02.06.2025 – The slower pace during J-term was a much-needed break. As spring term kicked off, for a split moment I wondered – can I keep up with the fast pace again? Turned out, yes, getting back into high gear was as easy as adjusting to the slower rhythm of the holidays. And what a great start it has been!
Welcoming the Year of the Dragon: My First Chinese New Year Celebration
The spring semester started perfectly in tune with the celebration of the Chinese New Year. Thanks to my friend Bessie, I experienced traditional Hot Pot for the first time – what a delicious dinner! I think hot pot is quite similar to soup fondue, which my family never really ate at home. However, sitting together, and adding ingredients into the hot broth, reminded me of our traditional raclette at home). Aligned with Chinese tradition we were also gifted with a red cover for a letter with either money or a quote in it. Traditionally there is money inside which aims to bring good fortune and preserves the age during the year. I deeply appreciate being able to experience different cultural traditions and getting to know the values of other cultures.
Glimpses Inside the Minds of Europe’s Leaders – The Harvard European Conference
Friday and Saturday were packed with insights into European influence, politics, and economy by attending the European Conference at Harvard Kennedy School. I was lucky (and quick enough) to get a seat at the fireplace chat with Mirjana Spoljaric Egger, President of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). Hearing firsthand insights into humanitarian work and global conflicts moved me deeply. I can’t express my respect and gratitude enough for everyone fighting for the lives of others by risking their own.
Other Panels and Keynote Speakers included other interesting personalities, like EU ambassador to West Bank and Gaza Alexandre Stutzmann and director of the Instituto Affari Internazionali Nathalie Tocci. Topics discussed were the impact of the EU in conflicts like Gaza, the EU’s economic future, possible strategies moving forward, and the impact of fragmentation and sustainability. A question I found particularly striking was: “Who will be willing to pay the tradeoffs for a sustainable future?”
A Night to Remember: The Harvard Art Museum Gala
In the evening, I enjoyed small bites and sparkling water in a fancy wine glass at the Gala at the Harvard Art Museum. Being at such a fancy place, while looking at art, bumping into great people and listening to soft tunes was truly a special moment of my time at Harvard.
This Week’s Highs, Lows, Buffalo’s & Lessons Learned
High: Celebrating Chinese New Year’s, attending the European Conference and particularly the Gala, and enjoying the delicious coffee from the farmer’s market!
Low: The start of new projects sometimes feels overwhelming – this was how I felt starting to work on my Capstone project last week. In those situations, it gives me peace to connect myself internally with the moment I submit a project. It helps me to remind myself, that no matter what, I will get it done.
Buffalo: I had an orientation for a class at Harvard Law School this Sunday. Expecting an empty campus, I was surprised how many rooms were full of students on a Sunday. Oh, and the rabbit that sometimes appears in front of my house? Still there!
Lessons Learned: Listening to the speakers at the conference I realized how many people take tremendously courageous steps every day. I believe we all have this courage somewhere within us to move forward to the next step. Let’s find that space within ourselves and go back to it whenever we face decisions. What steps would you take in your life if you had all the courage you needed?
Coming Up Next: Apart from classes, I am working on two major projects this semester which I am excited to share with you soon. Stay tuned!
Have a great week!
Liebe Grüße aus Boston
Sophie
Is there anything you want to know about me, my classes, or my overall experience? Feel free to leave a comment or reach out!