Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

An Unforgettable First Time Abroad Past Review

By (Rowan University) - abroad from 10/04/2020 to 12/21/2019 with

KCP International Japanese Language School: Tokyo - Intensive Japanese Language Immersion

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
The most valuable thing I learned while abroad was a closer look into other cultures. I was able to speak with people from Europe and Asia, because we all had a common tongue in Japanese. It was an amazing, unique experience that I'll likely never forget.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? None

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

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

KCP International is everything I was looking for. All of the staff members and teachers are very supportive and want to see you succeed. They also ensure that you are safe and enjoying your time abroad.

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)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? $50-60
Do you have any general money-saving tips for future study abroad participants? Try to shop at local grocery stores instead of buying overpriced food at the konbini every day

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

You'll use Japanese constantly at KCP

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Intermediate
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Intermediate
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? Intermediate Japanese II
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? Try to speak to your friends in only Japanese -- even if they speak your native language!

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
  • International Students
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • 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?
  • The teachers and staff
  • The other students at KCP
  • The country of Japan
* What could be improved?
  • More culture classes would always be welcome!
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish that I wasn't so anxious about being alone in a new country. As it turns out, Japan is a great place to explore and KCP makes the transition very comfortable and easy!

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 Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!