Exchange Students

MONTANEZ SANCHEZ MARLESHKA YEDRIELYS (Sep. 2025 - Dec. 2025)

1. Why did you decide to come study in Japan and choose Chukyo University?

I have had multiple Japanese friends since I was a child and have appreciated various aspects of their culture, especially popular culture. Due to its similarity with Spanish, I studied Japanese for six semesters at the time of my decision, but I had not declared it a minor yet. After I did, I became much more motivated to continue learning Japanese and ultimately declared it my second major. 

After encouragement from my professor, I landed on Chukyo because it was the best choice for me. One of my friends back home was born and raised in Nagoya, and I liked that Chukyo had a large Psychology program like my school, since it is my first major. Also, considering it was my first time abroad, I wanted a city that was smaller and less intimidating than Tokyo, but central and easy to travel from. Aichi prefecture feels like home.

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.

When I first got to Japan, I was very shy, scared, and unsure of my language skills. After my time here, I have come out of my shell, formed a presence, and appreciated every moment possible. I have established strong connections with the Japanese students and other exchange students, and I intend to visit sometime in the future, or host them in my city in America to visit. 

I had the opportunity to travel and learn about the religions, traditions, and customs, and I even got to interact with locals in other regions. Despite insecurity in my ability to communicate, I have grown, and I am leaving with more motivation to learn in case I return. 

3. How do you hope to make use of this experience in the future?

The Asian Language program at my school is quite small, with the Chinese and Japanese departments only having about three faculty each. I would love to use this opportunity as a chance to spread it on my campus when I return and grow it if possible. I had been wanting to visit Japan since I was a child, and after fulfilling this dream and being granted more than I expected, I would love to help grant such an opportuntiy to other students like me. 

I remember being 6 years old and reading the story of Hachiko, and since then, I had wanted to visit Japan. I got to see his statue in Tokyo and teared up at the realization I made my dream come true. After this experience, I am also considering other options in Japan including working, teaching, or obtaining higher education. 

4. Finally, please give a message to juniors who are considering studying at Chukyo University in the future.

Since I came here, I have been extremely happy with my decision. I believe this was the best choice for me, and given all the amazing people I have met, I would not change the experience. Be yourself, push yourself out of your comfort zone, and talk to as many people as you can. The professors are amazing, and I have enjoyed getting to know them. As a native Spanish speaker, I was pleasantly surprised by the number of Japanese students who pursue it as a language, so it has been a dynamic cultural exchange. Chukyo has an amazing community and a welcoming environment. You will feel right at home!