I have recently returned to New Zealand from a University exchange to Kansai Gaidai in Osaka Japan, which was one of the most interesting and enjoyable experiences in my life. The exchange allowed me to further my study in Japanese while at the same time actively using language everyday, thus greatly improving my understanding about both the language and culture of Japan. I was also fortunate enough to be able to cross-credit all papers including those taught to me in English to my Bachelor of Management Studies at the University of Waikato.
The student life I experienced in Japan was, to say the least, ‘an adventure’. I made the decision to live in student dormitories along with other international students from around the world. The dorms were modern yet traditional, clean and more like a hotel than the idea a Kiwi might have of a strudent hostel. Setting up this type of accommodation was very straightforward and most of the organisation was completed before I left New Zealand so when I got there the room was ready and waiting for me.
I would recommend the dorms to future students. I made a lot of good friends through my dorm life and learned a lot not only about the Japanese culture but also about culture of my fellow students from the Americas, Asia, Europe and everywhere in between. The dorms were a very social environment and I personally had a fantastic time living in them. There were also Japanese students in the dorms with whom I could practice my Japanese, and they could help with homework!
Although I was busy with school work I managed to travel around and see a lot of Japan, particularly in and around the Kansai area. The Japanese culture is extraordinary. It will cause confusion and at time, perhaps, frustration. I think, however, that foreign students in Japan just have accept that the culture is vastly different to their own, accept this and try to fit in. If you take an open-minded approach to your stay you can get so much more out of your experience.
Although there are always language barriers, I found going to Japan with a limited understanding of the language a little daunting, yet when I got there I learned that it is possible to get by in Japan without actually knowing much Japanese at all. However, if you are serious about learning the language you will find that getting around will get easier day-by-day.
My tips to future students would be:
- Sort out as much as you can before you leave home, in terms of courses, accommodation, money, dates and documents. Although it may be a hassle it is well worth it because when you arrive you don’t want to be fussing around with these things. It saves stress, which is the last thing you need when you arrive in a foreign environment.
- Meet as many people as you can and make as many friends as possible. You will find that when you make friends you will have more confidence to explore, see and enjoy more.
- Have a good time. This kind of experience is unique so make the most of it and you will have heaps of good memories that will stay with you forever.
Finally, I would like to thank the Sasakawa Fellowship Fund for the scholarship which allowed me far more financial freedom, and also all the people who made this possible for me. Thankyou so much - it has definitely changed me for the better!
Photo: I’m on the left.
Photo: Me (front) with friends
