Ye Jie Sung
Wenzao Ursuline University of Languages, Taiwan
2024 Fall Semester

During my participation in the ACUCA Student Mobility Scheme, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in Japan’s academic and cultural environment. I first learned about the ACUCA program through the International Office at my home institution. While researching exchange opportunities, I found that the school I wanted to attend offered the ACUCA scholarship, which led me to discover the organization.

At my host institution, I primarily took courses related to the Japanese language. However, I quickly noticed significant differences between the teaching methodologies in Japan and Taiwan. In Japan, coursework focused heavily on reports and assignments, whereas in Taiwan, examinations were the primary mode of assessment. Adjusting to this new academic style was a challenge, but it ultimately helped me develop stronger research and writing skills. Additionally, participating in class discussions and completing after-class reports enhanced my ability to present my ideas effectively and engage in academic discourse.

Beyond academics, I used my free time to explore various places in Japan, engage in club activities with friends, and participate in international exchange events. These experiences helped me connect with people from different cultures, broadening my global perspective. Adjusting to life in Japan was relatively smooth since I had already obtained the N1 language certification, allowing me to communicate with ease. However, living independently presented its challenges. One of the most difficult moments was dealing with illness—having no immediate family support meant I had to manage everything on my own.

A particularly memorable experience occurred when I lost my wallet on a train, which contained nearly 20,000 yen. Initially, I was extremely anxious, but I immediately reported the incident to the station’s information center. Despite my proficiency in Japanese, explaining the situation to the station clerk was still a challenge. Fortunately, Japan’s culture of honesty worked in my favor. A kind stranger had found my wallet and turned it in, allowing me to recover it without any issues. This experience reinforced my admiration for Japan’s integrity and sense of social responsibility.

Living in Japan also taught me valuable life lessons. I became more independent and self-reliant as I had to manage household chores, administrative matters, and daily life without the support of my family. Additionally, I gained a deeper appreciation for cultural differences. I observed that while Japanese people generally maintain a reserved distance from strangers, they are always willing to help when approached. This balance between personal space and kindness left a lasting impression on me. The politeness of Japanese society stood out as well—simple gestures like store clerks expressing gratitude after every transaction made a significant impact on my experience.

My exchange program would not have been as successful without the support of the International Office at Wenzao and the coordinators at Meiji Gakuin University. The staff at Wenzao worked diligently to handle all ACUCA-related documents, making the application process seamless. Meanwhile, the coordinators at Meiji Gakuin provided incredible support, assisting us with residence cards, health insurance, and other essential matters upon arrival. They also organized events for exchange students, creating a welcoming environment that made my stay even more enjoyable.

This experience was truly transformative. It strengthened my adaptability, open-mindedness, and appreciation for cultural diversity. Participating in a homestay program allowed me to witness Japanese traditions firsthand, deepening my understanding of their way of life. Additionally, joining my university’s volleyball club was a highlight, as it fostered friendships and a sense of camaraderie that made my exchange experience even more fulfilling.

The exchange program also reinforced the importance of communication. Even small gestures, such as saying “thank you,” can have a profound impact. Initially, I struggled to keep up with the fast-paced conversations of native speakers, but over time, my listening skills improved significantly. By the end of my stay, I could comfortably understand and respond to conversations in everyday situations, which boosted my confidence in using the language.

Overall, my time in Japan was an unforgettable journey of growth and learning. For anyone considering an exchange program, I highly recommend seizing the opportunity. Although the thought of moving to a foreign country might be intimidating at first, the experience is invaluable. It fosters independence, cultural understanding, and linguistic skills—qualities that are essential in today’s globalized world. Looking back, I am incredibly grateful for the memories, friendships, and personal development I gained through the ACUCA Student Mobility Scheme, and I will cherish these experiences for a lifetime.