Personal Development
Through this experience, I enhanced my proficiency in the Japanese language by taking Japanese language courses and engaging in daily conversations. I made an effort to explore various locations, sample local cuisine, and socialize with both local and international students. This immersion allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of Japanese culture. Visiting cultural landmarks and participating in local events further cultivated my appreciation for different cultural environments. I recognized the significance of understanding diverse cultures, especially in a multicultural setting like Australia. As a result, I have decided to pursue further studies in the field of Education, integrating the knowledge I gained during my BA degree and exchange program.
Academic Development
Adapting to a completely different academic system and environment was initially quite challenging. The significantly heavier study load, coupled with the language barrier (as English is not widely spoken in Japan), posed the biggest obstacles. To overcome these challenges, I focused on efficient time management through proactive planning, utilized the tutor service offered to international students by the host university, and dedicated ample time to studying.
Professional Development
My strong time management skills, honed through balancing academic and extracurricular responsibilities, will directly contribute to workplace productivity. By adeptly prioritizing tasks and meeting deadlines, I can help the team achieve its goals and maintain project timelines. This capability will enable me to handle multiple tasks without sacrificing quality, thereby supporting the overall success of the team.
My ability to collaborate with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds will enhance teamwork and foster an inclusive environment within the workplace. I can help build a culturally aware and sensitive team, improving our ability to work harmoniously with diverse colleagues and international partners. Additionally, my experience in adapting to unfamiliar environments will allow me to approach new challenges and situations with adaptability and resilience, essential qualities in a dynamic and evolving work setting.
I intend to leverage my advanced proficiency in the Japanese language to enhance workplace communication and build strong relationships with Japanese-speaking clients, colleagues, and partners. This skill will be particularly valuable in roles involving cross-cultural communication, translation, and collaboration, enabling effective engagement with Japanese-speaking stakeholders. Moreover, my language skills will enable me to discern subtle cultural nuances, ensuring smoother interactions and reducing the risk of miscommunication.
By leveraging these personal attributes, I aim to create positive and productive work.
Budget
I conducted thorough research on living costs in Tokyo and created a preliminary budget before my departure. After my first month in Tokyo, I adjusted the budget to align with the actual expenses, ensuring that I had enough funds to cover my entire stay in Japan.
The total expenses for my exchange experience amounted to approximately AUD15,000. Here's the breakdown of my expenses: Accommodation: $4,000; Transport (airfare + daily public transport): $4,000; Food: $3,500; Other expenses (insurance, textbooks, entertainment, etc.): $1,500; Travel: $2,000.
Advice: Conduct comprehensive research on local living costs before your departure. Customize your budget to match your personal lifestyle and financial resources. Continuously adjust your budget based on actual living costs to ensure that you have sufficient funds for your entire stay at your destination.
I was granted $7,000 in funding through the New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant and secured a loan from the Australian Government. The combined funding was sufficient to cover all my expenses during my time in Japan.
Accommodation
I was fortunate to have my accommodation arranged by my host university, and staying in the university dormitory proved to be a great experience. The affordable rent, convenient location, and opportunity to connect with other international students were definite advantages. Additionally, the well-managed dormitory provided a safe environment and easy access to support from the management team. On the downside, the lack of interaction with local people was a drawback. My advice to future students regarding housing is to consider their goals carefully. If you aim to immerse yourself in the local community, opting for a homestay accommodation might be more suitable than a student dormitory.
Highlight
Taking courses gave me a wealth of new knowledge, and I formed friendships with people from diverse cultural backgrounds. The most precious aspect was the opportunity to immerse myself in authentic Japanese culture.
Advice/Top Tips
Remember to be prepared to dedicate more time and effort to your studies than you did at your home university. Stay actively engaged in your coursework and maintain a positive attitude. Make an effort to be open, friendly, and sociable with your peers, as building a strong support network can enhance your experience. Don't hesitate to seek assistance from professors or support services if you find yourself facing challenges.
