Less Than a Month to Go

I've been busy working this summer to save up money for Japan. Since I last updated, here's some news...

Financially, I'm all set to go. Though I didn't get the Boren Undergrad Scholarship (poo), I did receive the JASSO, which I wasn't even expecting since I didn't actively apply for it! (I was automatically submitted for this scholarship through CSU IP.) I also applied for two student loans: a Stafford loan and a private student loan through my bank Wells Fargo. Between my loans and my existing National Merit Scholarship and California Governor's Scholarship, I should definitely have a cozy time in Tokyo.

I received my voucher in the mail for my plane ticket. I'm flying United on the group flight arranged through IP by Travel Cuts. The round trip ticket cost was $979, which means that there will be someone to greet me on arrival at the airport. They're also chartering a bus to take us and our luggage to the hotel, yay. As for my return flight, I requested a different date from the rest of the group. I'm going to stay in Japan until the 25th of July, so Aaron and I can relax together away from any school responsibilities for a while.

I was supposed to go to the Consulate in LA today for my visa, but that plan got crushed so it looks like I'll be doing that next week instead. I'm a little bit worried since I'm beginning to cut it close, but it's only supposed to take three days to arrive. Hopefully, that will go through smoothly. According to the website, there aren't any fees for US Citizens to get the visa, which is nice because I feel like I've paid a million fees already, heh. I still need to finish the pre-paid program cost, but all of that is pending my loans, so... now I'm just waiting.

I haven't done too much trip shopping yet, but I'll have to start soon. I have picked up luggage, TSA-approved locks, space bags, a new external HD, and a few bags for carrying different things; but I haven't picked up anything like toiletries and such yet. I guess I'm just putting all that off until the last moment. I've also got to start thinking about what clothes I'll be taking with me now and what I'll have shipped to me later.

I can't believe there's less than a month to go!