This trip was my time to prove to people that I can be independent, responsible and courageous without anybody's help. I said "I can do this", and I sure did accomplish something really special to me.
I was one of ten chosen to go on a student exchange in Japan. I've studied Japanese for three years and wish to pursue studying it. I had the trip of a life time and gained so many life skills and experiences that have made me start to grow and find myself more as a person. Some people thought I wouldn't be able to cope without my family being there to help me out when I was stuck, or lost in the middle of Japan, but I did it and I even became a leaning post for some of the girls on the trip.
This trip outlined to me that you have to take every opportunity at hand and get as much out of it as you possible can because how do you know this opportunity will come back?

Market in Tokyo

Todai-ji Temple - Nara

Miyajima Island

Tokyo

Tokyo

Tokyo

Tokyo

Tokyo - Shibuya

Shibuya intersection

Sakurajima

Miyajima

Todai-ji Temple

Nara

Nara

Miyajima Island

School lunch

Kimono

School lunch

Traditional restaurant

Sakurajima

- Mel Rose