Blog Post 6

Now, I've been in the Brown University Summer Program for a little more than one week already. And I am still feeling quite ambivalent about being here. I definitely am learning many new things, but at the same time, I don't think the courses I've chosen meet or push my limits. The beneficial thing though, is that the professors are all impressed by me, and if I continue this, I would have a good report card from these recognizable professors that I could put into my college application. And on other aspects, I feel like I've been spending too much money, both on food and clothes. Even though there are cafeterias that provide food for us, the food really isn't that great, and there are several really nice restaurants that are in a 5- minute walking distance. And since I do most of my year-round shopping in the summer in the US, I feel like I've spent way too much money on shopping already. And in the socializing aspect, it just hurts my ego. In Taiwan, I can talk to anyone, regardless of gender, for as long as I want. However, here I can only talk to girls, and not even all of them. I barely can talk to any of the boys here. I'm not sure if it's because of the culture clash or it's because we are in the program to look for different things. If you know what I mean. Many people, not only boys, but also girls, are here to learn things, but at the same time, enjoy their summer a bit more, again, if you know what I mean. I'm having a great time with my friends, but at the same time, being intimidated and having my ego hurt every time I try to go out and talk to other new people.