“The experience that I gained here is fantastic”

Student of Cultures and Languages of East Asian Countries// VMU Bilateral Exchange studies in Japan, Kansai Gaidai University

Describe how do you value your experience abroad.

The experience that I gained here is fantastic. Starting with the university, I can only say positive things. The courses that the university offered were diverse and fascinating. You could choose from something like politics to something more unique, for example, courses about traditional Japanese music/clothing or even cooking. As for professors and university personnel, they were extremely helpful, understanding, and professional.

About my student life here, the dormitory I lived in was really clean and modern. I had my own personal space, and that made me really happy. Moreover, I was a part of a volunteering club, and to be honest, that club and its members alone really made my stay here amazing and unforgettable. I was surprised by how friendly and helpful the local students here were.

What surprised you the most in the beginning?

In the very beginning, what surprised me the most was probably the weather. Because I came to Japan at the very end of August, the weather there was really hot and humid. Funny enough, weather like this stayed until the very end of November. Other than the weather, I was nicely surprised by how polite everyone was. When waiting for a train or a bus, instead of rushing and fighting for a sitting spot, people would form tidy lines when waiting for the public transport to arrive and give seating priority to elderly people.

Describe study quality abroad and its differences from Vytautas Magnus University.

I wouldn’t say there is much of a difference between Kansai Gaidai University and Vytautas Magnus University, but the attendance at the foreign university was way more strict. Other than that, both universities provide good study quality, professional professors, and just a good overall study experience.

How well did you feel integrated abroad?

would say pretty well, of course, I had to do tons of research before coming to Japan so I knew what to expect and how to act in certain places. If I ever had any questions or needed help, I always had the option to talk to my mentors, university personnel, etc.