Grace is studying a Bachelor of Design (Animation and Interactive Media) and went on exchange to Sophia University in Japan. She answered some questions for us:
Why did you go?
I wanted to immerse myself in the culture, to learn Japanese in its native country, and experience university life in Japan.
Favourite dish or meal on your experience?
Yakiniku! Grilled meat, particularly Japanese beef, over charcoal is always delicious on cold winter days, especially when enjoying it with friends.
What was your favourite event/weekend trip or activity you participated in?
I travelled to Nikko, a town in the middle of Japan, for a day trip with a friend I had met in the program. We spent the day touring the various historical landmarks, and simply explored its serene, snow-laden mountainside scenery. We also got to experience the local food specialities of Nikko.
Would you like to return to the country or countries you spent your global experience in? Why?
I would return to Japan in a heartbeat. This experience gave me such a fresh perspective on life, culture, and people. It also helped to give me the confidence to travel alone in a foreign country despite knowing very little of the language. I would love to go back and explore more of Japan, meet more people, and take on even more experiences.
Any advice for future students?
If you're considering taking a global experience, and if you're able to, just do it. You will have life-changing experiences overseas, living in amongst a new and different culture, and meet friends you'd never thought to have met from all over the world! You won't regret it. Do it! Sophia University gives great classes, but do not bombard you with homework, giving you time to travel and socialise as well which is amazing! They have many activities that you can participate in such as Taiko drumming experiences, and chances to interact with the local students there too.
Describe your experience in three words:
Unexpected, life-changing, adventure.
