It was in the fall semester of 2024. I was wandering through the floors of Old Main where I first noticed a study abroad flyer highlighting the upcoming SJMC Japan 2025 program. I decided to take a photo of the flyer not knowing I would eventually end up joining the program at the start of 2025.
I was initially interested in the idea of not only having the opportunity to get to travel to Japan but also earn six-credit hours for taking two classes within my major. The classes themselves stood out to me since they revolved around creating/documenting video content along with creating blog posts and feature writing.
While I was excited, I was also hesitant at the idea of traveling overseas for the first time and adjusting to the challenges of adapting to a fast-paced learning environment. However, I knew this could be a once-in-a-lifetime travel opportunity, which ultimately motivated me to take the challenge of stepping outside my comfort zone and joining the SJMC Japan program.
When it was time to embark, I felt a sense of growing enthusiasm as I had gotten the chance to meet my fellow classmates and professors and get a grasp of the work I would do while aboard. The months prior to the trip helped me prepare and know a bit more about what I should expect while in Japan.
Upon arriving in Toky, for the first time, I was amazed by how clean and organized the city appeared. Yet this led to one of the first challenges of learning how to get around the city. Navigating the city’s complex train system felt overwhelming at first, but over time I slowly began to adapt to its fast-paced environment.
I really enjoyed getting to visit many Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines while traveling in Japan, which I found peaceful and helped me unwind from the bustling city life. Among the temples, I found the day trip to Enoshima Island and Kotoku-in to be one of the most memorable for me. I enjoyed viewing the scenic landscapes that overlooked the beach and walking through the gardens of Hase-Dera Temple. Visiting the Great Buddha that stands over 40 feet tall in Kotoku-in, I found it to also be an insightful and memorable experience.
My time in Hiroshima taught me the historical significance of Japan’s history. Visiting Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum was an emotional and mournful experience. I remember standing in front of the preserved ruins of the Atomic Bomb Dome and feeling the heavy energy of the building. It was a bit overwhelming, but at the same time, I found the experience interesting and important to learn about what really happened to the people of Hiroshima and how its impact is still felt today 80 years later.
When we arrived in Kyoto, I noticed the city had a different vibe compared to Hiroshima and Tokyo. The city’s narrow streets and traditional Japanese architectural style created a charming atmosphere. One memorable adventure I had was ascending Mount Inari at Fushimi Inari with the goal of reaching Ichinomine Shrine at the summit. Since I hadn’t been able to finish my previous climb at Mount Misen on Miyajima Island in Hiroshima, I felt even more determined to reach the top. Although the way up was challenging, making it all the way to top proved to be satisfying. This experience made me reflect on the value of persistence and the reward that comes from seeing something through to the end.
My time in Japan was a great learning experience. On a personal level I felt as if the trip helped me step further outside my comfort zone, forcing me to adapt to a different culture and country. Additionally, the fast-paced learning environment helped me quickly learn and adapt. Every day was a new experience that provided learning opportunities for me to grow from.
About The Author
