Study Abroad and Domestic Study Away

My study abroad experience has been nothing short of amazing. I’ve been blessed with the opportunity to immerse myself in a culture different from what I was accustomed to. I traveled and explored many areas of Tokyo, but I even had the chance to go all the way to the Kansai region and visit Kyoto.    

Before my time in Japan, I hardly visited places of worship, so Japan has developed my newfound appreciation for these sacred places after visiting so many different shrines and temples around Japan. My particular favorite was the Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto. A giant Torii gate welcomes all visitors at the shrine’s entrance and leads people to the shrine’s main hall where visitors can pay their respects. Deeper into the shrine’s main grounds is where you can find the famous two parallel rows of gates called Senbon Torii (Thousands of Torii Gates). My family and I followed one of those paths lined with Torii gates to the top of Mt. Inari, where we got to see a wonderful view of Kyoto. Historic temples, like Senso-ji in Asakusa and Meiji Shingu in Harajuku, can be found intermixed with the modern advancements around Tokyo. It has been fascinating to see Japan's tenacity to preserve cultural relics and traditions while simultaneously promoting innovation and growth. This stark contrast is what I believe makes Japan so special. 

I initially had trouble getting acclimated to the social and cultural norms, but it got easier as I learned Japanese and gained more exposure to locals. I interacted and connected with people from all around the world, people with different backgrounds, and people from all different walks of life throughout my time in Japan. This experience is a personal story about growth and maturity. It's a journey that is unique to me. I’ll always remember the laughs I had walking around Shibuya and the long train rides to my campus in Ikebukuro. In my study abroad experience, I know I’ve gained lifelong friendships. 

Before I leave for the States, I plan to make a journey to Seoul, South Korea with a roommate who has been a very important person to me during my time in Japan. 

Thank you so much to my family, Lake Forest College, and the Speros donors for allowing my dream to become a reality. I greatly appreciate you all! 

Visiting Gotokuji Temple: