Ugh. Not such a great day. The Irish academic system is so different from the United States and something that's going to take a long time to get used to. It's not very nice, but I really see Trinity and maybe Ireland as "technologically deficient." Professors maybe, just maybe know how to use power point and computer programs. People are sometimes in their office if they feel like it, and a lunch break could last a whole afternoon. The pace of life is a lot slower, which could be a good thing, but from the U.S. perspective it's a hard adjustment. We, in the U.S. are so technologically advanced and obsessed with going fast and quick, getting stuff done here and now. Being here gives me a lot of perspective about how we do things in the U.S. It's hard though cause I'm so used to, and even, programmed to being constantly going and getting things done, that when something doesn't go right, its really stressful.
Also, the classes are huge. At Mount Holyoke, my largest class was maybe 50 people, and that was just one intro level geology class. Here, the professors don't know you, they are not personable or approachable. They are teaching to the class and not to "you". I miss my small school. Also, there are no assignments or homework. You just go to all the lectures and there's one final exam or paper. Yikes! And there's no like real reading assignments, just a list of books that you should read. I'm not going to sit down and read a giant textbook for hours. The system is overwhelming.
And it was wet and rainy today. Sigh. Just going to have to get used to a new way a life....
I miss you! You will get use to it. Just give it time.
ReplyDeleteI was at Blanch today, and saw a certain two people. I wanted to grab my phone and send you a nasty text, but alas, I couldn't. What is your Irish mobile, so I may send you texts via Skype?
I took Management 101 last semester and one thing we talked about were cultural differences. There's such thing as a Being vs. Doing society. An example of a "doing" society is the United States- The ideal/mainstream life of an American is to grow up, go to college, get a job, get married, have kids, and retire. In America, retiring is when we get to Live. It sounds like Ireland is a "being" society. While they might not get as much stuff done, like having all the latest technology and making sure all their citizens know how to use it, they're more relaxed and willing to enjoy the moment. Enjoy Life now.
ReplyDeleteThe change can be hard, but I think it's a good thing! Hopefully, when you get back to the States you won't be overboard with "being." Unfortunately, a clash in social standards can make it very difficult for a person from a different culture. Sad face. Why can't we all just get along? :P