Advance research on Japanese culture, etiquette, and custom helps add dimension to the study abroad experience in Japan.
– Patrick Cochran, SPC Student, Japan Program, May 2019
Before going to Japan for my study abroad program with SPC, I did a lot of research about Japanese culture and the country overall. Since this was going to be my first time out of the United States, I wanted to be as well prepared as possible. After applying for the study abroad program and being accepted, I thought about the trip every day leading up to our departure. The closer the trip got, the more my excitement and anticipation grew.
Within a week of departure, I especially could not stop thinking about the trip. The night before our flight, I stayed up all night so I would be able to sleep more on the plane and get acclimated to Japan’s time zone before even getting there.
After our long journey to Japan, we met our tour guide and boarded the bus to go to our hotel in a district of Tokyo called Shinjuku. At this point, I started to develop a rapport with my classmates. I was glad I got the chance to get to know people because I did not know anyone prior to the trip, and it made me more comfortable.
The trip itinerary was packed, but it was well worth it. For me, some of the highlights of the trip were exploring the different districts of Tokyo, eating the delicious range of foods, and venturing outside of Tokyo’s busyness to see Mount Fuji. Even after our daily planned activities were over, everyone still wanted to occupy their time with more things to do. The days started very early and ended late. Having time to venture around Tokyo in our own groups and do what we wanted was fun and added to the learning experience.
Overall, this study abroad trip to Japan was incredible, and it was a great experience to be involved in another culture that is so different from the USA. Every day was filled with enjoyment that came with new lessons, too. I was glad I did an abundant amount of research before the trip because it helped me know plenty about Japan’s culture, etiquette, and customs.
I would encourage everyone to participate in a study abroad program because you get to learn about the world, the people around you, and yourself. It was an experience that I will remember and cherish for the rest of my life, and I grew as an individual in a way that I did not think I would.
– Patrick Cochran, SPC Student, Japan Program, May 2019
Thank you for sharing Patrick!
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