So far Junior year has been the most demanding thing I have ever done. So much to do, not enough time to do it all! That’s why I have started to put things in perspective, trying to sort out the important jobs and events from ones that I can miss or option out of. I’m sure all of you can relate on some level. Just work through each day and take it in stride!

International Events

Thank you to all who signed up to join this year’s International club, either voluntary or by force J We had our first meeting this Wednesday and I was thrilled to see so many people turn up. We discussed a lot and had a good time getting to know one another. I also discovered that food is a great incentive for high turnout. I will keep that one in mind . . . For anyone who is interested in still joining just send me an email. juliakole@walsh.edu. We would love to have you! Keep watching emails for the latest in International events and happenings.

Celebrating my birthday, International style! Sukko Thai, yum!

Tennis Time

Practice, practice, practice! I’m sure I lost about 10 lbs this week alone sweating it out on court and through conditioning. Though I can barely stand and it hurts to laugh, I know it will all be worth it once the season starts. Let’s hope our men’s team did well today at West Liberty! Go Cavs!

Playing a match in Florida during Spring Break.

Travel Tips and Tangents

What the heck is this? Well in order to not bombard you with enough travel stories to start my own series all at once, I figure one story a week will suffice. It will also bring you some hand-on experience of areas around the world. This week: Malta.

Never heard of it? Not surprising, not many people have. This country is a wee island between Italy and Africa, a former British colony mainly used as a military and trading point. It was also the home to the Knights of the Templar for quite a while way back in the day. The Island itself is a physical mix of African and European geography, and the culture is just as confusing. I would meet Egyptians with Maltese citizenship, speaking with an English accent. The food was wonderful and very Middle-Eastern influenced. Prices were ideal for shopping and there was much to see and do. I even made it to the beach and enjoyed a day in the sun with a fellow Rome Experience student. Getting a tan two weeks before Christmas, how insane! Definitely a spot worth exploring.

Me enjoying the December heat in Malta. A spectacular sunset followed soon after this photoshoot.

The funky, retro buses that somehow still run. A few close calls, people drive crazy in Malta!

Now time for me to get back to work and start planning out my weekend. Have a good one everyone!

Julia