I am completely geeking it out this week at a social network analysis workshop at the University of Kentucky. It is a workshop that should help me design and run better studies using social network analysis. PSU is paying for part it, but the rest of the trip is economy style. As a result, I am staying in an old-school dorm for $20/night and walking everywhere. But so far, I really like it.
I had some scary preconceived notions about KY, but so far, none of them has been correct. The ride from the airport to campus was beautiful, as is the campus. The on-campus population is diverse, and people have been nice, but not creepy-nice. The weather is hot, but no worse than a hot & humid NJ day.
One of the best parts about being here is the gym. UK has a beautiful gym. The gym alone makes me want to get a job at a bigger university with a better gym. I have already gone to the gym 3 times - last night to run, this morning for elliptical and abs, and then after the workshop for a "core" class. There is even a rock-climbing wall, but I know my limits in coordination.
I am getting a lot of work (and working out) done, but I really miss my family. Mac always gives me mementos to bring with me. This time it was earrings and her Rapunzel doll. Whenever she gives me a stuffy, I take pictures and send them to her. Here is Rapunzel's trip to KY yesterday:
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| Getting off the plane at La Guardia (I had to fly out of Philly, stop in La Guardia, and then continue to Kentucky. Ridiculous.) |
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| Waiting between flights. Rapunzel is out of control...it was barely noon! |
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| Going from the airport to campus. |
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| Going to bed. Not my best look, but I wanted to show the full day! |
