I was motivated to take this program due to opportunities which is presented are very important in order to acquire necessary skills to become an interpreter. The chance of constantly be able to engage in international exchanges is what pique me the most to participate in this study abroad program.

I'm aiming to acquire the skills essential for becoming a professional interpreter. The field of tourism and international relations highly encourages the usage of professional communication skills with prerequisite of the knowledge of many different language and culture. Moreover, it's a good opportunity to learn how to act and behave with a professional mindset in mind. This program presents a good environment and opportunities to further develop the knowledge and skills needed for my future career.

Through this study abroad program, I aim to improve my proficiency in English and Japanese on professional level and further studying business etiquette, intercultural knowledge, and communication skills. By interacting with people coming from many cultural backgrounds and perspectives, I hope to further nurture my worldview and adaptability to a profession that highly encourages the need of international communication.

Thankfully, this exchange program has been going for over four months without much problem. I’ve grown accustomed to student life in Japan.

During this spring semester, I took mainly language-focused subjects such as Business Japanese and Academic Japanese. Through these classes, I was able to better understand on how to handle Japanese language and distinguish the usage in different styles and contexts. I also took some courses that helped me improve my English skills, which I hope will be useful for my upcoming TOEIC test.

Although I was disappointed that the “Introduction to Interpreting” summer intensive course was cancelled, I would like to make use of this summer break instead to look for activities where I can use both English and Japanese altogether. Whether it’s through volunteer work or part-time jobs, I’d love to join any activity where I can gain interpreting experience.

Next, I’d like to talk about my experience outside of studying. At the beginning of spring, I took part in a volunteer activity where I helped carry a mikoshi (portable shrine) at the Ikuta Festival in Kobe. It was a valuable experience that allowed me to engage with Japanese culture directly, and I did my best until the end of the festival. Personally, I felt a strong connection to the spirit of the Japanese people and their devotion to the festival culture. It was truly a beautiful experience.

As for my plans for the upcoming fall semester, I’d like to take the “Chinese I” and “Korean I“courses. Of course, I will continue studying English, but since I also have a strong interest in learning many languages and hope to become an interpreter someday. I believe the prospect of learning other languages will surely come in handy in the future.