Let's rewind a bit...

What made me want to go?

So, this whole interest for Japan like I said, started when I was 10. My family was visiting some relatives in California and that's when it all started. My second cousin Amber was showing me some pictures from her recent trip to Japan and it looked absolutely beautiful. Ever since then, I knew I had to go.

How did I get started?

I finally started the process of applying to an exchange program during my sophomore year of high school. If you're thinking of going on exchange you might be thinking "Ah! What program should I go with?" Well, I highly recommend going through Rotary International. Rotary has the cheapest program and it's definitely by far the best. They pay for a lot of my major expenses such as textbooks and school uniforms while at the same time, they give me a monthly allowance. Not only does Rotary pay for a lot of stuff, but I really do feel completely safe using this program. If you aren't doing well with one of your host families, they get you out of there and into a different home as soon as they can. Also, there are many people there to to help you at all times. They've got the art of going on exchange down to an exact science! Besides the wonderful prices and extensive amount of support from all the Rotarians, my absolute favorite thing about Rotary would have to be all the friends I've made. I have to say, we're a pretty incredible group of people. So choose Rotary! Once you've chosen your exchange program, apply and it all pretty much goes down hill from there. So please, if you have any questions about applying to go on exchange, ask me!

What happened when I was accepted?

When I was accepted, well, I pretty much freaked out. I've never been so excited about something in my entire life! But besides screaming and jumping up and down, I've had to do a lot. If you go through Rotary, you're going to be busy, busy, busy. There's a number of functions you have to go to and depending on your country officer (the person coordinating your exchange), you may have to do some projects on the side. Applying for your visa is also a big one. Depending on what country you end up going to, there will be different visa requirements. For example, some of my friends had to go and get FBI checks in order to be let into their host country. So please, be prepared to do a lot. Going on exchange already has and is going to take a lot of commitment. Now that it's summer, I'm studying like mad. Study, study, STUDY. But it will truly be worth it in the end. It will make going on exchange much easier and enjoyable.