30.09.2012 year

My name is Bilyana Ivanova and I am 17. I am of the people who won a schollarship for an exchange program in Japan. It took 6 weeks. I will tell you a little about my experience. 

I spent most of the time with my host family, in Osaka. I stayed there for a month and the rest few days, I was in Tokyo. In my host city, I used to go to a private language school, so I could learn Japanese. It was difficult, but worth it. Lessons were more like games but they were very helpful. I started talking to my host family and friends more. The main goal of this program is to fit in the local lifestyle and imaging you are a Japanese citizen. It changed me a lot, in a better way tho. I learnt many things, I became more responsible, independent and learnt how to get every moment and make it special. I made friends for life, from all over the world. I am really happy that I made a dream come true. Its something that happens once in a lifetime, so I am proud I could make it.

Ivan: "Between 26 June and 8 August I visited one of the most incredible countries in the world – Japan. I was there as an exchange student at the AFS Intercultural Programs. I met a lot of people there who impressed me with their cheerfulness. They were always ready to help if you need to.

However, the thing which really amazed me was the discipline of Japanese people and their diligence. I had the incredible opportunity to stay in Tokyo for six weeks. Tokyo is a unique city, full of beautiful places. I’d like to work and live there one day if I have the possibility to do so. Moreover, I had the chance to study Japanese language in a local school and to practice my Japanese with the local people. The Japanese language is not an easy one, especially its writing system, which is really complicated. I want to thank everyone who helped me to live through these unforgettable six weeks."

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