My interest in studying in Japan dates back to my high school days. At that time, my school had an international exchange program with a Japanese high school, and I had the opportunity to interact with Japanese students through that program. Although it was only a short time, I was deeply impressed by Japanese culture, lifestyle, and the serious yet cooperative attitude of the Japanese students I met. That experience sparked a desire in me to learn more about Japan—to see it and feel it with my own eyes.
Later, I came across the Global Studies Department at Kansai University of International Studies. Its internationally oriented curriculum and environment where students from diverse backgrounds come together felt like exactly the kind of place I was looking for. In particular, I believe that by actually living and studying in Japan, I can not only deepen my understanding of the language and culture but also broaden my own perspective.
My goal for studying abroad is not to achieve some grand ambition or pursue a lofty research topic. Rather, I simply want to openly engage with the many things I will encounter in everyday Japanese life. Of course, I look forward to my coursework, but I also want to experience interactions with local people, the four seasons, food culture, and daily customs—through all five of my senses.
At the same time, I think that living in a different cultural environment will give me a chance to reflect more deeply on myself. There may be times when I feel lost or overwhelmed in a new setting, but I hope to embrace each of those experiences and grow into a more flexible and resilient person.
Through my studies at Kansai University of International Studies, I want to fully take in the "present moment" of life in Japan and carry that experience forward into my future.