Visiting Colleges

Georg didn't wait long before he and Maria took Friedrich to see the two colleges closest to them. Their first stop was Georgetown University in Washington DC. After Georg parked the car, they followed signs to the admission office.

They paused and stared at a huge building made from grey stone. "Father, that building is enormous."

"It certainly is." Maria concurred.

"We need to go inside and find the admission office." Georg said as he led them to the building's double doors.

Inside they were greeted by a receptionist. "Good morning. Young man are you a prospective student?"

"Yes, I am. This is a large building."

"Yes, I hear that often. As you probably know, America was founded by people from Europe. American architects copied the Victorian Gothis Buildings. Many churches and institutional structures were built during the era. Is there a particular reason you came to visit Georgetown?"

"Yes, I was told that the university does a lot of medical research. I'm hoping to learn about medicines to prevent illnesses like Scarlet Fever and Influenza."

"That's a very lofty goal. I haven't heard about any research in those diseases but I'm sure the University of Baltimore has. A doctor, Thomas Foley, recently discovered a new medicine to treat Scarlet Fever and other infections and he is also doing research to prevent Influenza."

"Mam, we're going there next. Now I'm really excited."

Georg added. "Thank you for your time."

"You're most welcome."

Friedrich was on cloud nine as they left the building. "Father, will it take us long to drive?"

"I don't think so. But I suggest we have lunch first. I know of a place where we can get a meal quickly."

Georg drove a few blocks to a building with the name, Horn and Hardart Automat. Maria commented. "That's an odd name for a restaurant, Georg."

"Yes, I know."

Georg found a parking spot nearby. They entered a small building which held many tables and chairs. Along one wall were many small compartments which held food items.

Georg explained."You put a nickel in the slot and the door will open. For three or four nickels you have a complete meal."

"What a clever idea. Kurt would really enjoy this place."

"He certainly would Friedrich."

In a few minutes, they each had a complete meal with milk or coffee to drink. Soon they were back in the car on their way to Baltimore. Signs along the way pointed Georg to the university. He found a parking place close to the school.

Another sign directed them to the admission office. They entered another rather large building and were promptly greeted.

"Good day, what brings you to the university?"

"I'm interesting in attending it. I was told you have a research department for treatments for various diseases and also to learn ways to prevent them."

"You are correct. Give me a few minutes to find someone who can take you on a tour and tell you all about our research."

"Father, I think this may be the school for me."

"I think so too."

In a few minutes, the receptionist returned with a man wearing a white lab coat. He spoke immediately. "Good day, I'm Dr, Foley."

"I'm Georg von Trapp and with me are my wife Maria and my son Friedrich, from my first marriage. His mother died from Scarlet Fever. Now he wants to pursue a career which will find medicines and maybe ways to prevent other diseases."

"You've come the right school. John Hopkins University was founded on a model Of European research institutions; where research and the advancement of knowledge are intertwined with teaching.

"Friedrich, you would have opportunities beyond your imagination. Right now students are learning about a new Yellow Fever Vaccine as well as a better way to prevent Tuberculosis."

"Sir, this is exactly what I'd like to do."

"So, you've made your decision to attend the university."

"I have sir."

Since you are here, I can give you all the things you would have received by mail. Follow me back to the admission office."

"Jane, this is Friedrich. He's decided to attend the university. He needs his packet of information.

"Friedrich, I'll look for you after orientation begins. Georg and Maria, I sense Friedrich will do extremely well, I expect him to have his name on articles which are published by the end of his first year."

"Thank you, I know Friedrich is extremely happy to be attending your university."

Two happy parents and their son left the building with full smiles. And Friedrich talked about it all the way home. Once there he shared his good news with everyone.