It’s kind of hard for me to fathom, but I’ll be graduating from PSU within the next year. I haven’t started job hunting yet, but I do intend to apply for the JET program in October (which is the earliest their applications become available). Once I complete this term, I also intend to sign up to take the JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) to assist with my resume. I believe the closest location to take that exam is in Seattle, so I’ve gotta make sure I’m well prepared for it when that time comes.

During my drive home yesterday, I was even thinking about what I was going to do with my car… Whether I would store it or just sell it before I potentially leave for Japan. So many doors are open to me at the moment, but as the time of my graduation draws closer many of those doors will shut,  so planning ahead almost seems necessary. I’m excited to start a new chapter of my life, but I also want to make sure that I enjoy everyday of my life right now because once it’s gone, it’s gone. I have a new-found appreciation for my friends because of how much they do for me. Whether they notice it or not, they are a big part of my life. Although the thought of graduating, and leaving the US for another country invigorates me, it’s joint with a bitterness as it causes me to worry about the relationships I have now.

In summary, however, I believe that life is about courage. It’s about being courageous enough to love ferociously, courageous enough to allow yourself to be vulnerable, and especially courageous enough to chase after your dreams and what truly brings joy and happiness to not-only your life, but to the lives of everyone around you as well. I will accomplish great things in this life, not because I believe it’s my destiny, but because I have the attitude and support that are necessary in order for me to achieve my goals.

“It’s funny about life: if you refuse to accept anything but the very best you will very often get it.” – William Somerset  Maugham