Western Connecticut State University, USA 2024
HO, Tristan Robert (Apr. 2024 - Aug. 2024)
1. Why did you decide to come study in Japan and choose Chukyo University?
When I turned 18 at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, I began to consume Japanese media - mainly anime. Through watching anime, I began to develop a love and appreciation for Japanese culture from school life, to 祭り/festivals, and food.
I had always wanted to go to Japan and initially planned on studying abroad sooner, but my own fears got the best of me and never went. When I decided not to study abroad, I stopped learning Japanese; two of my biggest regrets.
Eventually, one of my close friends pushed me to go and get a study-abroad experience. The reason I chose Chukyo University was because of its wide array of English courses it offers and the Global Education Center (GEC).
2. How do you think you have matured through your studies at Chukyo? Please share your experiences, events, or feelings while studying at Chukyo University.
I believe I have grown a lot since coming to Japan. This is the first time that I have been alone and independent from my parents, a much-needed experience. From being in Japan, absorbing the culture, and speaking the language, I feel confident in my abilities now to visit other foreign countries.
Additionally, from studying at Chukyo University, I have made countless friends and relationships, relationships that I believe will be in my life forever.
3. How do you hope to make use of this experience in the future?
I plan on using my problem solving skills and experience from Japan and applying them to wherever I go in the future.
I would like to keep in contact with some of my close Japanese and international friends that I've made.
4. Finally, please give a message to juniors who are considering studying at Chukyo University in the future.
Imagine the blossoming pink sakura trees, blooming right before your eyes; a sign of growth. As time moves, so do the seasons...and so do you. If you are thinking of studying abroad, whether it is in Japan, or elsewhere: do it. This is an experience that you may only get once, so take advantage of it. If you attend a school affiliated with the International Student Exchange Program (ISEP), then you have the potential of studying abroad by paying the tuition you otherwise would have paid at your home university.
If you decide to study at Chukyo University, you will get an excellent education in your Japanese classes, or, if you don't speak Japanese, English classes. Something that Chukyo University offers that other universities might not offer is the GEC. The GEC is a place on the Nagoya Campus where international and Japanese students alike can interact with one another. The GEC is where I have met most of my friends. Additionally, Voice, a student-volunteer program at Chukyo University frequently holds events that intermingle international students and Japanese students.
If you are thinking of studying abroad, now is your chance. And, hopefully you'll bloom with the cherry blossoms.
