From the time the wheels touched down in Japan referred to by the Japanese as “The Land of The Rising Sun” or Source of Sun”, there was no easy description of the cultural differences experienced. Beginning with polite and respectful awareness shared by everyone to the carefully crafted delivery of food regardless of it being fast food or fine dining there was the feeling of a real sense of caring displayed.

The Japanese people have a sense of respect of their natural environment and a politeness for everything from architecture to food. One place where this was most evident was on trains. Whenever a conductor entered a car, he would enter and exit the car with a bow before attending to passengers. It would be unconscionable to the Japanese to be rude to a stranger or not to be properly dressed. Japan is an event or yet better described as an ultimate experience that is loaded with new discoveries and lessons in culture that has opened my eyes to awareness for self-improvement. It is a magical country that must be on every traveller’s bucket list. From busy cities to beautiful landscapes, Japan truly offers an enriching experience.
Some of the highlights included a visit to Mount Fuji, Hiroshima Peace memorial, historic landmarks, castles, samurai temples, Mt.Fuji and the Great Buddha of Kamakura standing more than 30 feet tall.

My last stop was Tokyo having the honor of being the world’s most populous metropolis. The home of the Imperial Palace encircled by a stone walled moat with numerous temples and shrines.
If you’re considering studying abroad, St. Petersburg College has truly mastered and made their trips worthwhile. There is always a skilled and knowledgeable professor to accompany you. Travel abroad will enhance your awareness of the world. It will give you a competitive edge in the job market, improve your language skills, and you will make lifelong connections. Getting out of your personal comfort zones will make you better! Go study abroad. This was my 4th trip, and I can’t wait for the next one!
– Sanober, SPC Japan Study Abroad Program, May 2024

素晴らしい旅 (A remarkable Journey)

Embarking on an adventure through Japan is an experience like no other. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, our trip was a blend of ancient traditions and modern marvels, giving us a comprehensive taste of what makes Japan so unique. Here’s a detailed look at my enriching journey. After arriving in Osaka, our first stop was at the magnificent Himeji Castle. Known as the largest castle in Japan, it boasts 83 buildings and provides a fascinating glimpse into Japan’s feudal past. There were no photos allowed but imagine the number of stairs we had to climb and let me tell you the steps were very steep. Later, we finished the day with our first authentic Japanese dinner which is called “Okonomiyaki”, and it was a very unique dish. The next day we began with an excursion to Miyajima Park, famously called the “Sacred Island.” There we saw the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, renowned for its floating torii gate.

Following this, an expert local guide took us through Hiroshima, focusing on the city’s poignant history with visits to the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, a UNESCO Heritage Site which was truly eye-opening and a remarkable site to see. Later, we experienced the thrill of the bullet train at insane speeds to Kyoto. While we were in Kyoto, we visited the impressive Nijo Castle, built from Japanese cypress, and the stunning Inari Taisha Shrine, and observe at the Golden Pavilion, a Zen temple adorned with gold leaf. Furthermore, we saw the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and spent half a day at Nara, a landmark famous for its bowing deer. Finally, we spent our last days in Tokyo visiting the Asakusa Kannon Temple, the city’s oldest. Later, we spent our day vising Shibuya for its famous crosswalk, and shopping areas. Altogether, this trip provided a perfect blend of historical exploration, cultural immersion, and modern-day marvels and each day offered something unique.
– Benjamin, SPC Japan Study Abroad Program, May 2024

Hello, my name is Whitney and I am an SPC student who explored Costa Rica with a study abroad program. Studying abroad in Costa Rica was a transformative experience that left a lasting impact on both my personal and professional growth. The natural beauty of Costa Rica is truly breathtaking, from lush rainforests to amazing indigenous tribes and diverse wildlife. Throughout my time there, I felt deeply connected with nature as I conducted data collection for my studies. Immersing myself in such a biodiverse environment not only enriched my academic research but also allowed me to appreciate the importance of conservation and sustainability, which was important to me as a Sustainability Management Major.

I was truly impressed by the coral reef beauty and biodiversity I encountered while snorkeling along the Pacific and Caribbean coasts as I had never seen so many different kinds of fish, turtles, and corals. Additionally, the indigenous BriBri tribe shared valuable knowledge about their natural medicines and provided an unforgettable experience by guiding us in the art of making chocolate from scratch. Whitewater rafting on the Pacuare River was both breathtaking and exhilarating, while our stay at the eco-lodge nestled in the heart of the rainforest allowed us to truly immerse ourselves in nature. The experience of studying bats at the biological center and witnessing the release of the leatherback turtles were truly unforgettable and hold a special place in my memories. Overall, studying abroad in Costa Rica was a life-changing experience that not only broadened my horizons but also deepened my appreciation for the natural world and other cultures. I highly recommend this experience to anyone looking to connect with nature and gain a new perspective on environmental issues.
– Whitney, SPC Costa Rica (Tropical Ecology) Study Abroad Program, May 2024