My Exchange at Sophia University
Prior my exchange, I wish I knew more about the courses. It is hard to know what you can exactly take and what you can’t take. By choosing courses in Sophia, If you have the initial selected courses, you might not be able to take the courses because it could be full or it could be a “lottery course” which is a first come-first serve basis. Additionally, Sophia does everything at last minute and the courses you can take changes so It is really hard to get things in time.
Q&A
What were some of the highlights of the academic experience at your host university?
The lecturers are interesting, I took a course based on Border Crossing in East Asia. The course was about Half-Japanese people and their discrimination. There were many Japanese returnees in that course and the idea of “Home” for those people were an interesting subject. The teacher brings in discussions really well and I don’t think I got bored.
Would you recommend any particular activity/activities unique to your host country or university?
Sophia has ALOT of different clubs/Alot of events. Rather than the academic side, doing different clubs are more entertaining.
The club I joined was called Global Network- A club to support exchange students. I joined this club because I believe it would be interesting to support exchange student as an exchange student using my proficiency in Japanese – I’m fluent.
Another club I joined is called Bloome – a KPOP Dance Club. This is the club I enjoyed the most. I Joined this club because I wanted to do dance for a while, and Sophia was perfect for that because they had about 5 different dance club. I was surprised they had that many dance clubs.
The club I recommend depends on your hobby and time management – For students, about 2 clubs is the max and joining more is really difficult. However, the event based club SISEC is what I recommend the most because ALOT of exchange/japanese people are in that club.
Country:
EVERYWHERE is sooo fun! trains are AMAZING! SOO many events like in Christmas, eating KFC is a tradition! Explore the big areas, like Kyoto/Osaka, you can go by bullet train and plane but if you know Japanese/have a Japanese friend, you can find cheaper hotels.
What are your top 3 tips for future students attending your host university or going on exchange to your host country?
- Courses – Its sooo important to EXACTLY know what your going to take and attendace is required for half of the courses.
- If your going to do the supporter program, them try and hang out with your supporter as much as possible.
- Join clubs! Its really fun doing extra-curricular activities. You dont have to be able to speak to join! Also, Sophia has the most exchange students so you will make ALOT of friends.
How much did you budget for your exchange? Was this enough? Were there any lessons learned that would help future students budget for their own exchange?
Bring more money than you originally planned!!! I think my original budget wasn’t enough! Save ALOT/do scholarships its worth it just incase you extend it.
What are your most significant takeaways from your experience abroad?
1. Cultural Workshops or Events: Engaging in cultural workshops or attending local events, especially those that delve into the histories and experiences of minority groups in the region, can provide deeper insights and a more hands-on understanding of the themes you studied.
2. Community Service Opportunities: Participating in community service projects that support underrepresented communities can offer a practical application, studies and foster a deeper connection with the local/diverse culture. Sophia is soooo diverse. It has the most exchange students.
3. Local Travel: Exploring different regions within the country, especially areas that are significant to the communities discussed in your courses, can offer real-life perspectives on the academic concepts.
I also became more conservative with my money.
Do you want to share anything about travels you did outside your host city/country?
1. Kyoto and Osaka: These cities are like stepping into different chapters of a history book. Kyoto, with its ancient temples, shrines, and preserved streets, contrasts with Osaka’s vibrant, modern culture and bustling street food scenes.
2. Nara and Nikko: Nara is known for its historic temples and friendly deer roaming free in Nara Park. Nikko, on the other hand, offers a scenic retreat with its beautiful shrines and natural landscapes like the Kegon Falls.
3. Tokyo: As a sprawling metropolis, Tokyo is a blend of the ultramodern and the traditional, from neon-lit skyscrapers and anime shops to historic temples and quiet parks.
4. Hokkaido: Famous for its rugged natural beauty, Hokkaido offers a stark contrast to the urban environment of places like Tokyo, with its national parks, ski resorts, and the famous Sapporo Snow Festival.
5. Okinawa: This tropical paradise offers a distinct cultural and linguistic heritage compared to the rest of Japan, with beautiful beaches, the historic Shuri Castle, and a slower pace of life.
6. Hiroshima: A city rebuilt with peace at its core, Hiroshima is known worldwide for its Peace Memorial Park and Museum, which serve as poignant reminders of the impacts of war.
Final Comments
More money, you’ll know your courses once you get there, be careful when it comes to drinking. Japan is cheap, Convenient stores open 24/7. You’ll love it!!