First Impressions

The first several hours I've been in Korea have been stimulating to say the least. Our plane arrived in a snowstorm, and it took about 1 1/2 hours to get to my school. I was met by a few of my co-teachers. They in turn took me to my apartment, where I dropped off my plethora of luggage. The apartment itself is actually quite nice for one person. I've got my very own kitchen, bathroom, office, and large living room/bedroom. Plus I'm able to steal wi-fi off of the neighbors! I didn't have much time to get settled in, as my co-teachers insisted we go out for a bite to eat. I was the only one who ate, but it was something familiar; a ham and cheese sandwich. I also am fortunate to have a Dunkin' Donuts, Baskin Robbins, and McDonald's close by. Such immersion. My exhaustion soon gave in, and we left for a convenience store so I had supplies to survive the night (bottled water, toilet paper, coffee). I later found out the teacher before me left a years supply of TP at the apartment.
(Above Picture) The Incheon Bridge was completed Oct. 2009, connecting the island airport to the mainland. It's over 13 miles long and cost over 1 billion dollars to construct. Cool!

It's been on the go ever since I landed. I slept for about 6 hours, and then got in my suit and tie to go to school this morning. I was introduced to many different teachers (I don't think I remember any of their names). I was not on my guard when I walked the halls during passing time when a mob of kids surrounded me (I'm talking like 100 screaming 14 year olds). Some gave me high fives, others yelled various greetings, but most looked at me slack-jawed as if I was Godzilla himself. Frankly, I'm a little terrified to walk out there again. I'll be at a workshop with other English Teachers this afternoon, and will slowly throughout the next few weeks acclimate myself to my surroundings. Much more to come.