Jian-Ting Chen
Wenzao Ursuline University of Language, Taiwan
2024 Fall Semester

I learned about the ACUCA Student Mobility Scheme through the International Office at my home institution. While one of the universities I considered was not a partner school of Wenzao Ursuline University, both institutions participated in ACUCA, making my exchange possible. This program provided an incredible opportunity to experience a new culture while continuing my studies.

At Meiji Gakuin University, I enrolled in courses focused on the Japanese language, career development, and sports science, all of which were taught in Japanese. Unlike my previous academic experience, the courses here placed a stronger emphasis on presentations, discussions, and research rather than traditional papers. This teaching approach was new to me and allowed for greater engagement and independent thinking.

Beyond academics, I had the opportunity to interact with students from the U.S. and various European countries, expanding my cultural perspectives. These interactions not only enriched my experience but also deepened my understanding of different ways of thinking and learning.

Adjusting to life in Japan was challenging at first. Being in a new environment without familiar faces made me feel lonely. Additionally, living alone for the first time meant that I had to figure out what I needed to purchase for daily life. Fortunately, a nearby furniture store helped me settle in.

Another challenge was the confidence gap. Many of my peers were highly skilled in Japanese and had additional professional expertise. Initially, I doubted my abilities and felt inadequate. However, by making friends and focusing on my progress, I overcame these feelings and gained confidence. The biggest change was in my mindset—I learned to appreciate my growth rather than compare myself to others.

The teaching style at

Meiji Gakuin University was different from what I was used to. The classes involved a lot of discussions and Q&A, encouraging students to think independently. It felt more like an education system in Europe rather than Asia, and I found this refreshing and insightful.

This experience also made me appreciate my home country more. Compared to Taiwan, Japanese society felt more stressful, and I noticed that people were more reserved in their interactions. One of the biggest cultural differences I observed was the strong emphasis on hierarchical relationships in Japan, whether in school or at work. However, Japan also offers many opportunities and a competitive environment, making it a valuable place for personal and academic growth.

Through this exchange, I learned to respect and understand different cultures. Living alone also strengthened my self-management skills—I had to rely on myself to solve problems, which helped me grow significantly.

The International Center at both my home and host universities played a crucial role in my successful exchange. Initially, I was unsure about application procedures and necessary documents, but their guidance made the process smooth and efficient.

For students considering the ACUCA Student Mobility Scheme, I highly recommend taking the opportunity without overthinking. This program allows you to immerse yourself in a different culture for at least half a year while receiving financial support from ACUCA. Personally, I believe there is no better option for an enriching study-abroad experience.

Meiji Gakuin University places great emphasis on international studies and language education, fostering a global perspective among students. I found the courses in the KC department particularly challenging and different from my previous English-taught courses. The university also has a significant number of international students, making integration easier and helping me feel at home.

The academic workload at Meiji Gakuin was heavier than what I experienced in Taiwan. Weekly assignments and reports ensured that we fully understood the material. Over the semester, I completed no fewer than ten reports. However, despite the rigorous academics, I made time for leisure activities and built strong friendships with fellow international students, as we all lived in the same dormitory.

At first, I lacked confidence because of the high level of Japanese proficiency among my peers. However, as I got to know them, I shifted from feeling envious to admiring their dedication and work ethic. I began setting goals for myself, striving to improve both my language skills and personal discipline.

Looking back, I know I made the right decision. Preparing for this exchange in advance made the experience even more meaningful. The most valuable lesson I took away was learning to appreciate my family and their support. Thanks to them, I had the opportunity to study abroad and expand my horizons. I also realized that hard work leads to opportunities, and with dedication, I can achieve my goals.