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| Yup, this is how I reacted. |
As you have probably deduced from both this post's title, the little introduction, and from the image as well; you can safely assume I'm quite ecstatic right now. :D! So, the waiting game is finally over. Or is it? Well, I'm relieved to know that I will be able to participate in the program. Now, I wait until more information. For instance, I'm guaranteed a host family! That will definitely be an exciting day when I receive that information. The wait will be agonizing, no doubt. Yet, I know it'll also be rewarding. Of course, when I do receive that information, I'll probably want to learn everything I can about the city, the people, the family, the school, etc. That is, more specifically than the inquiries I've made about the country already. The email explained that the process of obtaining and matching host families to participants is a complex one. Nevertheless, I do trust AFS-France to match me with an ideal one. They said that the waiting time varies drastically (from students already receiving their host families immediately while some may get them once they arrive in the actual host country). Whatever the case, they stated that it is common for host family information to arrive during the month prior to departure. According to the AFS-USA website, approximate departure dates are August 28-31. So, my restlessness will most likely be at a pinnacle around July/August. I can't wait!
Next, visas. Yes, I am required to obtain a student visa for France. However, unlike some countries, AFS forewarns that the process for getting one from France is rather complicated and somewhat costlier than other countries. They said they'll email me detailed instructions about that around 1-3 months before my departure. Once I receive more information on that, I'll be sure to update this blog. Yet, I do believe I have to show up in person to a French consulate with my family. There's one in NYC, I think; I like the location. ;D I also think I have to get key documents notarized and translated into French and present it to the consulate. I'm not quite sure on all the details yet. AFS says that some countries require vaccines; I don't know if France does. However, the cost for the visa isn't covered by the $13,000 tuition so I'll have to pay that out of my own expenses. Either way, I'm looking forward to it.
I also received an email a few days ago about all participants being required to update their health forms and competing an activity waiver. I don't believe that's anything major, but it's some news. They said they'll email me that approximately 6 weeks before departure. The fundraising for tuition is extremely close to being reached, so I genuinely ask anyone for whatever they may be able to contribute. More details on that with Click here for more details on donating!.
Until then, the major wait is for host family and visa information. Oh wait, there's the pre-departure orientation on May 22nd. I'm excited for that as well.[= Other than that, the only other major news I have right now is that I underwent surgery for the removal of my two top wisdom teeth. Yet, if you'd like to know more about that, you can simply talk to me through any means you know how. I do have to go back in two week for the removal of the bottom two. I'm not quite hyped up for that. However, to make this AFS-related, I do realise that I've been finalizing and making a myriad of appointments with my doctors to ensure I'm prepared for departure. =D Meaning, a supply of contact lenses, having wisdom teeth removed, any other stuff I may need while abroad. Rest assured, I will be covered with medical insurance while abroad. Still, I'd like to prepare with as much as I can before I depart.
Have you heard of the viral internet sensation Rebecca Black and her infamous song, "Friday"? If you have, then you'll recognise my closing lines taken from the lyrics of the song's bridge.
"We-we-we so excited. We so excited. We're gonna have a ball."
- Yes, yes we are. Gello.
