"So, hows it been so far?"

"Hows it been so far?" This is a question I'm asked every time some one learns that I'm an international student. One word: super awesome (to use an American expression). Yes, that's two words cause its been that great.

I came here not knowing what to expect. Being Islamic (as Americans call it) and looking it, I was nervous to say the least. However, that was unnecessary. Every one I have met has been so great. I went to the bank the other day, and the lady was so helpful. When she found out that I was an international student, she took me through the whole procedure of how things are done and how the system works and different aspects of my account. No, I'm not stupid. Just like I would go pick a pillow back home and be done with it in seconds (refer posting: "Discoveries abound"), having a bank account just isn't a big deal. I don't need to have an account back home to have a life.

Everyone here is so open minded and not at all judgemental. My first semester is coming to an end and I haven't had one incident of discrimination of any sort. I have met the nicest people and continue to do so. They respect differences and ask questions. Ive met southerners (no they are not slow) and northerners (no they are not snobbish) and all kinds of people who are stereotyped to be one way or another. The only thing I know about all of them is that they are all nice. I have no other word for it.

I'm looking forward to my next semester......