Last Friday was my final day testing at one of the three schools I have been testing at!!! As wonderful as that feels, it is such a strange thing to look back and realize that my PIRE experience is slowly coming to an end. The children participating in my study have been so wonderful and cooperative and they constantly surprise me with their English proficiency as well. Being able to test in a school setting has been such a unique experience and also something I never imagined I would be able to do as an undergraduate student, especially in a foreign country! That being said, it was actually a little bit sad leaving the school on Friday, although I am so grateful to have had this experience!
One positive part of finishing testing a little bit earlier than usual on Friday, however, was that I was able to explore the nearby city of Leiden! What is usually just my transfer station became a nice place to explore on a beautiful Friday afternoon. I was able to walk around and enjoy the Amsterdam-esque city of canals, shops, churches, and parks. There is also a university located in Leiden, so college students were in no short supply! I absolutely loved visiting Leiden and I’m so glad that I was able to fit in a short trip! While in Leiden, I also discovered the one and only perk of not knowing the Dutch language: no lying involved when trying to dodge a salesperson or promoter on the street. Although I have to admit it was a little unfortunate when I was approached with what seemed like a very rehearsed spiel, only to have the salesperson disappointed by the mismatch in my seemingly-interested face and clear English response. Sorry, dude.
Now you’re probably thinking okay. that’s great, but what about the food trucks?!? Well, after I returned back to my apartment that evening, Christianna and I went into the city center and attended “TREK” a food truck festival in Hunnerpark! If you haven’t figured this out by now, most of my life revolves around food, so how could I pass up an opportunity to sample tons of amazing foods on a beautiful summer night in Nijmegen?!
Stroopwafels will always be number one in my heart, but poffertjes are a close second!
Overall, 10/10 Friday! 🙂