@The Leviathan i created an account just for you, especially since i don't think any other japanese applicants have posted on here - i did get the e-mail for selection as a semifinalist and that's what actually led me to this forum. i also plan on applying for gilman this year since i'll be studying abroad this fall, regardless.
i'm sorry to hear you didn't make it, i was imagining asking around for 'the leviathan' in the snowball's chance i make it in. unfortunately i have a stunning history of making it to the last cut...and getting cut >_> to illustrate, i just got my JLPT N3 results just yesterday and scored a 94...when a 95+ is needed to pass, otl. still, i have a tiny flicker of hope, at least.