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UEFers study abroad diary – "Japan, come to love"

10/10/2022

Thanks to UEF’s extensive international partner network, students have several opportunities to access modern education and learning environments in various countries around the world besides joining cultural and academic exchange programs locally. Most recently, two Japanese Language majors, Tran Thi Thanh Thao and Nguyen Huynh Que Anh participated in a student exchange program in Japan. Here are some sharings about their studies in the Land of the Rising Sun.

“I have dreamed of coming to Japan and studying with Japanese students for a long time. This is a golden opportunity for me,” said Tran Thi Thanh Thao, an international student at University of East Asia – Yamaguchi Prefecture.

Students adapted quickly to the new learning environment in Japan

Regarding professional activities for juniors and seniors wishing to work in Japanese enterprises, Thanh Thao said that students were prepared with well-fitted suits to join an interview with major employers, where students did take notes and pose questions to them. “It was truly a valuable experience, and I have gained more good practices for future job interviews,” Thao expressed.

Alongside joining classes and practice-oriented exercises, Thao had the opportunity to take part in many extra-curricular activities with other Japanese students. Thereby, helping improve her communication abilities and broaden her horizons through the exchange of language and culture.

“I had opportunities to participate in charity programs, and despite being tired, I was extremely happy. Through studying abroad, I have acquired many precious spiritual values besides academic knowledge. Contemplating the scene of ancient citadels, strolling at Kokura Castle and enjoying the traditional Taiyaki Japanese fish-shaped cakes are the beautiful footages of my youth,” Thao confided.

Students received a lot of help from Japanese families

Nguyen Huynh Que Anh, a transfer student at Kobe International University coming to Japan after 3 months of online learning due to the pandemic, is another who has sharings about her memorable time in the Land of the Rising Sun.

Que Anh joined Hippo Family when coming here, where Japanese people are willing to help overseas students, expressed: “After the meeting, these native citizens helped me get used to life in Japan. They even invited me to their home for chats and meals. Japanese people regard us as their relatives and family members. I feel their warmth spread in this unfamiliar land.”

Exploring new cultures is an amazing activity for the students

Que Anh said that she received a lot of guidance from family members in the Hippo Family about Japanese culture.; She tried on Kimono, practiced making a tea ceremony, and so forth. In addition, she also became a “teacher” teaching Vietnamese for the whole family.

“They are very willing to help and guide me. For international students like me, being in a cozy atmosphere with Japanese people somewhat lessens homesickness. They are also curious about the Vietnamese language. I feel warm when being with my small family, Hippo,” Que Anh said this was an intimate meeting, so she had a lof of opportunities to speak Japanese and learn new things.

The journey of studying overseas has brought Thanh Thao and Que Anh special emotions and experiences. This also affirms the diversification of UEF's international programs, opening up valuable learning opportunities and experiences, helping students access and learn from many educational and cultural backgrounds around the world.

Faculty of International Languages and Cultures