My ‘You only live once’ decision to study in Japan is one of the best I’ve ever made. I had a fantastic year. I travelled all over Japan, Hokkaido, Okinawa, Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka and Nagoya; too many highlights to mention but make sure you go to as many spring festivals as you can. And be brave, I sometimes travelled alone and it was fine. Japanese people are very friendly and helpful, even when your Japanese isn’t perfect.
I enjoyed studying in English alongside Japanese students. They helped us with our understanding of Japanese culture and we helped them with English language. I was able to follow my interests, studying modules on peacebuilding and the effects of war. I also discovered that EU law was quite interesting(!) – the module was interactive and the teaching great.
Studying abroad changed me; I’m more of an extrovert and happy to take on challenges. I’ve joined Kent Law Society and am on the committee as part of the diversity team. My advice, just do it! It’s the chance of a lifetime and you won’t regret it.
