Wallet & Phone Talk

We sat at the table and had money talk.  KECLA suggested students bring $200-$300 for spending money.  She has a little over $300.  My suggestion was that she initially convert $200, then what's leftover if absolutely necessary.

Her wallet has all sorts of secret compartments, so she stashed dollar bills here and there.  We talked about her spending habits.  She is very generous, and if given the opportunity she will spend all of her money on her new friends.

"Naysia, this money is for you.  It's all about you.  Bring home something that cannot be found in America, something that will remind you of your trip and tug on your heart strings every time you see it.  And please try to find me a spoon rest to go on my wall."

We talked the importance of keeping the passport safe.  When the students land at Incheon, Dr. Moon will collect all passports and place them in a safe.  This was a relief to learn, I was worried about her carrying it around.  She does have a copy of it in her wallet.  When I told her the passport was her ticket to getting back home, her response was....

"So, if I don't have my passport I can't come home?"  Yep.
"AWESOME!  Technically in Korea I am 16.  I could stay there, get a job, and get my own apartment!!!!"
Ummm, I think not.

Millet to the rescue!

Next topic, the phone.  I have been trippin out, trying to figure out whether or not to send my T-Mobile phone with her.  The rates and likelihood of having an outrageous bill scared me. Millet is one of my fabulous team members and she came to the rescue!  The Philippines is her home country, and she has a phone specific for when she travels home.   She is letting Naysia borrow the phone.  Nays will have to purchase a pre-paid SIM card and should be able to call home for 3 reasons: Arrival, emergency, and departure.  I stressed the importance of keeping the phone safe, not letting anyone else use it, and calling me! 

We wrapped it up with a prayer.  We asked for self control, good spending habits, memorable items to bring home, phone etiquette and passport safety. 

It's so close and yet still so hard to believe.