Study Abroad and Domestic Study Away

My time in Japan will be a lifelong cherished memory!

For my 2025 Spring Junior year semester, I had the opportunity to study abroad in Nagasaki, Japan, through the USAC program. Studying abroad had been a dream of mine, but one that felt out of reach. I doubted my ability to take on such a challenge. Yet here I am, at the end of my study abroad journey!

Nagasaki University of Foreign Studies (NUFS) felt reminiscent of what drew me to Lake Forest College in the first place. A small, welcoming, close-knit community with access to a city where one can further spread their wings. Studying at NUFS allowed me to experience cultural immersion with the school’s encouragement.    

When I first arrived in Japan, I had no prior knowledge of the language. So, imagine my surprise to find that my Japanese Language 01 and Kanji 01 courses were fully taught in Japanese!... Thankfully, the classes were still beginner-friendly. By having these classes taught this way, it encouraged me to engage with the material on a deeper level and to acquire more than I would have otherwise.    

In my International Relations course at NUFS, I was further encouraged to embrace the culture. We were instructed to become involved through volunteering at nearby schools, attending speeches by Hibakushas (survivors of the atomic bomb) hosted at the Atomic Bomb Museum, and exploring locations that illustrated the rich history of Nagasaki as Japan’s first international trading port. In addition to my courses, I got to further experience Japanese culture through festivities hosted by the school, such as a Yukata Day (a time to wear traditional Japanese attire for summer festivals and events). I am thankful to have experienced the involvement fostered by the NUFS program, which allowed me to develop a greater understanding of Japan and its culture.    

I was not too familiar with Nagasaki before traveling there. I was awestruck when I first saw the towering mountains and lush greenery that surrounded the campus. Despite the hot summer days, I made sure to take many walks whenever possible! Now, at the end of my journey, I can say that Nagasaki holds a special place in my heart. I long for its scenery, as well as the conveyor-belt sushi nights and karaoke with friends.   

If you are hesitant, like I was, to take on a daunting adventure such as studying abroad, I urge you to take the leap! Give yourself the chance to meet the “you” who can overcome the impossible.

I want to thank the Ingrid H. and George L. Speros scholarship as well as the Global Engagement staff for helping make this dream of self-growth a reality for me and many other students! 

Megane Bridge in Nagasaki