Dear Sam,

There’s really nothing to worry about in the next five weeks, so live it up. The classes can be tough at times, but it’s nothing you can’t handle. You’re going to learn more about different types of car fuels than you previously thought possible, especially since they teach it in both of the classes you are taking. Between you and me, it would be worth knowing that hydrogen has the highest mass energy density out of all the current car fuels. There’s very little homework throughout the week, but they make up for that with a test or project due at the end of the week. The tests aren’t a piece of cake, but if you just put in the necessary hours there’s absolutely no reason why you shouldn’t do very well on them. The projects are a whole different story. The project for the first week takes significantly longer than the estimated eight hours, it is due on Sunday and if you want to have any fun on the weekend it’s a good idea to start on Thursday. The second project isn’t nearly as bad, just go with the flow and it shouldn’t be an issue.

    Everybody else on the program is great, and you’re going to make plenty of friends. Just go with your gut and things will be fine, it’s a winning formula. Everybody is always looking for something to do, so when you want to go check something out it won’t be hard to find people to go with you. If you need some time to yourself though, which you will, there’s nothing wrong with taking the day to just get some chores done or explore by yourself. Just keep moving, there’s always something to do, and you want to make the most out of every second you are here, it’ll end in a flash.

    You might be asking, “What are some ‘must do’ activities while I’m there?” First off, take the weekend after the program ends to hike the Zugspitze with Molly. If you go alone you’re definitely going to get lost on the mountain and accidentally pay way more than you need to for trains. Stay on the military base while there, it’s easy, available, and will bring back lots of good memories. The hike manages to exceed our expectations, even though the peak is covered in clouds the entire time we’re up there. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone too, karaoke is lots of fun if you get into it. Lastly, there’s a river in the English Gardens that you can float down and it’s a blast, it’ll make the 90 degree days less oppressive. Most importantly though, just have fun, there’s really no way to mess this up.

Sincerely yours,

Sam