“The first day of school !”

The school I attend has 900 students from grades 7 to 12, and is a comprehensive high school offering courses in core subjects such as Art, Music, Drama, Communications Technology, Auto and Woodworking, as well as after school for credit class in African Drumming.

I took English, math, biology and tourism classes at school. It was difficult for me to hear the words in the biology class, but my friends helped me.

I was more excited than anxious, and I was able to actively talk to the people around. I made more than 10 friends on the first day. They told me, "I want to introduce more friends, so let's have lunch together tomorrow."

Thankfully, I felt that people in Canada have a large capacity to accept other ethnic groups and different cultures, and it doesn’t take long time for them to open their heart.

I brought “Matcha” flavored chocolate snacks in Canada. I used the snacks as a trigger, I was able to expand the story about the Japanese culture "Matcha" that I wanted to convey. Snacks are the most effective communication tools. This can be said to be similar to the "Ame-chan" effect of older women in Osaka.

Also, on that day, I took some actions immediately. I contacted the Childcare center near my host family's house, and I negotiated for volunteering during the summer vacation to realize my plan in Canada. It was allowed by promising some terms. I act actively, not passively to enhance my study abroad for only one year.

In a TV drama I was watching in Japan, I heard a word; "Keep on learning English. I'm sure it will take you somewhere you never imagine." I'm feeling that word is right now.

IM friends! Let's do our best together! 

留学初日から、順調なスタートダッシュを切れた様ですね！

これから１年間でどの様に成長をしていくのか、とても楽しみです。

今後も継続して、現地の様子をお伝えして参りますので、よろしくお願いいたします。