JAPAN IS GREAT Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Work was rigorous in the academic classes I took. The workload seemed about right to high, though the class schedule was not conducive to exploring and experiencing culture. I would suggest to someone studying abroad at Temple to take fewer classes, or try to take classes only M/W/F or Tu/Th. Sometimes, the workload was excessively high, which was especially annoying during the second half of the semester when the weather was nicer, there were more festivals, and it was more tempting to go out and explore. I was very happy with my Japanese Language class, I learned a lot and the level was fast-paced but manageable. I feel like I got a lot out of it. My Chinese and Japanese Literature in Cultural Context class was fun and informative, I learned a lot in that class as well, though the second half of the semester was crowded with papers and homework compared to the first half. The lectures in my Art History class were good, but the tests were unnecessarily difficult. I did enjoy all of the class field trips however, we went to some great museums and saw some awesome shows.

On-site administration of your program

Sometimes it was hard getting things done as far as student ID sign up and things like that. Everything was organized for the most part, however.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I liked living with a lot of people and having my own room as well as a common area for lounging. I didn't even mind the common showers). Having others to consult with about homework or work alongside late into the night was awesome. I loved our small town, and I was able to practice my simple Japanese at the grocery store and restaurants. Our dorm manager, Aki-san went above and beyond for us. He was amazing. I loved the dorm.

Food was great and much healthier than home for the most part. Sometimes it was difficult finding a place to eat for me and my vegan/vegetarian friends, but we made it work. Also there is an international area down the street from the campus that had vegetarian and vegan restaurants.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

JAPAN IS AMAZING. The temples, the pop culture, the traditional culture, EVERYTHING. Amazing. Just what I wanted. I wish the weather had been nicer, though.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

We had to get Japanese health care while we were there, so if anything happened physically, we were assuredly taken care of. I felt totally safe wherever I went in Japan, walking home late at night and even in places I wasn't familiar with. It is very safe.

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

I was very happy with my Japanese Language class, I learned a lot and the level was fast-paced but manageable. I feel like I got a lot out of it. Great!

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• Americans