Sunday, March 18, 2012

From the Mail-

Hi!
I am kind of copying Nicole's idea, but I thought it was a good one!

Look what I got in the Mail:
 Thank's for the idea Nicole:) 

This guide just kind of tells about the whole experience and helps you through it. Helps you get ready for it. It describes the different orientations and what the next "steps" are. 

Arrivederci-
Rachael
                                                                                     

Tuesday, March 13, 2012

Italy? Italy!

Well Hello There!

Today was amazing.

So, I was sitting in second period, watching a horrible and boring movie when I receive a text from my Mom. (Good influence, texting me during class). It says: "You have been accepted to Italy!!!!!!". I almost screamed. In the process of trying to stop myself from screaming, I kind of let out a little squeal. So I got quite a few odd looks, but I DON'T CARE! I JUST GOT ACCEPTED TO ITALY.

I am so happy right now. The weather is warm. My birthday is in exactly 1 week. And I have 171 days until I leave for (in my opinion) one of the most beautiful countries in the world. I feel so amazing right now. Now, all I have to wait for is my host family, the visa process, and time to leave! (September 2nd, give or take).

Thank you to all who have donated and supported me going to Italy! It doesn't show up on the "ChipIn" button, because my family and friends have sent me checks. But thank you everyone.

Arrivederci,
Rachael

Thursday, March 1, 2012

Almost, Kind Of, But Not Quite.

Hello!

So yesterday I got a new email that said:


Dear Rachael,
I am writing to you with the results of the Viaggio Italiano scholarship for which you applied. Unfortunately, we are not able to offer you this scholarship opportunity. With dozens of outstanding students competing for just a few scholarships, the members of the selection committee were faced with difficult decisions.
Although you were not selected to win this scholarship, your application is very impressive and we would like to offer you a $500 award to help cover a portion of your tuition.

So, it was kind of bittersweet. I didn't get the full scholarship, but I got 500$. Which is definitely helpful, and I will take all that I can get, but it is kind of a let down too. As far as I know, no one else got the 500$, and I find it kind of strange, but that is okay:) It is 500! 

I have no news on the being-accepted-to-AFS-Italy front yet, but people are being accepted left and right, so I think that it will happen soon! Hopefully.

Thank you! 
Arrivederci 
-Rachael