Fantastic, taught me a lot about life Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

It really depended on the class as in most Universities - some teacher's workload was ridiculous whereas some too light and some very reasonable. The teaching method wasn't much different from that of my home university, considering that the program was oriented towards foreign exchange students. The strictness of attendance was a bit ridiculous. One class gave students an instant F if they missed 3 classes for whatever reason. I wish they would allow us to take courses in Japanese.

On-site administration of your program

It was very organized and had good connections with my home university so everything went smoothly. Only one thing is the way they group the foreign exchange students in one faculty makes you feel a bit secluded from the Japanese students. As long as you actively find and participate in clubs that should be no problem. Also, they're very strict on where people should stand in the language courses. I had passed my intensive course with little effort and wanted to skip the next level but that was completely forbidden. They wouldn't even let me re-take the placement language test even though I would have just had to walk in and take it with all the new coming students. Was disappointing and confusing. I decided not to take a language course after that because the level I was required to take was in no way a challenge.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Was a bit far and expensive for the location. Everyone was really friendly and I made a lot of friends. There were a good bit of Japanese people living here as well so it was nice for my language acquisition.

Food was great. Much better than American food in terms of healthiness. Eat anywhere and you'll enjoy it. Never felt like I was lacking something

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

People are great, transportation system is fantastic. As long as you have a positive attitude and can speak the language, it'll be more than enjoyable.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Never had any health problems or felt in danger.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

It was okay, I mainly improved my writing and reading skills. All my speaking skills were improved outside of the class by talking with other people. I used Japanese as much as possible. I practiced with Japanese friends I had met through clubs and whatnot.

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• Dorm

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• Other
• International Students

• People
• Food

• Strictness of your placement in classes