This past week has been a whirlwind to say the least. Not only did we have to attend a bunch of classes because we still needed to figure out what classes we wanted to take in our schedule, but we also needed to finish turning in paperwork to register as an International Student, as well as meet with those who were helping us get our internship started. So, first things first, classes.
As I said, the classes were not set up beforehand as to which ones we were going to take so we had the lovely task of attending as many as we could, to figure out if we liked the subjects (aka if we could understand what in the heck the professors were saying). The first class began bright and early at 8 AM. This means that we had to leave our apartment at 7:10 to catch the bus for the 1/2 hour bus ride to our campus. Unfortunately, you can't just roll out of bed, throw your hair in a bun, grab some sweats and go because the people of Granada are dressed well all the time (what have I gotten myself into)! So we're up at 6:00 AM to provide enough time for all 3 of us girls to throw ourselves together and look presentable, and I must say, we do a fine job. :) Anywho, the first class on Monday was called "Biomecanicas Tecnicas de Deporte." We arrived about ten minutes early, which allowed us some time to introduce ourselves to the professor. After explaining that we were students from the United States and were here studying through a grant he said in English, "Welcome to Granada." I like him already! This particular class is worth 7 credits, which transfers to about 4 back to UWL. The class meets 4 times a week for 1.5 hours.
Next up was "Fisiología del Ejercicio." About 5 minutes into the class I knew I wanted to completely scratch this one off of the list because his accent was thick and I could not understand one word the man was saying. Neeexxxxxt! We were supposed to have one more class, but the professor did not show up, so we walked home. Whew, one day down A LOT more to go.
Tuesday found us arising to get to a class at 9 AM...or so we thought. Apparently, we looked at the schedule wrong and the class started at 8:30. So in addition to being the 3 American girls who already stick out like a sore thumb, we arrived 30 minutes late. Whooops. We were schedule to have another class, but lo and behold, the professor didn't show up for that one either. Not that I'm complaining! So, we walked home again (which, by the way, is a solid two miles, at high altitude).
Wednesday we only had the Biomechanics class. It's similar to the Biomechanics class back home, but throughout the week, we spent an entire two class periods on how to research for journal articles online. Thank God, something we already know how to do! As the professor was teaching the class, he warned us that a lot of the journal articles would be in English. Then, staring right at us three girls, he asked the class, "Como se dice Biomecanicas in Ingles?" Which means, "How do you say Biomecanics in English?" All three of us were just grinning from ear to ear. He then went on to explain that "those 3 girls" should know the answer because they are here studying from the United States. He told them that they should help us and we will help them. Immediately, every single person in the room turned to look at us. Talk about getting called out! Overall, this is my favorite class so far and we've decided to keep it in our schedule. After class, one of the guys sought us out and introduced himself. His name is Juan and he told us he studied abroad in Poland last year, so he knows how overwhelming it can be. He then gave us his contact information and told us not to hesitate if we have any questions. We were so excited to have our first local friend! Thursday was our long day with Biomechanics at 8 AM, Metodologia Condicion Fisica at 9:30 (which also was cancelled), and Teoria e Historia de Deporte at 12:30. The Methodology class is similar to the Strength and Conditioning class back at UWL and the Teoria e Historia de Deporte class is the History of Sport. This class seemed to be a continuation of last semester because on the first day two of the students gave a presentation. What was weird though, was that there were so many people talking throughout the entire thing! We just bit our tongues until the end of the class and talked with the professor after. While talking to the professor, three girls volunteered to partner up with us for our class presentations. So we'll find out how that goes! Friday we were supposed to have Biomechanics lab, but it was cancelled (surprise, surprise).
In addition to attending all of these classes, we also met with the people who we will working with for our internship. Paco and Carmen will be our go-to people for the duration of our internship hours. They explained to us that after getting our class schedule all situated out, we would begin our internship. The internship will consist of three different rotations, two in a hospital/clinic, and one WITH THE THE GRANADA SOCCER TEAM! Clearly, I'm excited for the last of the options. While I'm scared that I will have to do these rotations by myself, I know it will be good for me because it will force me to interact with the locals and speak the Spanish language. We're not quite sure what the hours for these different rotations will be, but as soon as I find out I'll be sure to let you all know!
I'm proud to say that I've brought my plumbing knowledge with me all the way over the ocean to España! The other day, our toilet wouldn't stop running, so I lifted up the top cover and began inspecting and fiddling with it. The toilets in Europe are a little different, but have no fear, I prevailed over the porcelain god. Papa Ron Berdan would be proud. :)
Our quest to find the best tapas has also been successful thus far. We've found a place just down the road from our apartment that gives you not one, not two, but three plates of tapas with each drink you order. What a great deal! We've obviously been there twice this last week.
I'd write more but this has turned into a ridiculously long novel. I'll try to get better at my frequency in writing. The next blog will also have more pictures.
Besos y abrazos,
Nana
