Asian Studies student work at Murdoch University


Lesleigh Bower

Himejidokkyo University


The highlights of my time in Japan

The highlight of my time in Japan can be divided into two main categories. Firstly, from an academic perspective, I was so excited to reach a level of language proficiency which allowed me to understand almost everything that was being said around me. I also became comfortable and confident enough in my language abilities to be able to make friends without feeling awkward or embarrassed by an inability to say what I really wanted to say. From this perspective, I’m excited for that the future brings, and for the Japanese friends I’m sure to meet as time goes by.

From another perspective, simply travelling so extensively throughout Japan in the 10 months I was there has been an experience that has changed my outlook toward Japan completely. Just witnessing the immense diversity amongst the various regions and groups of people has been an absolutely amazing opportunity, and I am grateful for the knowledge I gained and many fun times I experienced along the way.


Japan is…

An amazing mix of tradition and contemporary trends, which merge to create an extremely interesting, sometimes confusing and surprisingly diverse country. It is my second home. I am so grateful for the time I have spent there to date, and know I will return in the future, whether for work or leisure. I am very proud that I have a small understanding of the Japanese way of life, and I look forward to sharing that with others; whatever chance I get.


Other advices to prospective participants in JPN343

My only word of advice for prospective participants is to grasp this amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in a foreign culture. Not many people ever have the chance to simply go and live in another country – no strings attached – for almost a year. While in Japan, I encourage you not to simply remain within the compounds of your university, for that is such an unfortunate waste! Instead, get out and travel, meet people and participate in ‘life’ - Japanese style.