Monday’s Accomplishments

On Monday, we held a meeting with Abai to delineate our roles and responsibilities as we initiate the details of our project agreement. The two-hour brainstorming session proved highly productive, allowing us to clarify the subsequent steps within our project’s overarching timeline. Meeting Abai as official partners was a gratifying experience, and it was evident that our values are well-aligned. We are enthusiastic about our collaboration over the next few years. Our meeting concluded with a celebratory dinner at Agosto, where we shared a laugh, our experiences, and delicious food, fostering camaraderie among our new team members.

Key Takeaways

We departed the meeting with a comprehensive list of action items. The foremost task was drafting the agreement. Upon returning to our workspace, all team members collaboratively composed the first draft of Exhibit A, incorporating the key points discussed during the meeting. Additionally, we brainstormed the best approach for our research protocol, covering aspects such as school recruitment, methodology, and deliverable deadlines. We have scheduled a follow-up meeting to delve deeper into the research protocol to ensure the publication of research valuable to both parties.

To maintain a strong commitment from both teams, we established an agreed-upon communication plan, which includes bi-weekly meetings to keep all parties informed. We are deeply appreciative of having such engaged partners and are thrilled about the opportunity to work together.

Experiencing Almaty

On Sunday, we had the opportunity to visit the mountains and experience some of the unique outdoor scenery that Almaty has to offer. Despite the cold and rainy weather, our team hiked to a beautiful waterfall near the city. This experience allowed us to appreciate the breathtaking landscapes and the natural beauty that surrounds Almaty. Afterwards, we explored several popular spots within the city that locals frequent. Our first stop was the Ascension Cathedral, a breathtaking masterpiece. The interior was filled with gold and stunning artwork, leaving us in awe. Next, we visited the Almaty Central Mosque, which offered us a glimpse into the city’s rich religious diversity. Both locations highlighted the cultural and spiritual depth of Almaty, making our visit truly memorable. The architecture in Almaty is particularly captivating, with churches often showcasing vibrant and colorful designs. The mosque was especially unique to us, as such large and magnificent mosques are not commonly seen in America. The contrast between the vivid churches and the grand mosque highlighted the diverse architectural styles and cultural influences present in the city. After visiting these attractions, we headed to the local bazaar to buy souvenirs and experience where the locals shop. The bazaar offered a diverse selection of products, including an abundance of meat, fruits, and vegetables, as well as clothing and antiques. This marketplace gave us a true taste of local life and culture.