Nano KIMURA
Osaka Jogakuin University, Japan
2024 Fall Semester

My name is Nano Kimura, and I am a 4th-year student at Osaka Jogakuin University in Japan. During my time at Hannam University in Korea, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in various activities. I enrolled in the course Special Seminar on Studies and Understanding Korean Society. These courses offered me an in-depth look into Korean culture, society, and social issues that allowed me to explore perspectives on global and cultural topics from fellow international students.

Living in a foreign country wasn’t without its challenges. As someone who doesn’t speak Korean fluently, I struggle to communicate sometimes. There were moments when my Korean wasn’t understood by the locals, which made daily interactions feel difficult. Despite this, I worked hard to improve my language skills and adapt to the environment. Moreover, I also lived with roommates from different backgrounds, which sometimes led to opposing views and disagreements. However, by talking things through, we were able to find common ground and build a better, peaceful dorm experience.

One of the most enriching parts of my study-abroad experience was the diversity I encountered. With students from various countries, I was exposed to a range of insights on culture, society, and global issues. This broadened my understanding of the world, and it was refreshing to see how others viewed topics I thought I had known well. Living in Korea allowed to me experience its culture firsthand–something that would not have been possible as a tourist. From food and customs to festivals, every experience was new and exciting.

Through this experience, I developed a deeper appreciation for Asian cultures and the importance of respecting differences. Even though we are all part of the same world, each country has its rich uniqueness. It became clear to me that we must protect and respect each other’s heritage, especially in an increasingly interconnected world.

My time in Korea also taught me valuable life lessons. I learned that differences in thoughts and values are natural, not only between countries but also among individuals within the same country. Upbringing, age, and cultural background all influence how people perceive and interact with the world. This understanding has helped me become more open-minded and compassionate towards others.

I would like to express my gratitude to the International Office at my home institution, Osaka Jogakuin University, for their support and guidance throughout the exchange process. Their assistance was invaluable in making my study abroad experience a success.

For students considering the ACUCA Student Mobility Scheme, I highly recommend doing some preparation before your trip. If you are going to a country where the language is different from your own, take the time to study the language and learn basic skills like cooking and cleaning. Studying abroad is not just about academics; it’s also about learning to live independently. Proper preparation will help ensure you make the most of your time abroad.

My semester in Korea was an eye-opening experience. I made lasting friendships, gained a deeper understanding of Korean culture, and returned home with a renewed sense of appreciation for the diversity of the world. I am grateful for this opportunity and look forward to applying the lessons I learned in my future endeavors.