Study Abroad 2017:
Intensive Language and Culture in Kyoto
Where I Went
The program took place in Kyoto. I used the opportunity to visit other places in my own time. This included cities like Tokyo, Nara, Osaka, Sendai, and Saitama.
What I Did
Participating in this program gave me the opportunity to partake in traditional cultural activities that even many Japanese natives have never had the chance to do. I took a Japanese language course at Ritsumeikan University that covered Intermediate level conversation and reading comprehension, as well as a culture class that allowed us to interview Japanese locals of all ages to conduct surveys for topics related to Kyoto.
I was able to participate in field trips as part of the program. The field trips during the program were very enriching and gave me a deeper perspective on the culture. This included a pottery class with a famous potter, bento box preparation at a five-star restaurant, a taiko drumming lesson, and the chance to see a performance by geisha to name a few.
I tried my best to assimilate into the Japanese lifestyle while still visiting the major cultural sites. Between visiting local restaurants and museums, getting a haircut (in Japanese), attending a huge concert, visiting major shrines and temples, and meeting many Japanese locals along the way, I feel I got the most out of my trip.
None of this would have been possible without the Gilman Scholarship, though. I am grateful to be one of five recipients from FIU that summer to receive this competitive scholarship.
Takeaways
This study abroad meant so much more than a trip to Japan. It was an experience of a lifetime. Not only was I able to find a deeper understanding of the culture and better grasp the Japanese language, but I also made connections with people there that will never be erased. The opportunity to be among people from all over the world in a location halfway across the Earth from my hometown of Miami, FL has broadened my perspective and understanding immensely.
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