises you, reads over your rough drafts, questions you, etc. Supervision is one of the things that makes Cambridge educationally unique, and if you have the opportunity to do so, it does require a lot of work and commitment; however, all of my friends have told me that supervision was the best thing educationally that they've done. ( Even now I do regret not doing a supervision.)
Ok anyways hope this clarifies the education aspect.
Anyways, Cheers
Tina
For those of you want to study abroad at PKP you may wonder: How do classes and courses work? What is unique about Cambridge University courses etc? Well I'm about to answer that right now so keep reading.
Courses: Normally in Cambridge University there are 3 terms: Michaelmas Term, Lent Term, and Easter Term. Each term is 8 weeks. Similarly, PKP is designed so that the overall programme is 8 weeks; however, in the program there are 3 modules: Module 1, Module 2, and Module 3.
Module 1 courses begin from the first Tuesday, and end on week 4 Friday.
Module 2 courses begin on week 5 Tuesday and end on week 8 Thursday.
Module 3 courses begin on the first Tuesday, and end on week 7 Friday.
(The only exception is Supervision. )
In the UC system, courses have discussions, similarly each module class has a seminar. The difference is the number of people. The maximum number I've seen in a class was 35 students. Holy cow. That's tiny. The seminars have at max 10 people per seminar. Wow. I never thought I'd actually see any class that small! To me, this makes communicating with professors one-on-one so much easier. Also yes there is a difference between Professors and Lecturers and you may have to refer to them by their titles.
Timing of your courses: Unlike UC courses which are set, so that MWF or T/TH you meet a certain times. These classes are not. Lectures take place for 75 minutes and you may have 2-3 lectures in any given week; however, they will be spaced at different times. Also pay attention to which seminar you're in, since 10 people / seminar means that here are seminars A, B, and C. For example sometimes I would wake up early to attend my Management and Business Ethics class at 9:00AM. Followed by a seminar at 10:25AM. The next day I would attend the same lecture at 2:00PM.
Additionally, in Cambridge University, the point of learning isn't to memorize, the point is to argue your point with theories you learn in class. Grading is broken down into something like this.
For my International management and business ethics Performance Evaluation
1. Business plan Team presentation and website (20%)
1 Individual Business Plan Report (2000 words) 25%
1 Final Exam: 45%
Participation, progress, and attendance: 10%
From what I've noticed in the syllabis, Participation, progress, and attendence is 10% so for those who don't speak up you do have to for your grades. 45% is based on Final exams. 15% maybe based on a midterm, and 35% maybe based on an essay. (note: this may differ depending on the class.)
Books: Some courses do require you to buy books, but in my courses I received a reader which contained the syllabus, readings, course information etc. That was super convenient! :)
Homework: a lot of reading. Honestly there is no "physical homework" (no online homework, worksheets etc) with an exception to papers; however, before you enter class, the professor does expect you to read the material assigned and may question you, so
Note: Some classes may include pre-arrival reading so yes please take
note of this: (luckily mine did not include a lot of pre-arrival
reading.) Earlier I mentioned the term "Supervision." What exactly is supervision? Supervision is a one on one course (which you, the student work with a professor) on a research topic of your choice, and you present a research paper of I think 30 pages? You meet with the professor, and he/she advises you, reads over your rough drafts, questions you, etc. Supervision is one of the things that makes Cambridge educationally unique, and if you have the opportunity to do so, it does require a lot of work and commitment; however, all of my friends have told me that supervision was the best thing educationally that they've done. ( Even now I do regret not doing a supervision.)
Ok anyways hope this clarifies the education aspect.
Anyways, Cheers
Tina
July 3rd and 4th.
July 3rd, 2012
Weather wise: today there was random drizzling and rain. So I woke up in the morning and headed down to Pembroke Dining Hall at 9AM. I ended up eating sauteed mushrooms, English bacon (ham), and poached eggs. Yummy :). Afterwards I walked with some of my friends to CUS; however, coming back I got lost.
I ended up making a wrong turn at some point and ended up at Jesus College's back lawn. ok terrible pun: Jesus! University of Cambridge is HUGE.
Anyways, I then had to ask a porter which college I was at, and from there how do I get back to King's College, and for the first lecture I was 30 minutes late. That awkward feeling one gets when everyone in the room stares at you for walking in 30 minutes late into "The Marriage of Spirit and Matter Course."... it's just embarrassing. Anyways, this class was The professor, Thomas Newbolt proceeded to question me and speak about art theoretically. "What is art spiritually? Why is this course called "The Marriage of Spirit and Matter?" What is the act of painting or even the first strokes of a painting etc." 1 hour later he gave us paper and pencils then proceeded to tell us to draw a still life of a tea kettle and a cup. I'm a studio art major, so I was brilliantly impressed at how he approached art theoretically; however, I think the concepts may have been a little bit foreign to non studio art majors, and confusing. I think art terminology and history translation maybe needed for this course.
By the way this is the King's Art room interior.
Note: there are 2 rooms: one for storage
of supplies and one for just painting etc.
(All rights of this photo belongs to King's
College, Cambridge University respectfully.)
Once class was over, I had a lunch break and headed back to Pembroke Dining hall for a quick lunch. One of the things I do love about the dining hall is the fact that there are long tables, so sitting next to strangers and meeting people is made easier and creates a sense of community.
After lunch, I headed off to CUS dining hall for my first lecture in "Management and Business Ethics." My professor, Raphael Silberzahn pretty much outlined the course his expectations, business plans etc for half an hour. Afterwards he proceeded to lecture about globalization and networks of society etc. My thoughts: I do love connecting globalization to business and so far I like this course, and am interested in seeing where it goes.
Later at night I attended my the first formal, "PKP Welcome Formal Hall." What is a formal? Well it's not a fancy dance. Formals in Cambridge are dinner events that allow students, faculty, professors etc. to meet and network with each other. Not only does this create a sense of community amongst the colleges, this is one of the events that allows you to meet other fellow students without feeling awkward introducing yourself.
How does it work:
Formal halls begin with a social before dinner. During the social, wine is provided on the college lawn. (Note: being able to step on the lawn is a privilege because no one except senior members of college are ever allowed to walk on the grass. Sometimes you can find signs in multiple languages sometimes saying "Keep off the grass."
Unfortunately for me, today was rainy so while we were "on the grass" we were stepping on a cover on the grass in a little tent because the grass was muddy. I proceeded to get some wine and chat with my friends/ meet new people. Afterwards, when dinner was served. I was amused by the fact that the napkins had the Pembroke crest on them and the fact that the butter was shaped in flowers. Wow. This definitely makes me feel like I'm in Hogwarts. Anyways, today's formal hall menu: Minestrone soup with prosciutto, Steak served with Yorkshire pudding, bread and butter, potatoes and carrots, (i forgot the dessert), and coffee and mints. The meal was wonderful although the potatoes were - uncuttable. Seriously, to eat the potato you had to stab the potato...multiple times.Other then that I'm just sad that I actually didn't take many photos of the food or anything, so unfortunately I can't share with you how amazing my first formal is.
However, here are a few photos:
Tonight was amazing and I'm looking forward to more adventures soon!
July 4th:
Summarized because this post is long:
Weather: a bit rainy.
Today I attended my first seminar. In contrast to discussions in the UCS, seminars differ in "International Management and Business Ethics." Normally in discussions, TAs tell you some questions and you have to answer them. In this case, we were given hypothetical, yet practical problems and told to solve them.
For example: What if you are a prime minister of a LEDC (Less Economically Developed Country) your country has no social infrastructures, and your people are starving yet you have a resource: trees. A company from a MEDC (More Economically Developed Country) comes in and offers to provide your citizens employment; however, they want to cut trees (unsustainably) and refuse to pay for any ecological damage done. What do you do?
Anyways after my courses and seminars, I didn't feel like eating at Pembroke Dining Hall so I decided why not get Chinese food? After almost a week without Chinese food oh my god, I had some urgent "asian food" cravings. I ran into 2 of my friends and sat with them, met more people, and we enjoyed Chinese food together. I know I'm suppose to celebrate my 4th of July by being American, but honestly I didn't care, and just craved asian food. I guess this is my way of celebrating 4th of July? Happy 4th of July by the way.
After dinner students were required to go to CUS for information on the
"Scotland and the North trip." During the meeting, we were told to
reserve the events we wanted to go to by going onto the PKP website,
logging in, and reserving things (there were limited number of spaces
for each event.) For example: hiking to Arthur's Seat in Edinburgh had
30 spots opened per day and was COMPLETELY booked by the time I tried to
book anything, so instead I opted for the Killian hike for Friday, and
National Scottish Gallery on Saturday.) What did I learn? Booking and
finding out which events friends will turn into a hot mess when
there's planning, contacting, and lagging websites involved. Other then that, Greg mentioned a story and complaints about some BYU (Brigham Young University) students from past years, getting kilts and er...wearing them properly and running around BYU. I certainly hope that there was no wind at that time.
Well now I suppose it's time for me to pack and prepare for tomorrow's great adventure! I'll definitely write more later!
So until then, cheers!
Tina
Weather wise: today there was random drizzling and rain. So I woke up in the morning and headed down to Pembroke Dining Hall at 9AM. I ended up eating sauteed mushrooms, English bacon (ham), and poached eggs. Yummy :). Afterwards I walked with some of my friends to CUS; however, coming back I got lost.
I ended up making a wrong turn at some point and ended up at Jesus College's back lawn. ok terrible pun: Jesus! University of Cambridge is HUGE.
Anyways, I then had to ask a porter which college I was at, and from there how do I get back to King's College, and for the first lecture I was 30 minutes late. That awkward feeling one gets when everyone in the room stares at you for walking in 30 minutes late into "The Marriage of Spirit and Matter Course."... it's just embarrassing. Anyways, this class was The professor, Thomas Newbolt proceeded to question me and speak about art theoretically. "What is art spiritually? Why is this course called "The Marriage of Spirit and Matter?" What is the act of painting or even the first strokes of a painting etc." 1 hour later he gave us paper and pencils then proceeded to tell us to draw a still life of a tea kettle and a cup. I'm a studio art major, so I was brilliantly impressed at how he approached art theoretically; however, I think the concepts may have been a little bit foreign to non studio art majors, and confusing. I think art terminology and history translation maybe needed for this course.
 |
Note: there are 2 rooms: one for storage
of supplies and one for just painting etc.
(All rights of this photo belongs to King's
College, Cambridge University respectfully.)
Once class was over, I had a lunch break and headed back to Pembroke Dining hall for a quick lunch. One of the things I do love about the dining hall is the fact that there are long tables, so sitting next to strangers and meeting people is made easier and creates a sense of community.
After lunch, I headed off to CUS dining hall for my first lecture in "Management and Business Ethics." My professor, Raphael Silberzahn pretty much outlined the course his expectations, business plans etc for half an hour. Afterwards he proceeded to lecture about globalization and networks of society etc. My thoughts: I do love connecting globalization to business and so far I like this course, and am interested in seeing where it goes.
Later at night I attended my the first formal, "PKP Welcome Formal Hall." What is a formal? Well it's not a fancy dance. Formals in Cambridge are dinner events that allow students, faculty, professors etc. to meet and network with each other. Not only does this create a sense of community amongst the colleges, this is one of the events that allows you to meet other fellow students without feeling awkward introducing yourself.
How does it work:
Formal halls begin with a social before dinner. During the social, wine is provided on the college lawn. (Note: being able to step on the lawn is a privilege because no one except senior members of college are ever allowed to walk on the grass. Sometimes you can find signs in multiple languages sometimes saying "Keep off the grass."
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| King's College "Keep off the grass sign" in 6 different languages! Including but not limited to: English, French, German, Spanish, Chinese, and Japanese! |
Unfortunately for me, today was rainy so while we were "on the grass" we were stepping on a cover on the grass in a little tent because the grass was muddy. I proceeded to get some wine and chat with my friends/ meet new people. Afterwards, when dinner was served. I was amused by the fact that the napkins had the Pembroke crest on them and the fact that the butter was shaped in flowers. Wow. This definitely makes me feel like I'm in Hogwarts. Anyways, today's formal hall menu: Minestrone soup with prosciutto, Steak served with Yorkshire pudding, bread and butter, potatoes and carrots, (i forgot the dessert), and coffee and mints. The meal was wonderful although the potatoes were - uncuttable. Seriously, to eat the potato you had to stab the potato...multiple times.Other then that I'm just sad that I actually didn't take many photos of the food or anything, so unfortunately I can't share with you how amazing my first formal is.
However, here are a few photos:
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| First part of formal: Having white wine and staying classy. Photo taken by Lloyd Wong. |
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| After the photo I had a picture taken of me and one of my new amazing musical friends, Kin. |
July 4th:
Summarized because this post is long:
Weather: a bit rainy.
Today I attended my first seminar. In contrast to discussions in the UCS, seminars differ in "International Management and Business Ethics." Normally in discussions, TAs tell you some questions and you have to answer them. In this case, we were given hypothetical, yet practical problems and told to solve them.
For example: What if you are a prime minister of a LEDC (Less Economically Developed Country) your country has no social infrastructures, and your people are starving yet you have a resource: trees. A company from a MEDC (More Economically Developed Country) comes in and offers to provide your citizens employment; however, they want to cut trees (unsustainably) and refuse to pay for any ecological damage done. What do you do?
Anyways after my courses and seminars, I didn't feel like eating at Pembroke Dining Hall so I decided why not get Chinese food? After almost a week without Chinese food oh my god, I had some urgent "asian food" cravings. I ran into 2 of my friends and sat with them, met more people, and we enjoyed Chinese food together. I know I'm suppose to celebrate my 4th of July by being American, but honestly I didn't care, and just craved asian food. I guess this is my way of celebrating 4th of July? Happy 4th of July by the way.
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| Chinese Beef Noodle soup. It was delicious :) |
Well now I suppose it's time for me to pack and prepare for tomorrow's great adventure! I'll definitely write more later!
So until then, cheers!
Tina
Friday, October 4, 2013
Exploring Cambridge First "Official" day July 2nd.
Ok I know I didn't exactly get around to sharing my adventures, and I did write little notes before so I do remember what happened. Anyways these are my thoughts then and also some now.
Monday July 2, 2012
Today I went to Cambridge Union Society Building (CUS) and proceeded to listen to a variety of speakers (including the ones I mentioned in my past post) speak about Cambridge University welcoming PKP students. Few things about Cambridge Union Society that I learned:
Did you know?
1. It's the largest society in Cambridge University itself and that oldest continually operating debating society in the World, and has developed a reputation as for free speech and open debate.
2. Cambridge University doesn't contact speakers, speakers actually have to contact the Cambridge Union Society to speak. Past speakers have included: Winston Churchhill, Stephen Hawking, and Dalai Lama.
Wow Needless to say I'm dumbfounded. Seriously, the more I learn about Cambridge the more I want to apply here for graduate school.
Afterwards I proceeded to meet more people, and took tours of the Pembroke College Library, King's College Library, and finding out where my classes are/ trying not to get lost.
Pembroke College Library and King's College Library Induction:
Ok so the tours weren't as interesting; however, both libraries are SPECTACULAR.You walk into the Pembroke College Library and you are greeted by murals, and doors with rows of books everywhere. The only thing that makes me sad is the fact that the library opens from 9AM - 9PM =\ not too ideal for studying but hey it is dead silent at least. The second floor of Pembroke College Library looks like a mini library from the beginning and middle of beauty and the beast.
Well....maybe not completely. here's an image of the interior if anyone's interested.
Exterior of Pembroke College library:
King's College Library: you take a staircase up and are greeted by an odd dragon statue. There's a second door which you need your ID to get in. The King's College Library is similar to the Pembroke College Library. To me interior wise it does remind me more of the scene in Beauty and the Beast library. One of the perks I love about the King's College Library: it's open 24/7! and like the Pembroke College Library it's dead silent. Hello new study place!~
Ok, so after that I proceeded to walk around and find my other classes, 2 of my classes are in King's College. "The Marriage of Spirit and Matter" in King's Art Room, and Management and Business Ethics seminar in the Munby Room. The good news: both classrooms are next to each other. The bad news: stairs. I had a complete Harry Potter moment finding these classes: I now know what it's like to be Ron or Harry rushing up to go to Dividends class because of the 2 huge swerving stone and marble flights of stairs. At least they don't move like Hogwarts's stairs?
So my other class for this module, Management and Business Ethics is being held in the Dining Room in CUS so that's not too hard to find. Class has not yet started, but I'm super excited and can't wait for my first class.
Side note of choosing housing: I chose to stay at Trumpington Hostel. I love Trumpington Hostel and its proximity to the Fitzwilliam Museum. For those who are interested in choosing housing location for your stay during the PKP programme, don't be like me and choose your housing close the proximity of Fitzwilliam Museum. I mean if you want to choose places like Trumpington Hostel or Garden Hostel etc for cheaper housing that's a good reason, but please be aware that your classes maybe anywhere from .4-1 mile + away. Also may involve a bunch of staircases everywhere. so BE AWARE! On a positive note: I think I may lose weight during my stay from all the walking I'm predicting I'll be doing.
Until next time, Cheers!
-Tina
Monday July 2, 2012
Today I went to Cambridge Union Society Building (CUS) and proceeded to listen to a variety of speakers (including the ones I mentioned in my past post) speak about Cambridge University welcoming PKP students. Few things about Cambridge Union Society that I learned:
Did you know?
1. It's the largest society in Cambridge University itself and that oldest continually operating debating society in the World, and has developed a reputation as for free speech and open debate.
2. Cambridge University doesn't contact speakers, speakers actually have to contact the Cambridge Union Society to speak. Past speakers have included: Winston Churchhill, Stephen Hawking, and Dalai Lama.
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| Here's the sign entrance. |
Wow Needless to say I'm dumbfounded. Seriously, the more I learn about Cambridge the more I want to apply here for graduate school.
Afterwards I proceeded to meet more people, and took tours of the Pembroke College Library, King's College Library, and finding out where my classes are/ trying not to get lost.
Pembroke College Library and King's College Library Induction:
Ok so the tours weren't as interesting; however, both libraries are SPECTACULAR.You walk into the Pembroke College Library and you are greeted by murals, and doors with rows of books everywhere. The only thing that makes me sad is the fact that the library opens from 9AM - 9PM =\ not too ideal for studying but hey it is dead silent at least. The second floor of Pembroke College Library looks like a mini library from the beginning and middle of beauty and the beast.
 |
| Pembroke Library's Interior reminds me of his + Beast's Library. |
Well....maybe not completely. here's an image of the interior if anyone's interested.
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| Still gorgeous though right? (All rights of the photo belongs to Pembroke College, University of Cambridge respectfully.) |
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| Gorgeous! I wished UCI libraries were like this. |
King's College Library: you take a staircase up and are greeted by an odd dragon statue. There's a second door which you need your ID to get in. The King's College Library is similar to the Pembroke College Library. To me interior wise it does remind me more of the scene in Beauty and the Beast library. One of the perks I love about the King's College Library: it's open 24/7! and like the Pembroke College Library it's dead silent. Hello new study place!~
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| The dragon statue I'm talking about. |
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| I don't think King's College photo does the library justice of how beautiful this library is but it's all I could find at the moment. (All rights of this photo belongs to King's College, Cambridge University respectfully.) |
Ok, so after that I proceeded to walk around and find my other classes, 2 of my classes are in King's College. "The Marriage of Spirit and Matter" in King's Art Room, and Management and Business Ethics seminar in the Munby Room. The good news: both classrooms are next to each other. The bad news: stairs. I had a complete Harry Potter moment finding these classes: I now know what it's like to be Ron or Harry rushing up to go to Dividends class because of the 2 huge swerving stone and marble flights of stairs. At least they don't move like Hogwarts's stairs?
So my other class for this module, Management and Business Ethics is being held in the Dining Room in CUS so that's not too hard to find. Class has not yet started, but I'm super excited and can't wait for my first class.
Side note of choosing housing: I chose to stay at Trumpington Hostel. I love Trumpington Hostel and its proximity to the Fitzwilliam Museum. For those who are interested in choosing housing location for your stay during the PKP programme, don't be like me and choose your housing close the proximity of Fitzwilliam Museum. I mean if you want to choose places like Trumpington Hostel or Garden Hostel etc for cheaper housing that's a good reason, but please be aware that your classes maybe anywhere from .4-1 mile + away. Also may involve a bunch of staircases everywhere. so BE AWARE! On a positive note: I think I may lose weight during my stay from all the walking I'm predicting I'll be doing.
Until next time, Cheers!
-Tina
The first day of PKP July 1, 2012
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| My lovely room in Trumpington hostel. Wow it came with mints. |
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| When I look outside. This is the view I see. Fitzwilliam Museum!!! |
At the PKP Welcome Dinner, I'm not going to lie the moment I first saw King College's Dining Hall I geeked out: OH MY GOD IT'S LIKE THE DINING HALL OF HARRY POTTER MOVIES!!!
Ok, so after that geeky moment I got food, sat with random people and proceeded to chat and introduce myself. Turns out when you're studying abroad from my observation people are more open and empathetic because they're in the same situation as you: homesick, having no idea what to expect etc. Of course everyone's going to ask "What school you came from, what year you're in etc." but honestly, I had a wonderful time talking about sleep deprivation, getting lost coming to Cambridge etc. At the formal dinner Greg, Carlos, Nick and a few other directors of the programme spoke, and I swear being welcomed really made me feel like I was going to Hogwarts. Afterwards, I made new friends: Katharine, Jason, and Sesenu. We proceeded to explore Cambridge, and randomly talk. Later we went to a sports pub, and on the second floor watched Spain kick Italy's bottom in football (soccer for Americans) on TV. For sports fanatics who are wondering, yes people do show spirit and paint their faces etc. Also saw some Japanese students, and we wanted to ask if they were from PKP Program but they didn't want to respond in English, so I proceeded to speak in Japanese. I think the Japanese students, Jason, and Katharine were dumbfounded by the fact that I could speak Japanese. I also tried ale for the first time and finally found a beer I enjoy and shared with Katharine because we can only drink so much: Hobgoblin.
I don't want to make a complete judgment yet, but I think I may have just found my closest group of friends in PKP.
Also the purple lanyard I have in that picture holds cards to get you access to King College's Library, Pembroke College's library, Pembroke College, King's College in general or food points. Wow cards...I think I'm going to feel like a spy or something because you have to flash the cards at the sensors to enter, and I know we don't have that at UCI so I have to say... how cool is that?
Ok so that was the amazing first day!
Note: If I don't get around to updating this blog anytime soon I will probably upload it in the future so just look forward to that.
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