Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Great program! Would do again! August 13, 2026

By (Mathematics and Computer Science, Brandeis University) - abroad from 04/01/2026 to 07/31/2026 with

Waseda University: Tokyo - Direct Enrollment & Exchange

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned to manage on my own in a non-English-speaking country, adapt to a new university, and connect with people from all over the world.

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.

Studying in the heart of Tokyo, Waseda University (particularly the Nishi-Waseda campus) provides great exposure to different engineering disciplines. The coursework was well-balanced, so I had plenty of time to explore Tokyo and travel around Japan. The professors were very kind and supportive. In the English program, classes are mostly made up of international students rather than Japanese students. However, there are plenty of opportunities to meet Japanese students through the International Student Center and the many campus resources and events.

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Didn't get on campus housing

* Food:

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

* Safety:

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

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes

Direct Enrollment/Exchange

* Did you study abroad through an exchange program or did you directly enroll in the foreign university? Exchange

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Apartment
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • N/A
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • International Students

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • Perfect balance of academics and exploring Japan.
  • Meeting people from all over the world
* What could be improved?
  • Create more opportunities for international students to connect with local Japanese students, since the language barrier can make it difficult for both groups to interact naturally.
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I had understood spesifc japanese etiquette and daily living expectations before arriving, as they vary a lot from other countries (e.g. as simple as throwing away trash)

Reasons For Studying Abroad

To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you.
The Networker
An active student leader, it was important for you to network abroad as well. Once overseas, you sought out student clubs, volunteered with local organizations, or attended community events. You encouraged your friends join you, and often considered how you could reflect your international experiences in a resume.