Silence on this end is mostly a reflection of the fact that my examination period commences in one week. The system is very different here than in the United States. We have been in courses and seminars since October with no examinations or papers until now. The first week of March I will take three exams which will be my one and only shot at passing the taught segment of my program. Needless to say, there is a lot of pressure.
That does not, however, preclude any of us IR people from also enjoying ourselves in the process (as has been the theme throughout). As a welcome break from the intensive weeks of studying, Emily and I decided to host some of our IR colleagues at our house for a nice evening meal. We cooked vegetarian-friendly curry pie which was complemented by salads and an apple-rhubarb crumble for dessert, courtesy of Helen.
One of 4 Pies
Our dinner together was a true reflection of the diversity found within the international relations program here, and manifested to me that so much of what I have learned here has not been from the courses, as interesting as they have been, but from the unique perspectives of my fellow course-mates who come from all walks of life and the conversations that we have.
One really neat thing about our course in particular is that nearly half the course is compiled of current or former military personnel both from the United States and Great Britain. At our dinner we had a former U.S. Marine (he has served two tours in Iraq and in Afghanistan-- definitely a perspective that too many people are not exposed to), a current U.S. Marine, and a soon-to-be U.S. Army Ranger (So we were literally and figuratively "cooking for any army" (of 15)). These young men (there is no female military representation in our particular program), really represent the important balance that needs to be struck between the real world and the academy and I really admire their willingness to strive toward excellence in areas which can, at points, become quite divergent. I also love that, despite the vast array of differing opinions among an inherently political bunch, we all can enjoy each other's company and have an incredibly good time together.
Finally, Emily invited me to be one of two guests at college "Guest Night" at Queens'. What this really meant was I got to enjoy a formal hall meal in the Old Dining Hall without having to wear my gown. What a treat indeed!
So, with good company and good food to keep me going, it is now time to go back to the books!
Guest Night With Emily
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