Being an International.

My previous study abroad experience was a muchmore personal experience rather than an academic. Rediscovering my roots and understanding the lives of the Vietnamese constituted my entire trip to Viet Nam. But with this trip to Budapest, Hungary, there are varying degrees of differences.

There is esentially no program, simply a director here at Corvinus who assists us when in need. That makes it a lot less structured as far as being a student. We are in control of our own schedule, our activities and our academia. But perhaps the most interesting aspect is that of being only a fraction of the international student population here. There are so many people from various backgrounds.

My roomate is named Roldan, an international student from Venezuela. My neighors are both from Hong Kong. Thus far, the Depaul group--all three of us--and our roomates have integrated quite well--somewhat of a "salad bowl" as the term goes in the States. the wonder of this and other situations such similar is that through simple conversation, a whole new door opens up to us. In the past twenty four hours, I have learned so much about Venezuela--its political and social situations under Chavez--and the mindset of many Hong Kong residents in terms of career path, upward mobility.

Being in the States and often times being spoon fed two distinct views on issues--right or left--one often is enclosed within a box, regardless of how left or right one is. Roldan mentioned to me the other evening, as we were discussing social issues both in his nation and globally, that right or left really holds not much significance, or rather the importance is not simply right or left, but mroe on a matter of humanism, populism--the actual people. Essentially, understand the struggles, the circumstances of individuals rather than aiding them without acquaitance.

One of my greatest aspirations for this trip is simply not the eighteen hours I will be receiving as opposed to the sixteen at home, not the courses I will be enrolled, but more of a personal understanding of the lives of the minority, those forgotten. Here in Budapest, the Gypsies, although local, are regarded as second class citizens. I have plans to interview both Gypsies--to undestand their situations, their toils, and see how they view their place society. Likewise, as my cousin Hao suggested, to talk to the majority--the Hungarians--to conceptualize their persepctive on class and race issues within their own country. Equally important, I feel volunterring for some non-profit organisation here will give me an in depth look to these social issues.

Outside of this, I am greatly enjoying the life here in Budapest. The beautiful architecture, the food, the people, the beer, the relaxing lifestyle. It is really something else. Here are a few picture for you all who read my blog to enjoy.

tran.quy.hac.