[WesternInk]

Hello, mousee09, I'm glad that I was able to find this forum! This is my first post on Japan Forum. =)

I assume that you will be attending Ritsumeikan University in September 2010? I am also going to Ritsumeikan! I think it will be an eventful year for all of us.

I am going for the whole year (ten months to be exact), and yes I have heard back from Ritsumeikan a few weeks ago! I did receive the Jasso scholarship, so I am super excited because I can save lots of money. That was my major concern about going on exchange! I haven't exactly figured out how much money I will bring, but I think I will have a clearer idea when the date gets closer, because I have a friend who's at Ritsumeikan doing the SKP right now, and she's giving me some details about everything lately.

I think for student visa, we have to wait for Ritsumeikan to send acceptance packages (I got my official letter already, just waiting for the Certificate of Enrollment!). As for packing, I am just making lists when something comes into mind - such as ordering contact lenses, getting moisturizer, deodorant, the basics, etc. And no, I probably won't be buying an electronic dictionary here. I've gotten some advice that if you are adamant on buying one, you should wait till you get to Japan! More choices, better prices, or so I've heard.