Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

At Nanzan, the number and variety of classes is excellent. No matter your level of Japanese or your field of interest, their is a course honed to your needs and wants. The teachers are all very knowledgeable, and the material is organized, throughout, and intellectually dynamic. The quality of school, faculty, and program are, to my knowledge, unmatched.

On-site administration of your program

The Center for Japanese Studies at Nanzan University is very organized and efficient. No matter the concern, there is a reasonable way to go about having it settled. Though, not necessarily specific to Nanzan, the system is a little complex and can become bothersome at times, and at other times a little strict. I believe these systems to be more a reflection of Japanese social custom than of the center itself and its staff.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Nanzan University and the dorms affiliated with it (in one of which I stayed) are located in the suburbs of Nagoya city. Overall, the area is very nice; not to far from the city, but not to close; a comfortable and convenient neighborhood. My dorm held about 12-16 foreign students (depending on semester) and 4 Japanese students attending Nanzan. Throughout the year, the dorm really became like family, and, above all else, I really enjoyed interacting with the Japanese students, many of whom became my good friends. Although, due to past complications, rules were fairly strict at the dorm as to guests. Nonetheless, the caretakers and residents were pleasant and easy to get along with.

In general, as you can probably surmise, Japanese food is very different from American food. Granted, their are a lot of similarities and even American chains. For me, as a vegetarian, it was particularity difficult to find things to eat-from this, however, I learned how to make a lot of things myself. You can either eat Japanese and Japanized American food, or you can pay (quite a lot) and get real American food. Quantity is rather small as expirations dates are generally short, and thus frequent trips to the grocery store are necessary. But, the store is very close and gives you a reason to get out of the dorm or to take a walk with friends. Recommendations for dining out include 'Mountain' Cafe, any ramen shop in Irinaka, Dewey's Grill and Cafe, and Le Blanc (french bakery). Japan has a variety of foods, drinks, and sweets, so be ready to try a lot of new things!

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Nanzan University offers quite a few cultural events and trips should you so choose. I myself traveled with friends or through recommendation. The university, especially the Center for Japanese studies, is very international and you will meet a lot of people from all over the world. Interacting with such people in a country where culture is already drastically different is quite an experience. Japan, and Nanzan, will definitely have you looking at the world and your home culture form a new perspective.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Japan as a nation, not to mention Nanzan, are very health conscientious and addressed any issue quickly and appropriately. There is an on-campus health services office, and a hospital literary a hundred yards away. I was there during the swine influenza outbreak; preventative and treatment measures were very good. Japan is known for is safety, and it shows. No matter where you go, you feel completely at ease. The atmosphere reverberates safety.

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

Due to the sheer intensity of in-class activities and out-of-class preparation, my Japanese improved very rapidly. I was introduced to a variety of global issues, and, in addition, the means by which to articulate my thoughts on such topics in a professional manner. Overall, a lot of information and means by which to organize and present it.