Monday, July 23, 2007

Friday July 20th, 2007

Friday, July 20, 2007

Another day of class. We learned about the Chilean education system’s history, infrastructure, classroom style etc. Then we had a lecture by a Chilean Judge who was in office when Pinochet took power in 1973. This judge faced a got a lot of heat from the dictatorship for his left leanings, i.e. he refused to uphold Pinochet’s unconstitutional and illegal laws. He ended up resigning his office and now works in academia. He talked about Chilean law and the judicial branch of the government. He was a very interesting man who spoke English with almost no accent. But of course he gave his talk in Spanish and it was highly technical, so I was pretty lost.

After lunch we had an amazing lecture by a Music Historian/Professor at La Chile. He talked about the transformation and creation of Chilean popular music, Chilean folk music and Chilean Rock, from 1950s to 1990 and its reflection of the social, cultural, and political changes of Chile during that time. He was highly entertaining and I wish he could give me a lecture on American music to catch me up on basic musicians and groups that I should know but I don’t.

After class CIEE took us all out to dinner to a traditional Chilean restaurant. We ate a delicious meal while we listened to live Chilean music. Everyone really enjoyed themselves; even our tutors enjoyed the piscos and vino and started singing with the group. Afterwards a group of us went to Plaza Nunoa and had drinks outside. Its very strange to be able to go to a bar and order drinks. Nights like this make me realize that I don’t have a problem with alcohol, only irresponsible use of alcohol.

My Spanish is seeming to get a tiny bit better. I’m able to understand a little more everyday and I’m learning hundreds of new words. I know my retention rate isn’t too hot, but it will get better. I’ve barely been here a week! To bed, I need sleep because I’m going to the beach tomorrow!

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