Ohh Studying...

For the first time in what felt like forever, class began at 10 am today. So, after a good night's rest and a lovely breakfast of croissants and espresso, we ventured to McDaniel College. We started on a strange note with our professor confessing his grumpiness. He had forgotten his notes back at the hotel, and had to begin the lesson from scratch one hour before we arrived to school.  Nonetheless, Bruce gave an inspiring lesson on linear congruence. The class was short and to the point. He lectured, we had one problem on the worksheet, and we were set free to spread our wings throughout Budapest. 

Unfortunately, we had to reserve most of the day for studying for our mid-term the next day. Somehow, however, studying here does not appear so unsatisfying as it does back in the states. We decided to make use of our surroundings, and journeyed to an internet cafe (see picture below). Jocie and Anabel entered the cafe to find a study-inducing atmosphere. There were comfortable chairs, and table space meant for Numbers Theory students. Jocie and Anabel took their seats, ordered an espresso and a cappuccino, and began studying. 

Eventually hunger kicked in. Although the cafe had a lot to offer, food was not among the offerings. Jocie and Anabel packed up their things, and headed out to grab some grub. In the past, we had found the best places to eat are found on a whim, so we just began walking. We came upon a Gyros stand, where Anabel was pleasantly surprised to find falafel, a vegetarian dish! Jocie and Anabel dove right into their dishes and were highly rewarded for their choices. 

Today after class, Sam decided to venture out to the library to study. Before entering, she had to get a library card, which costs less than 1 USD if you aren't planning on checking out any books. Apart from asking for a form of identification, the only other thing they wanted was her mother's maiden name -- they must take overdue books very seriously in Budapest! Finding a place to sit, however, was not as easy as getting into the library. Right now is exam time for Hungarian students, so they flock to the library much like Oles descend upon Rolvaag during finals week. On her way back to the hotel, Sam picked up some kürtőskalács, which is essentially dough baked over a spit and covered with something sweet. She got the chocolate one, and it was quite tasty. 

The rest of the night was essentially studying for our first big test of the trip. -Jocie, Anabel and Sam

Study Cafe

our flash cards and coffee

late lunch find

library

Samantha's library card