One of the smartest things I've ever done Past Review

By (Asian Studies/Civilization., University of Hawaii - Manoa) for

University of the Ryukyus: Okinawa - Student Exchange Program or Japanese Studies Program

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
Prior to arriving, I didn't know much about Okinawa, but living there for 5 months was a worthwhile experience. It's very different from mainland Japan and has a different history. Coming from Hawaii, I can say that Okinawa and its people are similar but still have their own type of living style as it is still part of Japan. I will definitely go back and visit.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? 2 weeks - 1 month

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Workload was excessive but worth the time and effort because I learned a lot. The grading is about the same as my home school. The teaching methods are definitely different as they have teachers for different areas of learning (kanji, grammar, speaking, listening, etc.).

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

The amount of help they provided was unexpected. A couple of them are fluent in English and that helped me a lot when I first arrived. Besides that, whenever I needed help in something, they offered and did it in a timely manner and a good mood.

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

* Food:

Not enough restaurants around the school so students have to always eat in the cafeteria, which can get a little boring. However, the menu changes with certain events that the school holds.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

The speech contest was very memorable for me. Even though I was forced to participate, I think it was a worthwhile experience and I ended up winning.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

As far as safety goes, Japan is one of the safest place in the world in my opinion. I didn't have a problem with leaving my things around with me being in the same area.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

Finances

* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?

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

Language

If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition?

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Dorm
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Local Students

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • It helped me learn the language
  • The teachers are very nice
  • I made a lot of friends that I will be friends with forever
* What could be improved?
  • Warning about the weather
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? Students studying Japanese and those who don't mind the warmer, but ever-changing weather will like it here. People are very friendly so to survive, it's best to make friends.