Day 130 - The Grand Old Duke Of York

Monday August 24th

Uneventful journey up to York, other than bumping into Charles and Suzan at Waterloo (what is the probability of THAT?). It was fun to be on the train and walking through Waterloo and Kings Cross again. Got the bus up to campus and for about an hour was horrified at the thought of spending a whole week here. It seemed a little geeky and I had nothing to say to anyone. Things improved as we walked around doing a Maths Quiz and by the evening had met a few people who I could talk to.

I really want to blurt out my story but I only get as far as "I start teaching in September...." at which point I am sure people are already judging me. I can't complain because we are all the same, it's human nature, but there is part of me that wants to tell everyone that I had a very successful career in my chosen field, was earning a very nice salary and then CHOSE to go into teaching. Of course, I want people to think I'm special. It's not going to happen so I will just have to remain special in my own mind.

This evening a venerable old professor donned period costume and told the story of Euler. This was striking on many fronts, not least that it was pretty interesting. I had no idea who Euler was until now. He used hand written overheads on and OHP....wow!

The course leader is pretty impressive. He is prolific in his output, very forthright in his opinion and is passionate enough to run this summer school. Good stuff. His presentation notes are unorthodox to say the least.