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Institution
Medizinische
Hochschule Hannover
Host
Institution(s)
Emory University,
Atlanta, Department of Genetics
Mentor: Xiao-Jiang Li, Ph.D
Study of molecular biology of Huntington's Disease protein
›» Abstract
Having been to California and New York before, I came to realize that Georgia is different in many ways. Some might say it "has it all": the international glitter of Metropolitan Atlanta, small cities and towns filled with history and heritage. Others come to Atlanta looking for the Old South stereotypes - white-columned mansions surrounded by magnolias and owned by slow-moving folks with accents as thick as molasses. Well, maybe there is truth in both (especially the southern accent). But one thing is for sure: it is unique in its own way. Having had the opportunity to visit S(p)in City, New Orleans, (not only during Mardi Gras), and sunny Florida, I was reminded how diverse this country is. Each state has it own charm, its own 'rhythm'. While in downtown Atlanta the mall closes at 6 p.m., in New Orleans' Bourbon Street the party gets started after the sun goes down.
Everyday life also revealed some obstacles. Working in a lab with mostly Chinese members, I initially had to adjust to 'Chinese' English. And I am afraid that my English didn't improve at all. Nevertheless, I am glad to be here. I have learned many new techniques and gained a better insight into Huntington's Disease and research in general.
All in all, I really enjoyed my stay here in the US, experiencing its cultural diversity and beautiful landscapes and having the opportunity to work in a very productive lab.
BAFOEG, BAFOEG, BAFOEG and getting hold of Professor Stolte. I recommend that BAFOEG students, who intend to participate in this program, should contact either Le, Payam or me. We can tell you a lot of (unbelievable) stories. Besides, it was no problem for us to get the IAP-66 from Emory. In fact, I received my visa two months before departure, but that was because of my mentor's efforts and cooperation.
There were so many; maybe meeting Austrians (Professors of German at Emory University) at Harris Teeter, a supermarket next to our apartment, was one of the funniest incidents. They were totally stunned seeing two Asians speaking in a perfect German to each other.
1. Well, everyone will tell you this: Make sure that you bring enough money with you.
2. In Atlanta you will definitely need a car. Public transportation is really bad. By bus, it took us three hours to get to a place that was just 15 miles away from our apartment. If you decide to buy a car, you will have to get a Georgia driver's license. Insurance will be much cheaper. Additionally, in Georgia your international driver's license is only valid for 30 days. But it should be no problem to pass the road test that is actually taken in a parking lot.
3. Housing around Emory is pretty expensive if you don't want to share an apartment. But with a car, there should be no problem to find affordable housing. If you don't mind living in a youth-hostel-like environment, Villa International is a good option, at least for the first weeks.
4. Contact former BMEP students.
5. Don't expect too much from the organization of this exchange program. Although Birgit Heller, Laurie and Peg are very friendly and supportive, you will have to take care of most of the paperwork on your own.