Finally!

I've just read Alex's post and it makes me more excited than ever to get going to the airport! The excitement built by just a few meetings is insane, and I can't wait to see all of the amazing history we have heard about. The sad part is knowing how fast 2 1/2 weeks will fly by, and so we will have to make a lifetime of memories pretty quickly. These memories and experiences will be the highlight of my Master's Degree program. As a student of Political Science, I have never taken a Sociology course. I hope it doesn't make me want to change my major, because its a little too late for that!! I do intend to incorporate my interest in political science into the experiences that I will come away with. During our stay I am going to focus my studies on the Millet system of living and government that existed during the Ottoman Empire.
This system of governing allowed great political and religious freedoms. It exemplifies how various religions and cultures can be intertwined to create a unique, diverse, and free society. The Ottoman's were successful in ruling this type of society, and since that time the religious and political climate has fluctuated. I will attempt to better understand this fluctuation between historical, traditional, and modern ways of life and government in Turkey. In my 30 years, most of them spent as a student, I've learned almost nothing about Islam and Muslim tradition. I cannot wait to expand my understanding of one of the world's most influential religions.
These are my expectations for the academic portion of this trip, but my excitement and expectations do not end there. I cannot wait to immerse myself into this culture rich area! The marketplaces will be full of so many wonderful things, and as I walk through, I will think about the list of people in my head that I have to bring a piece of Turkey home to. The smells of the food that fill the air will be an experience in itself. Trying new foods is an adventure, and I am an adventure seeker! I have experienced the region's food here in the United States, and LOVE it, so the real thing must be even better. Food will not be the only thing, in Turkey, that is mind blowing for me. As Americans we do not enjoy the lenghty culture and history that other nations do. One trip to Western Europe and any American will say, "Wow, we don't have anything like that!" I am expecting Istanbul, Turkey to provide a historical experience even greater than that of Western Europe. Architecture of old buildings, historical neighborhood walks, Roman cities will not only provide an amazing educational experience, but will be a fantasy-like experience involving a bit of time travel. Busy markets, delicious food, time travel cannot make for a shabby summer. Dikkat, Turkey!! HERE WE COME!