And thus begins my graduate education. In Boston.

I had orientation a week ago, and Aaron and I simply sat shaking our heads at the unbelievable credentials that spilled forth as my department's professors introduced themselves to the present students. To say that I am surrounded with some of the most brilliant minds in my field would be an understatement. It seems all of my leaders have already lived more than successful careers and have settled into a happy retirement of challenging the young minds of those who will someday, hopefully, be their successors. C.I.A. retirees, ambassadors, international experts, historians, and Congressional advisors are just a few of whom I will be learning from. Michael Corgan, my first professor this morning, after a full and successful navy and teaching career at the top military schools in the nation, served as the top military advisor (I may be slightly sketchy on that exact title) to the top leaders in Iceland.

Professor Corgan is excellent and I am already excited and hungry for the elevated level of talent and expertise that I have the priveledge of sitting through this semester.

I am off to Professor Prodomou next (Religions and International Relations), whom I first met with on my visit in December, who it is safe to say is one of my idols. She is the head of my specific field of study: International Relations and Religion, and reports and advises Congress on how to deal with religious injustices around the world, among many other very important things. She is incredible.

My classmates represent most of the world. Americans are definitely in the minority. It is excellent! So many different ethnicities and religions are openly represented - I am eager to learn alongside such individuals.

And it is refreshing to finally see the final piece of my fall life schedule fall into place. Work is balancing out with nine hour opening shifts almost every day that I am not at Boston U (which is only Wednesdays). Aaron and I are fighting to protect our Sundays - our Sabbath and day off - which I only continue to learn of its importance as I progress in life.

Things are good. Moral is high. And I am enjoying my first day in the city, finally fully submerged in my "Think Tank."