Reflecting Under the Stars

So the fourth of July proved to be a tough holiday for us international folk. Breakfast wasn’t all that great so a friend and I ended up going to Denny’s. We also wanted Starbuck so we went over and it was CLOSED!!! We were both sad and had to settle for 7 Eleven (the only place open). We came back to the facility and hung out and chilled and then we headed out to the BBQ that was put on for us. It was short and sweet and we didn’t spend too much time outside in the heat. We then returned and played cards until the fireworks started at 9pm. We could see them from outside our windows. They were beautiful and truly represented the USA’s colors.

On Tuesday, I attended our class on Ethics. It was very interesting both as a result of the content and the class discussion. Everyone got very involved and brought their views to the table. I don't think I have been in this type of class yet. Our teacher was great; she played Disney music throughout the class and brought us tons of goodies. (see picture below) That made the class go more smoothly and kept all of the students alive. For the small group project for the class we had to pick a topic we had discussed and make a poster of it with markers and cutting out things from magazines. I had so much fun doing this project. It reminded me of being in high school again.

Today we had a site visit of La Quinta Resorts in Palm Springs. It was gorgeous. It was so peaceful and the pool looked amazing. I just wanted to jump right in. We were taken into a ballroom where we had a presentation of the Hilton brand. They also showed us their newest marketing video. The video was well done. We then took a tour of the property. We saw 2 bedrooms, one with a pool view and one with a dessert view. We walked through the hotel lobby and the courtyard. (see pictures below) I was hoping I might bump into a famous celebrity like Adam Levine or Gwen Stefani. The workers said that they often get high status celebrities stay at the resort. Both Gwen and Adam have stayed there before. No such luck today.

To end of a less learning intensive day, I went for a nice walk this evening with some of my friends. We walked around the UCR campus and then went and star gazed for a while. I didn't realize what I could learn and gain from stargazing with some really awesome people. 

It made me reflect on why I decided to do this program in the first place. I am thankful for them, their truths and their honesty and most importantly that I can call them friends. I am astounded that it has only been a week and a half of this journey. 

XOXO

Michelle

(Goodies from my Instructor)

(La Quinta Visit)