Blessed. A word to describe someone who has given an opportunity to study abroad. It’s always a dream to people who wants to grow more in different aspects like bringing out their independent nature, become explorers of their new nation and really discover the curiosity and excitement that they harbour. From these amazing experiences and learning, a lot of realization awaits; like the chance to discover different styles of education, completely immerse oneself in a new language, and there is no better way to learn than to dive right in. Lastly, studying abroad could possibly a great channel to experience and appreciate the nation’s people, history, customs, traditions, culture, food and social atmosphere that will be a big help for me to understand cultural diversity.

My first impression when I came to Japan was my journey will not be easy because everything was new like the lifestyle, food, culture and language. At that moment I thought I cannot make it but I always keep in mind that trying is the only way to achieve one's goal.
I have a lot and the best experiences ever in my stay in Japan. First, is to learn from the best mentor from KIU, I've been blessed by their effort and kindness by teaching me Japanese Language wholeheartedly. Second, I have experienced also to work at Arima onsen, I met different nationalities like Nepalese, Vietnamese, Chinese, Korean, Americans, and some traditional Japanese. From there, I discover a lot of things that is mostly related to my part time job. Third, all the cultural trips are really worth it. Touring around Kansai area is a big part of my learning and understanding process to Japan. There are difficulties sometimes because of language barrier but because Asian nations countries are mostly similar to each other, I can feel that I am not far away from home.
Studying abroad is really an opportunity to grow, to learn more and be confident.
The hardest thing I experienced was to live alone and do everything by myself. It is my first time to be separated from my big family for that long period of time, sometimes I cry hard and I can't focus on my studies. Little did I know, I started to fall in love everything about Japan. The busyness of the people reminds me to concentrate and focus to my goals. The scenery and comfortable life, the good food and the kind people. The convenience and safe place are the reasons why I overcome my worries. I’m so thankful and blessed to be given a chance as exchange student, it’s both challenging and enjoyable but the experience is really worth it. Time flies so fast, I’m now counting my remaining months, that's why I want to make the most out of my days, enjoy my studies and spend more time with the best people I have.

Studying abroad is really challenging and at the same time enjoyable. One factor is the different culture and language. Culture reflects also the society which means the people and its relationship. At first, I was hesitant to accept the offer to be the representative of TUA for HUMAP scholarship maybe because I use to live only in my comfort zone. Realizing the things and opportunities knocking my door, thanks to my friends and colleagues too for helping me see the blessings.

The first challenge was the language itself. Thanks to some KIU staffs, teachers and classmates who speak English and helped me a lot in my journey. When the classes begin, it was all smooth sailing experiences. I am not saying Japanese classes are easy but I really enjoyed and inspired to learn because of my very kind and generous teachers. That gives me a drive to push through my Japanese language studies. Other classes are all related and helpful for the international students such as Japanese culture and history.

All the activities, events, programs and most specially the educational trips are all worth the experience. I can say that I was fall in love with Japan many times because of the rich culture, mouth watering food, and beautiful places. I also experience to attend classes during summer break and enrolled night school at HIA. Sometimes me and my classmates visited museums, libraries, and parks.

Another worth it experience also is my part time job in Arima. One of the most challenging yet fulfilling journey. You have to speak Japanese at all times. Even　though I am not fluent, I always tried my best to reach out and use Japanese for better communication. As I realized, the very effective way to learn the language is to be with the people and interact a lot. I know partly wronged grammar but at least I tried and I survived with a total of one month.

Now, I can say that what I have experiencing as an exchange student can't never compare to any other experiences in my whole life. The unforgettable strong typhoon and earthquake, thanks to very stable rule when it comes to building and housing projects.

Truly all my experiences here cannot compare to anything this life can offer. I will always be grateful and thankful to all the people who's being with me in this wonderful journey. Looking forward to come back again and reminiscing all the great memories that Japan gave me. I will never get tired loving Japan from its small beauty to big one.

Thank you so much KIU family and the HUMAP committee for such a huge blessing to be a scholar.