Ai~Love Japan Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Depending on the classes you choose, the workload is not as intimidating as one may think of when they are familiar with the rigorous Japanese education system. It is very American-friendly, as there are a lot of exchange students, a large number of which hail from America and other English-speaking countries. In fact, faculty and the surrounding neighborhood recognize that we are not only students who come to learn, but also to explore the country as tourists with interest in the culture, and it makes studying and living in Japan much easier.

On-site administration of your program

Gustavus Adolphus College has a direct exchange with Kansai Gaidai University and a good relationship so that we come prepared. Of course, half the battle of getting to Japan is the paperwork. The other half are the adventures that ensue!

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Japan, especially a small town like Hirakata, is no doubt one of the safest places I have ever been, and it feels so comfortable like home. Hirakata's train station is right in the middle of greater Osaka (famous for its cuisine and wild night life) and the more traditional and scenic Kyoto, home of many temples and shrines. I personally did not have the best host family experience (possibly one of the worst) but I am still grateful I got to experience Japan.

Japanese food is healthy and delicious. Even the McDonald's in Japan tastes different, and their menus have special Japan-only items. It is very different from American food, but you will get used to it (the portion sizes, the natural and exotic flavors, etc). If you are going to Osaka, you MUST try Osaka's famous dishes, like okonomiyaki and takoyaki. The best restaurant is Kappazushi, if you are a fan of raw fish and pickled ginger. It's actually much more delicious than it sounds! You just have to be open to giving things a try!

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Japan has amazing festivals (matsuri) and events, and Kansai Gaidai arranges culture days and fun experiences, like the tour of Kyoto or "Let's make sushi!" days. Sometimes they will also have famous comedians, bands, or singers perform at the school! Of course, if you like night life, the heart of Osaka has its own brand of entertainment!

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

As I mentioned before, Japan is one of the safest countries in the world, but unfortunately the Fukushima radiation scare (although Kansai Gaidai is located a safe 400+ miles away) was responsible for my home university to forcibly withdraw its students studying in Japan. We were never in any danger, but we were forced to come home early due to the events resulting from the infamous March 11th 9.0 earthquake and tsunami, and also had issues transferring credits, let alone had to face the heartbreak of leaving Japan.

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

While living in the dorm, a lot of international students spoke English, but many Japanese friends can be made, and daily life alone (buying groceries, going to the train station, talking with Japanese friends, etc) makes for good practice of your language skills. It is said in Osaka that Japanese people are more open and friendly (and funny!) than those in Tokyo, so do not be afraid to practice speaking with them!

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• Host Family
• Dorm

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• Americans
• International Students
• Local Students
• Host Family