Day 19

Today was alright, spent time in the computer lab for my Marine Ecology and Coastal and Marine Geography courses, learning how to interpret the data that we collect on our field trips. I also found out that Thursday afternoons on the student quad a whole bunch of people set up tables and sell clothes, pet clothes, jewelery, purses, etc. to college students like me. I bought a ring today that was made out of the inner spiral of a seashell. So cool! I need to remember to leave my purse at home in the future though, because otherwise I’ll come home completely broke.

I also got a care package in the mail from home today! It took 16 days to get here and the cost to ship it was outrageous but I love love love being reminded of home. Also, I won’t have to buy snacks for a while and it included some essential items like scissors and a stapler which I desperately needed. Never before have I wondered where my next staple would come from… College students here seem to not ever like to spend money, so a lot of students will go without things like staplers and scissors if they can borrow it from a friend. In the U.S. we’re all so accustomed to having our own things and just going out and buying whatever we need. I’m trying to adapt to this Kiwi lifestyle and saving some money along the way.

I also went to a Shakesperian play tonight called Richard III (I think that’s the name of it anyway). Our hall director gave away ten free tickets and it was on campus so I went with all the other International House students. I left after intermission though, because I forgot that Shakespeare created three hour long plays and I’ve got to get to bed if I want to get up early! The actors were really good but the story line was a bit confusing. It was neat though because, like the other play that I saw last week, they set up an outdoor theater. I’m trying to make myself go to whatever artsy experiences are available (especially the free ones) because they usually have a lot to offer and I’d love to gain more perspective on things.

I’ve decided to go for a run before my field trip to the first three beaches tomorrow, so I’ll be getting up really early. I’ll let you know how it turns out tomorrow!