The first steps toward going to the States were taken back in the distant autumn, after colorful stories from friends. Back then, I learned a little about the program and, as often happens, 'cooled off,' putting all the gathered information on the back burner. In mid-March, my friend Olya asked if I was going to the States; it was her second trip, she already had the visa in her passport, and she just asked out of curiosity, knowing I had planned to go too. After coming up with a couple of excuses for my laziness, I ended the conversation.

But the thought wouldn't go away: 'Maybe I should try after all?' Sitting down with my girlfriend Yulia and weighing all the pros and cons, we decided 'Yes.' Over the next few days, we began to study all the questions in detail, but we kept running into the main problem at the time: the lack of a job. It was the end of March, and there were practically no chances of finding one on our own – we backed out, I guess it wasn't meant to be. The next day, the first question we asked each other was: 'Maybe we should try after all?' With renewed vigor, we started searching... and we found one! The main criterion was working in the same city, which caused huge difficulties, but we overcame them. That's it – the first step, it's the hardest one =)

We went to the embassy on May 28th; it was the last batch of students. The only thought in my head was: 'What if they approve me but not her, or vice versa?' Killer scenarios... A few sleepless nights beforehand, cramming questions and answers. When I talked to the consul, none of that helped; everything flew out of my head. A simple student stood before the American, stumbling over answers, asking for clarification, and feeling nervous. But he was favorable toward me. A few people later, Yulia went in; by that time, I couldn't find a place for myself outside, joy mixed with anxiety. BUT EVERYTHING TURNED OUT PERFECTLY. We both got our visas! The second victory under the motto 'Never give up!' – actually, this phrase should accompany us through life; I was convinced of this dozens of times in America.

Then there was the early exam session, after which I could have written a book titled 'Passing Exams in 4 Days.' =) At my university, rescheduling is very difficult; you need to find a valid reason supported by a document, and God forbid you say you're going to America. There are enough narrow-minded people who are ready to put spokes in your wheels, showing their pettiness; let's leave that on their conscience. I managed to do it, although I'm not an honors student; yes, I had to study, yes, I had to run around. Much becomes possible if you want it badly, and if you want it very badly – everything is possible!

I packed my suitcases in a few hours, minimal belongings. A small piece of advice for beginners: take the most practical and comfortable footwear; in my case, it was sneakers and sandals. I owe a lot to the former, by the way; without them, I wouldn't have lasted at work.

June 21st. Departure.