Party! Finally.....

Well yesterday was my 3rd orientation of sorts, and yet again 2 hours worth of talking could be saved if they just left us with the handouts. We had talks from everyone from the local binmen to the police - did you know drugs are bad!? After 2 gruelling hours, me and Basim were still none the wiser to what the hell was going on with anything in an academic context. Near the end, we had to stand up when our country was called out, so people could make out who is who. Obviously the first guy up was an American, who then proceeded to punch the air in celebraion when a few people stood up. I believe I later overheard somebody talking to him to say "You were awesome man, represent!!" I gave him the classic "you should forfit your independence" look.

Having left the main hall, where over 300 had gathered, we moved to a smaller computer room to talk specifically about the exchange programs. What was said only confused me and Basim further, and when we enquired, they said "Oh, your Cardiff aren't you?" and rushed us downstairs to sit a test!!

It was only 4 pages of multiple choice, and it was going to only serve as a rough ability indicator, but we could have been in the other room beggining an after-party. Anyway I finished and scored a "3" which is intermediate level, which is what I was aiming for. I find out on Tuesday if Ive been accepted on the intensive course, which although more time at uni, will be better for my Japanese.

So we joined the party, and meet the friends of a girl called Jesse from Australia. She had also been sitting the exam and we quickly bonded in order to have something to do that evening. The party wasn't really a party, more of a gathering. But the food and beer on offer got the night off to a good start. One very strange thing of note is that one of the exchange students here, from Sheffield university I believe, Is from Bromley!! Not only that, but he knows people that live on my road!

Having left the party we headed to Sannomiya, Kobe's main nightlife area. Upon arrival we realised that everyone else has the same idea, and in total there was about 20 of us heading for a club. The group was indeed diverse, with England, Wales, Scotland, France, Germany, Portugal, Poland, Australia, America, Japan, Korea and China all represented. In total there are over 30 different nationalities of foreign students in Kobe. We drank the night away, very aware that the last train had come and gone. Along with Basim >.<
Sentanced to stay out till at least 6am, the group slowley wittled down to a more managable 13 and headed sterotypically to a Karaoke bar, where the drinks and bad renditions flowed. Notable contributions by myself would include Chop Suey by SOAD, Starlight by Muse and of course, Parklife by Blur.

At about 4.45am, I retreated to the other end of the room to get some sleep, and awoke at 6.am to go and catch the first train home. I got home at 7.05am, and in the cold light of morning I realised I had just had my first night with the people that can make or break my year here in Japan. Things are looking up.