I have always believed that some of life’s greatest lessons are learned beyond the walls of a classroom. To me, there is no better way to broaden your perspective than by immersing yourself in a new culture while learning alongside it.
Studying abroad offers a unique opportunity to combine academics with cultural exploration, transforming each day into both a lesson and an adventure. My parents strongly encouraged me to pursue this experience, especially because my dad had the opportunity to live abroad in Japan for an entire year. He often spoke about how deeply the experience shaped his perspective on life, inspiring my own dream of studying abroad one day.
Because of his stories, I had always hoped to find a program that would spark my interest and encourage me to take that leap. Around mid-November, that opportunity appeared in the form of a flyer hanging in Old Main. For two weeks, I passed the same flyer every day.
At first, I simply glanced at it, but the more I saw it, the more impossible it became to ignore. When I finally stopped to take a closer look and realized it was a study abroad trip to Japan, it felt like more than a coincidence—it felt like a sign. In many ways, I felt as though I was following in my dad’s footsteps while preparing to create an experience entirely my own.
My time in Japan was both incredible and challenging. While I anticipated adventure, culture and unforgettable experiences, I quickly learned that travel does not always go according to plan.
On my very first night, I experienced some abnormal symptoms and had to visit a doctor. Being in a completely unfamiliar city while dealing with a health concern was overwhelming and emotional. I was far from home and unsure of what to do. Thankfully, my professors and our guide, Michio-san, stepped in to help me navigate the situation. Their support and kindness meant more to me than they will ever know. Looking back, that experience reminded me that even when I feel alone, there are people willing to help when I need it most.
The unexpected challenges continued when a typhoon rolled into Tokyo on our first full day. As a result, our itinerary had to change. Initially, I was disappointed that some of the activities we had looked forward to would no longer happen as planned.
However, I quickly realized that travel requires flexibility. Instead of focusing on what we were missing, I chose to embrace the unexpected and view the day as an opportunity to explore at a slower pace. That mindset shift became one of the most valuable lessons of the trip. Some of my favorite memories came from moments that were never part of the original plan.
Once our schedule settled, every day seemed to bring a new adventure. Among the many places we visited, three stood out to me the most: Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Miyajima Island and Hase-dera Temple. While each destination was unique, they all shared something I deeply appreciated—their connection to nature and the sense of peace they inspired.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto was particularly memorable. The temple’s massive wooden structures and rich history made it unlike anything I had ever seen before. Standing on the famous wooden stage and looking out across the city was breathtaking.
One experience that especially stood out was participating in the tradition at the Otowa Waterfall. Visitors can drink from one of three streams of water, each believed to bring a different blessing. Being able to take part in such a meaningful tradition made the visit feel more personal and memorable. It was a beautiful way to connect with the temple’s history while creating a memory of my own.
Miyajima Island offered a completely different experience, yet it was equally unforgettable. The island was filled with lush scenery, historic shrines and temples, friendly deer and charming shops. What I loved most was simply exploring. Whether I was wandering through quiet pathways, visiting sacred sites or taking in the views of the surrounding landscape, there was always something new to discover. The island had a peaceful atmosphere that encouraged me to slow down and appreciate my surroundings. It felt like stepping into a completely different world, one where nature and history existed in perfect harmony.
Hase-dera Temple was another highlight of the trip. Known for its beautiful gardens, Buddhist history and stunning views, it quickly became one of my favorite places in Japan. The greenery surrounding the temple was unlike anything I had ever experienced. Every path seemed to reveal a new variety of plants, flowers and wildlife. As I walked through the grounds, I felt completely immersed in nature. There was a sense of calm and stillness that is difficult to describe. For a moment, all the stress and distractions of daily life disappeared, allowing me to be fully present. It was one of the few times in my life when I felt completely at peace.
Beyond the incredible places we visited, the trip taught me valuable lessons on a personal, spiritual,and professional level. Personally, I gained a greater sense of independence. Whether I was navigating public transportation, finding my way through unfamiliar streets or adapting to unexpected situations, I learned to trust myself more. There were moments when I felt lost, overwhelmed or uncertain, but each challenge helped me grow more confident in my ability to problem-solve and adapt.
Academically, the trip allowed me to see firsthand many of the concepts we discuss in journalism and digital media courses. Being immersed in a foreign culture challenged me to observe stories from different perspectives and think critically about how culture influences communication. Visiting historical temples, shrines and cities provided context that cannot be fully understood through textbooks or classroom discussions alone.
As a content creator, I learned how to tell stories in unfamiliar environments while remaining respectful of local customs and traditions. Looking back at my work, I am proud of what I accomplished. The experience reinforced my passion for digital media and reminded me why I love creating content in the first place. It also showed me how much potential I still have to grow.
Emotionally, the trip pushed me outside of my comfort zone. Balancing long days, early mornings, demanding assignments and the excitement of exploring a new country was not always easy. There were times when I felt exhausted and stretched thin. However, those moments taught me the importance of resilience.
I learned how to manage my emotions, remain focused under pressure and appreciate every experience rather than dwelling on temporary frustrations. More importantly, I learned not to take opportunities for granted. Every day brought a new lesson, a new challenge or a new memory that I knew I would carry with me long after returning home.
Overall, Japan challenged me in ways I never expected. It taught me that I am capable of handling difficult situations, adapting to change and finding joy even when things do not go according to plan.
The greatest gift Japan gave me was the ability to embrace uncertainty. I learned that growth often happens when we step outside of our comfort zones and allow ourselves to experience the unfamiliar.
As I look toward the future, I carry these lessons with me. While I am excited about my career goals and confident in my abilities as a creator, I am also open to whatever opportunities come my way. This trip taught me that some of life’s greatest experiences are the ones we never planned for. Regardless of where my career leads, I know I have developed the resilience, adaptability, and confidence needed to face whatever comes next. Those qualities are worth far more than any paycheck.
Japan was more than just a study abroad experience—it was a journey of personal growth, self-discovery and unforgettable memories. For that, I will forever be grateful.
Kanpai to a life-changing adventure and to the exciting future that lies ahead!
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