Day four began with the first optional yoga class. I'm not sure how this got added to a program geared toward intercultural competence and one course in a student's major area of study, but alas now most mornings at 8am I find myself teaching yoga to faculty, staff, and students from around the world and today specifically, how to get their back flat in a downward facing dog (thanks to Chris Crews) (See photos for pictures of baby/little children yoga). The first two days of yoga have went well and everyone who participates says it is a great way to start the day before a long day of lectures, special projects, team coaching (intercultural group work), and evenings spent learning about German businesses and food/music. Students also got a taste of German culture, history, and its present standing in Europe today. I worked on my lectures and met with German staff members to discuss a few minor details.
Day five was wonderful with yoga class today (Wednesday) and my first of three lectures in international public health. Our class size for public health is small (7), which allows us to more have a discussion or dialogue in class rather than a monologue-styled lecture. This afternoon Johannes Grundman gave an outstanding presentation on the German Healthcare System, which spurred a wonderful date that boiled down to the conclusion "What are individuals willing to give (or pay) to be a part of a country or society?". Whether it be time spent in military, social services, or taxes or other forms of sacrifice and service. I'm hoping Johannes can join us sometime in 2011 to teach USI's graduate students in health administration and perhaps lecture to advanced undergraduate students in the College of Nursing and Health Professions. This evening we have a BBQ at a local restaurant on a local lake ). Can you barbecue schnitzel and saur kraut?
It is sunny and 73F in Osnabruck and we are trying to enjoy every second of this wonderful city. I hope many more students, faculty, and my friends and family will be able to visit here soon.
We have so much to learn from each other including Jack Johnson songs as Kai has allowed me to borrow his live Jack Johnson record. Nice.
Bye for now,
Off to a Volkswagen Plant on Friday and then to Berlin for the weekend.
-Dr. Brandon
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