Detour

My Scandinavian utopia is great and I'm really enjoying my classes, probably more so than I have any other semester. It feels good to be back to classes with which I can actively participate and feel as if I am really learning (something which didn't happen as frequently in Chile).

But here is the thing ... today I took an unfortunately necessary sidestep out of my Danish wonderland and stepped into the depths of immigration. Even with something as universally miserable as an immigration office Denmark has proved to make it a relatively easier experience. I arrived an hour before the office closed and assumed that I wouldn't be seen with a 90+ expected wait time but I decided to wait anyways. It turns out that once they close the office everyone who had entered before waits and the office staff waits on every person. A novel idea huh? I don't believe they do that in the DMV typically ... correct me if I'm wrong.

All was not perfect though. I had been frustrated earlier that morning having spent 12 dollars to get four passport size photos just to push the button and have two unexpected flashes ... two of the pictures were of me looking ridiculously bewildered and nearly sideways. Good news, I probably only needed the two photos anyways. I found the office and after about 2 hours my number was called and turned in my application.

You may be wondering ... isn't a residency permit something you should have before you are a resident? Right. Ok, so I was out of the country before they could even send my acceptance letter ... which meant I couldn't apply for the permit ... in Chile the embassies told me that only Danish and Chilean citizens could apply there and so I was without time before arriving in Denmark. I had spoken with the program and they knew at least three months in advance that I was unable to get the permit until arriving in Denmark. No problem, it is just going to be a bit of a hassle ... right, well it turns out you aren't supposed to start studying without the residency permit either and when I nonchalantly answered that I had already started my program the immigration gal was a bit taken aback.

Hmm... problem? I don't think so ... of course this is me not wanting to get worked up about something I have no control over but really, what good would it do me to worry about it? I've applied and have done everything I was told ... I'm sure I won't be deported : )

So for now I wait.
No big deal : )


Ok, next time I'm sure I'll be writing about the snow we might have this weekend or the Chinese New Year party I get to go to next week or at least something with pictures!!