Big Words

I am in awe of how much I learned today.  Not only was my room a normal temperature when I woke up, I made it down to breakfast by 7:15 and actually got to eat.  And I learned a lot in Physics class.  In the morning, we learned about particles and their origins.  We all chuckled a bit at the theories of old scientists that seem incredibly ridiculous now.  The amazing thing about science is that in 100 years, 17 year old physics students will be laughing at us.  I am so excited to be taking a class in such a current and changing field. Tomorrow, CERN will be making an announcement about a particle that they may have discovered.  Today's lecture was a background on particles and CERN's research.  It was quite fascinating and included many complicated words like phlogisticated and Higg's Boson.  However, I won't even attempt to explain the details because that would just end badly for all of us. 

After this lecture, we went in to the lab and built telescopes with PVC pipes and lenses.  When we got them right, we could read a fortune at the end of a tube.  Even though the process was a little frustrating, I had a great time working with my lab group and I loved the sense of accomplishment I felt when we finally read the fortune. 

After lunch, we learned more about optics and spent even more time in the lab with lasers and lenses.  I love doing so many experiments and experiencing everything we are told hands-on.  We got out early again, so I spent some quality time with Mariko at the university bookstore until dinner.  When we got back from dinner, our whole cohort got together and Mr. Lawrence came to visit.  Then we joined up with some new friends, went to Urban Outfitters, and walked around the Home Area for a while.  Thankfully, I am starting to get my bearings around campus and am no longer wondering around lost. Well, most of the time. 

Tomorrow, Mr. Lawrence is taking us to the Independence Day Parade and concert.  I'm excited to get away from campus for a bit and spend some time with the cohort.  I'm also happy to experience the 4th of July on the East Coast.  The ILC continues to amaze me with all the opportunities and amazing experiences I am having.