Hey, I’m Sam! I’m from Austin, Texas, and am a fourth-year student at Texas State studying digital media and popular culture. I love to cook, write, spend time in the sun, play with my giant doggo Rocky, and TRAVEL. Most recently, I’ve visited Costa Rica, Puerto Rico and Los Angeles.
This study abroad trip made perfect sense for me, considering my studies, because Japan is arguably one of the most culturally rich and technologically innovative places in the world. I’ve also always wanted to study abroad and am graduating this December, so I’m ecstatic that this trip came along when it did.
My favorite thing to do while in another country is have at least one day just to explore and get lost in the streets of wherever I am. Traveling is so enriching, and I find you get the most out of it when you can pretend you’re not a tourist. While in Japan, I’m hoping to visit Mt. Fuji, at least one onsen (hot spring), as many art museums as possible and an ungodly amount of ramen restaurants. I’m also super excited to meet Japanese students and learn more about the way people live there.
I will be covering our group’s experience on the shinkansen (bullet train), from Tokyo to Kyoto. The bullet train travels at a speed of 200 mph, making it one of the fastest in the world.
Thanks for reading and welcome to the SJMC Japan blog!
