Memories of Alnwick
John Koch ’95, Minneapolis, Minn., Alnwick 1994
11 years after leaving the Castle, it still seems like I was just there. My memories of the Alnwick program are still so vivid and I still find myself thinking about my many adventures there. Attending the Alnwick program was the best thing that I have ever done in my life, except for marrying my wife. I met so many unique people, both in the program and traveling, that provided me with many wonderful memories and made it such a great experience. I met a few very close friends that I still keep in contact with today and many others who I consider friends even though we have lost touch. The program brought together such a hodge-podge of interesting people but we all had the unique bond of sharing a great 6 months together.
I still remember the first day arriving at the castle wondering what I got myself into, after what seemed like a 3 day bus ride from Manchester. I still remember being awed by the fact that I would be spending the next 6 months living in a real castle home to a real Duke. It is amazing how much I learned about British and European culture from the classes and my travels. I still miss those weekend meals at the Market Tavern and playing darts at Oscars. I surely don't miss the loud heavy metal guitar music my neighbor (Kris Anderson) used to hack out in Upper Dianna.
I've been back to Alnwick two times since I left in 1994, most recently in the fall of 2006 on my honeymoon. My wife kept hearing my talk about my great times in Alnwick and I just had to share a part of that experience with her, I was surprised to see a huge tree house (the worlds largest) complete with a restaurant that was recently built on the castle grounds, along with a massive addition to the gardens. I plan on going back again when I can. I would love to hear from any of my fellow Alnwick classmates at: johnydog@comcast.net . I hope you are all well.
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