Bebheann Conlin

Describe your study abroad program.

I spent the last semester studying at Akita International University, AIU for short. AIU is a tiny university in Northern Japan, and a whopping four hours from Tokyo by bullet train. While there, I was able to experience the historical culture of Japan that I've been studying independently since high school, as well as learn more modern aspects of the country's society, like Japanese Sign Language.

For me, choosing AIU was one of the easiest decisions I've made since coming to college. Compared to the two other universities Knox has pre-approved programs with, AIU is the only one that isn't in a highly westernized urban center, like Osaka and Tokyo, made it the location that would give me the best chance at seeing traditional aspects of Japan without commuting terribly far from my university. Add into this the fact that AIU's non-language classes are taught in English, and that they had clubs that were right up my alley, and I was sold!

How did Knox prepare you for study abroad?

Especially in the smaller country areas, English isn't a commonly spoken language, and this was definitely one of the biggest things I had to plan for. Luckily, I was able to start taking Japanese language classes here at Knox my freshman year, so I had a decent foundation when I left for my study abroad. Outside of that, I spent most of my time making sure I was familiar with life in the area where I was going to be living and that I was aware of the majority of cultural norms for the area.

How has your experience in Japan had an impact on your plans for the future?

While in Japan, I had the chance to teach English to elementary schoolers in the nearby city. For me, this opportunity had a major affect on my plans for after college, leading me from heading straight into the workforce after college to actually returning to Japan to study for my English teaching certification there.

What were some highlights while you were abroad?

Inside the classroom, the bonds I was able to make with other exchange students from around the world was absolutely amazing. I went to Japan hoping to meet students from the area, and came out with friends ranging from France to China and Australia!

Outside the classroom, having the opportunity to immerse myself in the happenings of the local community was amazing. In the four months I lived in Akita, I attended festivals ranging from taiko drums and traditional dance performances to rice harvesting and mochi making.

What surprised you about study abroad?

What surprised me most was how easy it was to feel at home at my host university. When I left for my study abroad, I expected to have a hard time finding a place to fit in, but I was lucky enough to be surprised by how welcoming and easy to join the community at AIU was.

Why do you think study abroad is so important?

Being able to turn all of your life experiences on their head is something that someone can't really accomplish in the safety of home. I feel as though having just that happen to me more times than I can count is one of the biggest reasons I changed as much as I did while abroad.