The Day Jasmin Became Friends with Yoseph

I wonder how many times I can call the Ethiopian Embassy in one day without them hating me. I've already lost count, but Yoseph still likes me! We're on a first name basis. Pretty baller.

Since I already had plans to head to Washington DC this weekend, I am extending my trip by one day so I can obtain my business Visa for Ethiopia. Since I don't have my passport with me at school, I have to head home tonight. This also allows me to head to AAA in the morning to get a recent color passport-sized photograph, which is also necessary for getting a business Visa. Other necessities for the Visa: letter from the organization in Ethiopia addressed to the Ethiopian Embassy stating the reason and duration for my stay, Visa application, and a $70 service fee. Yoseph has been very helpful in checking my letter to make sure it will suffice, and I am very thankful for the high level of service from the Ethiopian Embassy.

Don't worry, I have not lost sight of medical school. I turned in my primary application today for the University of Cincinnati for their Early Decision Program. Later I am going to head to the Quad to get a transcript sent to AMCAS and then tomorrow morning, while at home, I will head to UF to have that transcript sent as well. With that taken care of, my application will be complete and I will hopefully receive an interview for September 11. Post-interview = trip to Ethiopia!!!

The next order of business is vaccinations and medications. Mom is working with my physician back home to get everything set up. Hopefully the week I get back from school I will be able to get the regimen of shots, but we shall see. I also have to figure out how health insurance will work for the next year. I am covered under my parents' insurance until I am 25, but I have to be enrolled as a full-time student. As I will not be a full-time student in the next 12 months, I need to find other means of health insurance. Any suggestions?

Life is going so well right now! I cannot believe I am being given this opportunity to serve the Faith, travel the world, and learn more about myself. It is absolutely wonderful.