When I first applied for the SJMC Japan study abroad program, I knew it would be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
As a transfer student and student-athlete, studying abroad was something I had always wanted to do but never had the chance to experience at my previous university, where opportunities like this were not available for athletes.
Coming to Texas State University opened doors that I had not imagined possible, and the opportunity to travel to Japan while earning credit toward my degree immediately caught my attention. As a digital media innovation major, I was excited to experience a country known for blending ancient traditions with cutting edge technology. I wanted to learn more about Japanese culture, explore places I had only seen online and gain a global perspective that would help me grow both personally and professionally. More than anything, I looked forward to stepping outside of my comfort zone and experiencing a completely different way of life.
Before traveling to Japan, I expected to see beautiful temples, busy cities and famous landmarks. While those experiences certainly lived up to my expectations, what surprised me most were the people I met and the lessons I learned through everyday interactions. Throughout the program, I discovered that some of the most meaningful experiences happened during conversations, cultural exchanges and moments that were not part of the original itinerary.
One of the most memorable experiences was visiting Meiji Jingu Shrine in Tokyo. Walking through the peaceful forest in the middle of one of the world’s largest cities showed me how Japan values preserving its history while continuing to move forward. Learning about Shinto traditions, participating in purification rituals and seeing centuries-old cultural practices firsthand helped me better understand the importance of respecting tradition.
Later in the trip visiting Shibuya Crossing and hearing from professionals at Yuri Group highlighted Japan’s innovative side. As someone studying digital media, I found it fascinating to learn about the future of journalism, artificial intelligence and technology in Japan.
Another experience that stood out was visiting Doshisha Women’s College in Kyoto and participating in a snack exchange with Japanese students. What started as a simple conversation about favorite foods quickly turned into discussions about culture, family traditions and student life. Although we came from different countries and backgrounds, I realized how much we had in common. Sharing snacks, stories and laughter helped break down barriers and reminded me that meaningful connections can happen anywhere. This experience taught me the value of cultural exchange and the importance of approaching new situations with curiosity and an open mind.
Outside of the scheduled activities, I also enjoyed exploring Japan independently. One of my favorite personal experiences was getting my nails done by a local artist in Shibuya. While it may seem like a small activity, it gave me insight into Japanese entrepreneurship, customer service and creativity. I originally found the artist through social media, booked the appointment online and used digital tools to navigate the city. As a digital media innovation major, I was able to see firsthand how technology and social media connect businesses with customers around the world. It was a real-world example of concepts I have studied in the classroom.
The program also taught me important personal lessons. Traveling internationally required me to be adaptable, independent and willing to embrace unfamiliar situations. Whether navigating train stations, communicating across language barriers or trying new foods, I learned to become more confident in my ability to handle challenges. I realized that growth often comes from being uncomfortable and open to new experiences.
Academically, the trip strengthened my understanding of how culture influences communication, media and technology. Throughout the program, I saw countless examples of how digital platforms shape businesses, tourism and daily life in Japan. From local entrepreneurs using social media to reach global audiences to discussions about the future of journalism and artificial intelligence, I gained valuable insights that directly relate to my field of study. The experience reinforced my interest in digital media and showed me the importance of understanding diverse audiences in an increasingly connected world.
Looking back, this program meant much more to me than simply traveling abroad. It challenged me to see the world from a different perspective and helped me appreciate cultures outside of my own. It allowed me to build friendships, create unforgettable memories and gain experiences that cannot be learned from a textbook.
As I continue my education and prepare for my future career, I believe this experience will have a lasting impact. It has strengthened my confidence, expanded my worldview and reminded me of the power of communication to connect people across cultures. Whether I pursue a career in digital media, marketing or content creation, the lessons I learned in Japan will help me approach my work with greater creativity, cultural awareness and understanding.
Japan showed me that innovation and tradition do not have to compete with one another—they can exist side by side. More importantly, it showed me that some of the most valuable lessons come from stepping outside of what is familiar and embracing new experiences. This journey was not only an opportunity to learn about Japan, but also an opportunity to learn more about myself.
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