Everyone is here, safe and sound, along with all of their luggage. Hurrah for that!
This morning, the Carlin family went to the USM International Office, where we met the USM buddies. Each Gustavus student is paired with a Malaysian student, who will help them navigate life on campus. We and the USM buddies–and David, the single Gustavus student who arrived the night before–boarded a charter bus to the airport, where the students’ plane landed at noon.
Waiting to meet the Gusties!
The USM students did a great job of keeping Simon entertained.
It was a lot of fun to see everyone meet for the first time.
Then, we went straight to taking care of basic practicalities. The students tested their Gustavus debit cards to make sure the cards would work (they did!). They installed SIM cards in their phones to make sure the phones would work (some did!). We stopped at a Giant hypermarket where they could purchase necessities (pillows, water, clothes hangers, etc.). Many students grabbed a quick bite to eat at the cafe inside the store.
Shopping for some basics.
Finally, the bus took us back to campus and dropped off the students–Gusties with their USM buddies–at their new dormitories. After nearly two full days of travel, the Minnesotans can finally rest this evening. Tomorrow is a full day of orientation!