The general plan was already in the works by August, but without an official approval from the Ambassador, we were told not to spread rumors about this event. I think it was early October when the GP office started advertising the big event and recruited students to apply and participate. Although I had very poor knowledge of diplomacy, I was determined not to miss this precious opportunity to meet someone who you usually only see in picture or hear his remarks in the newspaper. Then, a few days before the event, there was another call to all GP members that two students were needed as representatives. Of course, I applied for this role, too, but little did I expect to be lucky enough to actually get the job. The night before the big day, I was informed that I won the lottery and was chosen as one of the representatives. Being as excited as could be, I searched though my closet to dig up a suitable outfit for the special occasion. On the actual day: November 5th, my heart was pounding fast from the moment I woke up. As much as I was excited to meet the ambassador, I was also very nervous about fulfilling my duty. It was nothing difficult, just handing him a Nanzan towel as a gift, holding it up for the audience to see. But what if I tripped going up the stage? What happens if I accidentally dropped it, should I just pick it up from the floor casually and hand it to him anyway? Wouldn't that be sort of rude? I had no idea what might happen. It took place during 4rd period. I was given a ribbon to put on my chest, which proved that I was allowed to approach the Ambassador. The lecture turned out to be more of a discussion because Ambassador Roos preferred that the participants ask questions one at a time so he could answer each, mostly related to nuclear disarmament, in great depth. I was hoping to ask a question of my own, but I realized I needed to study more before I could even come up with one. The Q&A session lasted about an hour or so, and it was finally time for my representative’s role. My partner was a junior, who I always admired a lot. She was kind to me on that day, too, reassured me that everything was going to be fine. When we saw the sign that the representatives were to make their moves, I followed my partner to the stage. As I recall the scene now, it must have been only about 3 minutes, but it felt much longer at the time. He first received the flowers from my partner and said some joke, then I unfolded the towel I was holding tightly and he took a good look at it. By then my nerves were mostly gone and was able to enjoy the atmosphere. We all took many pictures with Mr. Roos and his friendliness almost made me forget he was in such a high position. I have had many unforgettable, great moments at Nanzan, but this was surely one of the best ones ever!

by Rina M