Finally Settling In

Today we moved into our respective dorms. I am very excited because I got a single! Before coming here I got a bit worried because I didn't want to go through having a crap roommate like I did freshman year, so I prayed that I would get a single, and I did. Not only that, I got one of the best singles in the residence! Its the biggest one I've seen, and it's almost the size of a double. Also, I get a double bed instead of a twin. Crazy. I spent all morning decorating my room, but there's still a lot more to do. I'm thinking about going shopping with this weekend for some pieces to spice up my room.

Classes start this week, so we have the whole week to attend as many as we can, it's called "shopping period," and then by the end of the week we have to make our decision. So far I'm thinking about taking a sociology class on women issues in South Asia, and two history classes: one on ancient art and architecture in Medieval India and the other on Religion, Culture and Society of Medieval India. Of course, I'll also be taking Hindi, but I still have to take a test to see whether I belong in the Basic or Intermediate class. Also, we can take noncredit courses in music and dance, so I'm going to try and take lessons in Tabla and Hindustani voice. I cannot wait. We met the teachers for that and when they gave us a little sample of each, I felt my heart leap and a huge smile spread across my face and wouldn't go away for a good five minutes afterwards. Tonight they also set up a musical performance for us to attend. It was a fusion group that included a Synthesizer, Hawaiian Guitar, Indian Violin, Tabla, Sitar and a drum set. I really enjoyed it. They played four pieces. I only remember two of them: they opened with one in the Yaman Raga and then later played on in the Bihag raga. The guitarist and violinist were fantastic! The Indian way of playing the violin is so unique; he rested one end under his chin and the other on the bridge of his foot (he was sitting cross legged; I took a picture which I'll upload later). Also, the tabla player blew me away. He's apparently been playing for twenty years or so. I can't wait to begin my lessons!

That's all for now.
Much love,
Miykaelah