Preparations commence

Bags are getting packed and final lists have been made. I'm anxious to hear what opportunities will present on this trip-- for students and faculty. On a personal note, I'm looking forward to my own personal myth-busting trip. Here is the scenario that most stands out in my mind when I think of VietNam: it's 1970, and we gather at a friends house to watch the draft lottery, clutching pieces of paper with our boyfriends bithdates, waiting for the first 175 lottery draws, the ones most likely to get drafted. I had only the most vague understanding of the politics of the war then; even less about what has happened since. I understand VietNam is not third world, but rather an emerging, middle class market that has made remarkable progress in the last four decades. I look forward to this trip with an open mind, intending to listen carefully for opportunities for mutual benefit, and hoping to change my long-held impressions of this country. Stay tuned

Gus already looks forlorn

He's watched me pack.