Before I talk about the week long Japan experience, let me first give you a glimpse of what led me to apply to this short exchange program.
I clearly remember that it was the day of UP's lantern parade, when I (together with some of my friends) saw one of my Peter (also one of my friends) holding a application paper. After some diligent prodding in our part, he revealed to us that he was planning to apply for a short exchange program in Japan. He told us that it was coordinated by the Department of Science and Technology and it was an all expense paid trip.
You heard it, right! All expense paid trip which includes the visa and medical insurance!
Who wouldn't want to be part of such a grand experience? Free trips are rare and they're considered blessings to us poor frugal students. However, Peter told us that the deadline has already passed and that we have slimmer chances of getting chosen. Because, aside from being late, we do not have a valid passport for the trip.
Nevertheless, I believe that as long as the chances are not yet zero, miracles can happen. Therefore, on the same night, we hurriedly processed our application and went immediately to the shopping center to have our passport photos taken.
The following day, we immediately went to DOST Bicutan. It was a long commute, jeep to MRT to a bus followed by a walk under the scorching heat of the sun. Upon reaching the compound, we were exhausted and drenched with sweat. The personnel even told us that we were in the least priority.
However, we still clinged to that little chance and hoped for the best.
Indeed, the travel was not for naught. A few weeks later, I received an email in January telling that I was chosen.
