After a little over four days of being abroad, it's really not surprising that i have not quite mastered the german langauge. For me, the language barrier really is the most difficult challenge. First, and foremost, i feel absolutely terrible for intruding in their country without the ability to speak the language. I consider it terribley rude. Also, it is intimidating and scary to be dependent on the fact that people will speak English to me. Besides the language, though, I am very comfortable here in Germany. I was pleasantly surprised to find the very cool and abstracct buildingers here. There are some especially original modern buildings around the AIB office. I am very impressed. Our first classes in both history of medicine and German language have gone well. Ich hase Leigh (my name is Leigh) is my new favorite phrase. All in all I am very pleased with my frist few days in Dusseldorf. I look forward to the rest of the trip.