Attempt One
First was when I took and passed the Monbukagakusho scholarship exams and interviews. At that time, we were down to two students who were to be sent to Japan to study on a Government-sponsored scholarship. Because I felt so close to the goal at that time, I started watching anime series and even enrolled myself in a Japanese language course, which I attended every Saturday while waiting for the results of my "future in higher education".
The scholarship was granted to the other candidate. My first attempt at going to Japan had failed. By that time though, I was having so much fun learning Japanese, that I continued taking my lessons, even after I knew I was not going to be studying there anymore.
Because I continued my lessons, that led to my second attempt at going.
Attempt Two
Three months into my lessons, our school chose me to be one of three to represent it in a prestigious Cebu-wide Nihongo speech contest. I honestly didn't think how I could possibly get through that speech contest at that time. Nevertheless, I wrote my speech, asked help for its translation, and worked hard in between classes to be able to deliver that speech.
Come the day of the competition, I was probably the most surprised when I got first place, and given the chance to represent Cebu in the nationwide speech contest in Manila.
I really did go to Manila, and got to say my piece, in front of a huge crowd of spectators and a panel of native Japanese judges. This was the final round of the competition, where we had to compete against the winners of the other regions across the Philippines, and the prize was a trip to Japan where you would be delvering your winning speech for a final time.
I didn't make the cut, and that was my second failed attempt to visit the country.
Attempt Three
With no proper direction as a fresh graduate, I found out about a scholarship our university was offering for students who wanted to take up Masters Degree in their respective fields. I sent all my supporting documents and papers, and actually made it to the cut for the final interview for the scholarship grant.
Like the title of this post says, the third time was not my lucky try. I didn't make it, and I actually went along with my life and did not really think that much about the attempts I made. Until late last year.
Attempt Four (...the Charm)
Late last year, Cebu Pacific comes up with a promo fare that makes it actually possible to be able to go to Japan on a budget, starting with their budget airline. Without thinking, I booked myself a flight along with a group of friends to a weeklong vacation in Tokyo.
And yes, I really did make it this time <3 p="">
