I made it. We made it. Through the love, compassion, and caring exhibited by all of my friends, family and neighbors, We were able to reach my goal, and for that, I want to give a big thanks. This dream has been 3 years in the making, and now it is all finally coming into realization. To everyone who supported my effort: if it were not for your kind and generous donations and encouraging words, I would not be where I am today. I would not be on the verge of delving into one of the most complex and fascinating cultures on the planet. And I would not be preparing for one of the greatest trips of my life. And for that, I could not be any more grateful than I am at this very moment.
I would also like to give a special thanks to AIFS and the Robert F. Kennedy Foundation for choosing me as one of their recipients of a scholarship in the amount of $2,500. A huge thanks also goes out to Mrs. Fraley, a friend that recommended that I apply for the scholarship. I remember sitting in the school cafeteria when I got that call from you guys, and words could not even begin to describe the immense joy that took over me after upon the arrival of that wonderful news. This scholarship has helped in too many ways to count, so once again, Thank you.
Now that everything is folded, packed, and accounted for, it's time to hit the road (or the runway in this case). I leave tomorrow! Here's what I'll be doing the next few days so y'all can keep up.
Monday (Tomorrow)- Depart from RDU (Raleigh/Durham Int. Airport) to LAX (Los Angeles International Airport). 5 hour flight. Orientation after arrival.
Tuesday- Depart from LAX to NRT (Narita International Airport in Tokyo). 11 hours of staring out the window. Meet up with AFS students from around the world.
Tuesday-Saturday- More orientations. Depart from hostel to meet host family on last day. The adventure really begins. Get ready Japan.
During that time, I will do my best to let you guys know what's going on and take as much photos and videos as possible. Please stayed tuned, and post any comments or questions below in the comments section. I would really love to hear from everyone and write about things in Japan that interest you!
Well, it's getting late, and my flight leaves at 7 in the morning, so I think I'm gonna wrap it up for now. To all my friends and family in the states, I love y'all, and I'll see you in August! to all the AFSers that might chance to read this post... WE MADE IT! HERE WE COME JAPAN! ARE YOU READY?!
I'm out, guys.
