Today began on a frustrating note. Someone stole my yogurt from the common refrigerator! Do not be alarmed, apparently that’s the way the cookie crumbles in catered corridors. My food was pretty secure, but I took extra precautions afterwards to be sure. Thankfully it was only one thing of yogurt; I don’t have much in the way of food stuffed in the fridge but will be extra vigilant from now own. No worries!
And wouldn’t you know that about fifteen thousand other Americans registered for Scottish Fiction? Okay, not quite that many but the ratio of Americans to Brits is something like 5:1. We Junior Semester Abroaders all seem equally excited to soak up as much Scottish culture as possible, so the ratio really is not that surprising. Just as I was beginning to doubt whether or not Scots actually lived in Scotland, a tweed-clad professor ambled into the room speaking with a delightfully Edinburgh-educated accent, more of a dignified mumble really, characteristic of intelligence. I did have a nice chat with one of the British students in the class, from Northern England, so my need for novelty was satisfied for the moment.
On my way back to New Hall I stopped by a bakery recommended by a professor at Berea College who also studied abroad at St. Andrews. Fisher & Donaldson’s produced one of the best pastries I’ve ever, ever tasted. The “Wee Rhubarb Tart” was something out of a dream! I will definitely be back for seconds. Another place I visited under recommendation, the Whey Pat Tavern, was charming but not very study-friendly - contrary to reports. I had a coffee in any case, which was a nice break in the day and a chance to feel a little more British. The real treats happened this evening!
It all started when my American friend I met on Sunday, who is living in St. Andrews with her husband and adorable children, invited me to their flat for dinner. It was so nice to be in a home away from home. Turns out, this family is just charming, we’re very like minded, and their children were the cutest and so much fun! I felt so blessed and provided for. I’m really looking forward to engaging in the St. Andrews Baptist community.
Not two minutes after returning to New Hall, I received a message that Bible Study was just beginning so I met up with the LINKS group. We fellowshipped and studied Ephesians 1 for about an hour. Meeting other (British!) students was so refreshing. They all seem so warm, friendly, and considerate to make me feel welcome into their group. I would highly recommend any student studying abroad to find where they belong in their host countries. Joining a club, group, society, or study can be an invaluable way to not only meet new people, but also maintain personal interests. My soul was nourished and my spirit encouraged. I left Bible Study amazed that God knew exactly what I needed for the day. Bed now, breakfast at the Christian Union tomorrow.
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