When I was a child, I always enjoyed watching Japanese anime. Since then, the connection between Japan and me has begun. When I was in junior high school, I fell in love with Japanese literature. Over time, I became fascinated by novels, essays and other books written with people's feelings. Through Japanese novels, I became fascinated by various aspects of Japan and became more and more fascinated by this country. However, I believe that it is only by reading works written in the original Japanese that we can realize the author's thoughts. Therefore, I started to learn Japanese on my own. The more I studied Japanese, the more interested I became in the language. After passing the university entrance exam, I took to heart the idea that my hobby is to be the best teacher and chose Japanese as my specialization. As long as I am learning Japanese, I want to go to Japan and make full use of what I have studied so far.
This time, I have a precious opportunity to study in Japan. For the sake of those who support me and for my own sake, I will cherish this opportunity and try to gain a deeper understanding of the Japanese language and culture. I would also like to go on to graduate school after returning to my home country. I intend to study hard in Japanese language and culture, acquire specialized knowledge in Japanese language education, and aspire to become a full-fledged Japanese language teacher in the future.
Studying in Japan has been an interesting and transformative experience that has shaped my life over the past 8 months. This experience has been a tapestry woven with friendship, exotic culture, academic growth and personal development.
One of the most remarkable aspects of my time in Japan is that I made many new friends. Overcoming the language barriers, I have connected deeply with both Japanese and international students from all over the world. Thanks to them, I have broadened my horizon which allowing me to appreciate different cultures and traditions.
The support and warmth extended by my teachers and friendship family have been invaluable. Their kindness and welcoming demeanor have contributed me significantly to my academic and personal growth. Without their guidance and help, my transition would not have gone so smoothly.
In Hyogo University of Teacher Education, I am studying about Japanese literature, linguistics, and the most importantly, how to be a teacher. I have learned a lot and gained invaluable insights and skills. I have also been to local primary school to support foreign students. Knowledge starts with practice. Those cherish experience will help me to get closer to my dream —— be a Japanese teacher in my hometown.
On the days when I wasn't in class, I have been to many renowned landmarks and historical sites, tasted the local cuisine, and immersed myself in the unique culture. I love the skyscrapers of Tokyo, the historical castle of Osaka, the ancient temples and the red leaves of Kyoto, and the blue waves and yellow sand of Tottori. The cultural richness and beauty of Japan have captivated my heart, and I find myself cherishing every moment spent in this remarkable country.
Recently, I accomplished a significant milestone by completing the Japanese Language Proficiency Test N1 on December 3rd. This achievement serves as a testament to my dedication and hard work in mastering the Japanese language. It is an end, but also a beginning, a beginning of a brand new period of my life.
During these 8 months, I have created many wonderful memories. I am profoundly thankful for the friendships, guidance, and opportunities that have enriched my life.
A year has passed in the blink of an eye. Looking back, I had a wonderful year studying abroad. I can truly say from the bottom of my heart that it was a life that I enjoyed.
Throughout the year, my Japanese language skills improved significantly. By being in a Japanese language environment, I learned a lot from the language environment around me and my listening and speaking skills improved dramatically. In addition, my Japanese reading and writing skills also improved as I worked on class assignments. Thanks to this, I’m glad that I passed the Japanese Language Proficiency Test Level 1 .
In classes, I studied not only Japanese literature and linguistics, but also Japanese language education and national Japanese education. I had the opportunity to visit primary schools, create teaching plans, and conduct teaching activities myself, which was a valuable experience. By experiencing the education field during my practical training, I was able to gain a lot of experience and deepen my knowledge of the Japanese language of the Japanese language as an educator, not just as a student. Through the class on Chinese literature and reading literature, I learned about the linguistic and cultural differences and connections between China and Japan, and recognized that there is a way to decipher Chinese poetry in this way. It was very interesting.
On days without classes, I participated in volunteer activities, spent time with friends I made in Japan, and worked part-time in supermarkets, acquiring more than I could from books. It is a priceless treasure for my personal growth. 10th February was also 1st January, the Chinese New Year, and my first Chinese New Year in Japan. To celebrate the Chinese New Year, I gathered the international students together for a New Year's Eve dinner and we took a commemorative photo. Even though we will all be far away from each other in the future, I will cherish this friendship and photo forever.
I was anxious about studying abroad alone in a foreign country for the first time, but the teachers at school, my Friendship Family, friends, and seniors at my part-time job were all very kind and helpful. As time passed, I gradually became accustomed to life in Japan and grew to love it. I feel incredibly grateful to the people who gave me this invaluable opportunity and took care of me.
Personally, I would like to return to Japan after graduation and continue my studies at a Japanese graduate school. I look forward to setting foot in this country once again and embarking on a journey toward my dreams. See you again.