The Bright Side

If I don't apply I won’t get it, and if I apply and don't make it, I still don't get it; there’s no worst case scenario! I've always known, you have to have self-confidence. But from the word go, I was mentally preparing myself for failure. I believe this makes me a stronger person as I was aware of the 50/50 chance. However, these thoughts were often crippling at times. Throughout the application experience, I didn’t completely submerge myself in the idea of going to Japan. This was like a self-protection, so I wouldn’t be hurt in the end. However, by having such supportive family and friends like mine, remaining composed became difficult. My mum would ask questions like “So Tina, when are you going to Japan?” while I was still being interviewed for the opportunity. But even with my eager loved ones, I kept my composure.

Now that you know something about me; Hello, my name is Tina McIntosh, I'm Tongan/Scottish and a year 13 at Aorere College. Fast forward to now. After a long process, I’ve kindly been selected as an exchange student to travel to Jishukan High School in Kanagawa, Japan. As I attend more Japanese classes I’m becoming more and more excited about the opportunity. As I mentioned in my application Japan is one of the highest academically succeeding countries in the world. So having the ability to travel to Japan and witness why this country succeeds so highly is exciting. I hope to observe and absorb these new principles and interweave this into my own life and into Aorere College when I return.

I did karate for 8 years. Due to my karate upbringing, I feel intact with the Japanese culture. However, I’m looking forward to learning more about the customs and traditions. These things I'll have the ability to teach my friends and family in New Zealand. Also, being able to live with a student will allow me to receive a more in-depth cultural and schooling experience. I’m excited to meet my new friend. Throughout these blogs, you'll have the opportunity to read along with my journey as an exchange student in Jiskukan high school, Kanagawa, Japan. I hope you're as excited as I am!

As a whole, I’m ready to meet new people and learn new things. I would like to thank Aorere College and Novotel for offering me this opportunity; I won’t let you down!

Arigatou gozaimashita
Tina McIntosh