first impressions...

Just a week ago, I was thinking about my Microbiology final, skydiving, and moving out of my apartment, which left little time to develop any expectations of my trip to Lisboa.

But here I am today, having experienced and seen places I didn’t think possible…and this is only the beginning.

I’ve been placed in a dorm affiliated with the Universidade Nova de Lisboa for international students. A seven minute walk to the metro station, a 30 minute ride on the metro (after changing lines in between), and a 20 minute hike up some serious hills, I found myself at the Med school, a beautiful building sitting atop one of the “seven hills” of Lisboa.

I was given a tour of the gorgeous school by one of its med students and then at last, I was introduced to my tutor, Dr. Pedro Rodrigues. Chinese born to a Japanese father and Portuguese mother, this man has done it all and been everywhere.

Soon after discussing what I will be doing for the month and receiving a tour of his labs and lecture halls, he invited me out to lunch.

Not a 20 minute lunch I’m quite accustomed to skipping, but an hour and a half lunch at the “garden” where he may have sensed my urgency to get back to work and said, “take your time; it’s not healthy to eat too quickly.” That statement practically embodies the vibe I sensed. Efficient, yet relaxed. Accomplished, and content.

Having seen the med school and the neighborhoods that surround it, I witnessed some of Lisbon’s rich culture and history.

What surprised me was my visit to Oceanario, Europe’s second largest museum of marine biology, which was built as part of the World Expo ’98. Here I saw the modern side of Lisbon, with its incredible mall, stadium, casino, and a random assortment of different places.

I quickly developed an appreciation for Portugal’s ability to hold on to its authentic culture and history, yet not be held back by the will to embrace modernity.

Please forgive the formatting of the pics..I tried. Until next time, boa tarde!