Where should I begin? It’s been nine weeks already since I have set foot on the land of the rising sun. Living in here brings renewed challenges and a sense of insatiable curiosity every day. Ironically, in Japan where the concept of time is invaluable, I seem to lose track of my own time accompanied by newfound friendships and experiences. Remembering the first day of my arrival, despite different nationalities, everyone was so welcoming with their arms open, so that I could feel the sense of belonging; a feeling of home. The weeks that followed were a blissful compilation of nonstop events, from a Hanami picnic at Osaka Castle and throwing BBQ parties to holding a karaoke party at my own apartment (we weren’t too loud though).

Aside from a touristy exchange life, the academic journey here is insightful. I am taking a variety of classes and two of the highlighted courses are Gaming Simulation and International PBL. Both of these classes offer a rich interaction between professors and students, and in the end it is not only educational but also deepens the relationship with my fellow international classmates as well.

Moreover, to me, when speaking of Japan, “discipline and punctual” were the first words that came up, and it’s true. One of the things I really admire is how most of my Japanese friends have their own Baito (part-time job); it is a respectable cultural norm here, which is different in Thailand. Personally, I believe having such experience would not only teach the value of savings but the future as well.

The experience so far is beyond my words and expectations, and I am cherishing every memory and relationship I have fostered. Through coming here, I have learned to embrace the unexpected, to step out of my own comfort zone and go enjoy every second of it. And lastly, if there is one thing I could wish for it would be that my exchange could last for a year instead of just one semester – there is so much yet to learn and explore!