Day 42 - Bern

The main purpose of my trip to Bern was not tourism, so I was not well-prepared in terms of places to see and things to do. Plus, I didn't have much time. I got to Bern around noon and went straight to the embassy, since I wanted to figure out where it was exactly. I did take some pictures on the way, but I was so preoccupied with not letting myself delve into a full-scale panic attack that I wasn't enjoying the city too much. Once I found the embassy (which was about 25 minutes away from the station), I had to go back and put my stuff in the locker (you are not allowed to bring anything - ANYTHING - other than a clear folder with application materials). I grabbed some food and went back again, feeling that the doom was getting closer...

I was wrong. My guess is that since Switzerland is clearly so much superior that the US ;), the whole presumption of immigrant intent does not apply. People who end up working in the US embassy or consulates in Switzerland are allowed to skip the class where their peers are taught to see every word as a lie and suspect everyone of a secret desire to become a burden on US economy.

The guy interviewing me was typing something the whole time and it didn't seem that he was paying much attention to the conversation. The dialogue went as follows:

Mr. Embassy Worker: Hello.

Olga: Hello.

MrEW: Have you ever studied or worked in the US before?

O: Yes, I went to college there, and then worked, and now I am back in school.

MrEW: Oh, did you know that they spelled your name differently in your new passport?

O: Yes, sir.

MrEW: It's OK. I'll put both names in the system so that it's easier for you next time. So what are you studying?

O: Information science.

MrEW: Ah, OK. ...[typing]... Huh?? Anything in particular?

O: Yeah, information science and museum studies. I want to work in a museum.

MrEW: I see. Well, you are all set. We'll mail you your passport tomorrow.

On the way back from the embassy Bern seemed so much more beautiful! I began to notice and appreciate wonderful medieval gothic architecture and bears (the symbol of the city) all around me. The Old Town is really pretty, albeit it feels like an overcrowded giant flee-market / shopping mall. Plus, there are crazy red trams everywhere - even on pedestrian-only streets. They are out to get me.

srah said on Monday, June 27, 2005 at 12:13 AM about The clock

I really like the angle and composition or something. I don't know anything about photography so I don't know what words to use.

PRITTY PITCHER.

apete said on Monday, June 27, 2005 at 12:56 PM about What is this thing?

Looks like a calendar! Stop making Michingan look so lame.

O said on Monday, June 27, 2005 at 6:28 PM about What is this thing?

Sorry to disappoint you, hon, but Michigan IS lame comparing to Switzerland... Not my fault :)