Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

AIU is a wonderful place to experience international culture. Past Review

By (English , Asian Studies, St. Mary's College of Maryland) - abroad from 08/23/2012 to 12/19/2012 with

Akita International University: Akita - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned a lot about being a global citizen. Since AIU has such a large international student population, you end up learning a lot about how the world works, and not just about Japan. Going to AIU also allowed me to learn how to be more responsible and participate in the community. The program helped me grow a lot, so it was definitely worthwhile!

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 1 month - 6 months

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The classes (other than the language classes) were not very rigorous. However, you get a lot of opportunities to go out and experience Japanese society and culture. Also, the language classes are really good!

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The administration was always up to helping out the foreign students. They were really helpful.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived in Komachi Dormitory and I was really satisfied with it! The free utilities were great and the dorm is right next to cafeteria!

* Food:

The food is not the best. After a couple weeks, you will probably become tired of it. When I studied at AIU, I dropped the meal plan and I was glad I did! You save money and get more choices on what you want to eat.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

If you participate in the COS activities, there will be many opportunities to be a part of the Akita community and interact with local people.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

The health center will periodically send out emails, but they would be completely in Japanese. Also, the nurse is not always there (nor does she speak English), so you will probably have to end up taking care of yourself.

* Safety:

Although there are warnings about bear attacks, as long as you don't go into the woods at night alone, you should be very safe.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

Finances

* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

I did not run out of money, but I know plenty of others did. Living Japan is expensive, so you have to be prepared. There are also reimbursements at the end of the semester, so that may help you out.

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $40
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Use the pink prepaid meal plan card. Also, if you can avoid eating breakfast at the cafeteria, you can buy breakfast foods at the grocery store, which would also save you money. Drop the meal plan if you can.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

Even though we were in 101, we were encouraged to speak as much Japanese as we could.

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? None
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Beginner
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? I had not completed any language courses before going.
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Repetition, especially when it comes to learning hiragana and katakana. Just writing over and over helps. Also, practicing dialogue helps with speaking.

Direct Enrollment/Exchange

* Did you study abroad through an exchange program or did you directly enroll in the foreign university? Exchange

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
  • Hostel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students
  • Americans
  • International Students
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with?

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Having a lot of international students to learn from.
  • Being able to participate in activities which expose you to Japanese culture.
  • Having experiences that help you grow as a person.
* What could be improved?
  • Quality of classes that are not the language classes.
  • More international student/Japanese student integration.
  • Having more opportunities to explore other areas of Japan.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? More Japanese. I think the experience would have been even better if I had a greater grasp on the languages before going.

Reasons For Studying Abroad

To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you.
The Networker
An active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume.