Today was definitely in my top 3 days of the entire trip. We started off at the Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry. The research was absolutely incredible. I was especially impressed by the cancer treatment research. Knowing that in 10 years I could possibly hear that this research has successfully found a cure for cancer is such a surreal feeling.
I think the most significant cultural challenge I had today was dealing with tourist traps. I unfortunately fell for a trap and navigating that in a foreign country was a bit overwhelming. During the afternoon off, I went with Jana to the store to try to get my money back, then spent the rest of the day exploring the city and shopping.
The cruise was by far the best part of the trip. The views were absolutely stunning, and we just had a great time. I am so glad that we did that towards the end of the trip because we were all such great friends already and had that time to enjoy together.
Swanson School of Engineering 