Living and Learning While Studying in Japan and South Korea

A Long Travel Day to Japan

Studying abroad has always been a dream of mine. So, my goal was to take everything in and step out of my comfort zone. Obviously, it was easier said than done the majority of the time abroad. This was my first time out of the US, taking a very long flight, and doing things I usually wouldn't. The day I left I was nervous and really excited about this journey. I had to take two flights to get to Japan: Pensacola, Florida to Houston, Texas, and finally one to Tokyo.

The eleven-hour flight was interesting since I had a window seat. You can see everything and could tell the times and day were changing in real time. It was so beautiful to see everything and knowing I was going across the world. Sleeping most of the time was somewhat easy for me. The thing I was most intrigued about was the in-flight food since this was new to me. It was very hit or miss but I was grateful for it. The worst part I believe was that my legs and feet were giving out. When I finally made it, I was filled with relief, but anxious about going through customs. It was a lot to process but I was able to get everything done in good time. 

On route to Japan

First Day of Classes in Japan

The first day of classes was the day after we had our orientation and welcome dinner. The university I attended was J.F. Oberlin University - Shinjuku Campus. It was beautiful, and it was cool to see the difference and similarities compared to US universities. The class I took in Japan was Japanese Anime and Popular Culture. As a big anime fan, I was really excited to learn anime history and see things in person. We met in the classroom and the professor did an overview of the class. After that we left for Akihabara to do a scavenger hunt. We had to find things, buildings, etc. related to anime and Japanese popular culture. It was really fun to do since the city is a big anime hub. Seeing the places I only saw online beforehand in person was everything to me.  

Me at J.F. Oberlin University

Trying a New Dessert in Asakusa

Once we were done, we had a kimono-wearing activity through the program. We went to Asakusa to get our kimonos. It was a place that lots of tourists and locals were at. You could really see the beauty of the people in kimonos. Specifically seeing other Black women just made it more lovely. Me and my friends took pictures around Sensō-ji temple, walked around the shopping street, and shopped. The temple was huge and a sight to behold. I was in awe of everything, and how the shopping street was so lively. I was able to buy my two brothers some souvenirs and try a new dessert. I have always seen this strawberry mochi in anime and on social media. It was a really pretty and delicious dessert. 

Strawberry mochi

First Buddy Activity in Korea

The second part of my program took place in Seoul. While in South Korea we had buddy activities every week on Monday and Wednesday. This was a really great opportunity to see more of the country. The first buddy activity was a Seoul City Bus tour where the views were breathtaking. We were able to see what South Korea has to offer, including city buildings, nature, and finally the Namsan tour. I've seen this place in K-dramas and on social media, so I was excited. By the time we got there, it was sunset and it was getting to nighttime. We didn't go up to the tour, but we saw it and the surrounding area. I took some pictures with my friends, while also looking at the view, being grateful to be able to be there at that moment. This was one of the moments that made me realize I achieved a lifelong dream. 

Breathtaking view around Namsan

Fourth Buddy Activity in Korea

Our fourth buddy activity was going to Deoksugung and Cheonggyecheon stream. It was a lot to do in one day, but going to Deoksugung was really exciting. When I knew I was going to South Korea, the history and nature were things that intrigued me. So being able to see the temples, palaces, and nature around me had me in awe. I'm not really one to take pictures, not really knowing how to pose. I get really awkward fast when it comes to taking solo and even group ones, but I wanted to remember my time abroad, especially with the new friends who made this experience more amazing. I also just try to have fun with it and live in the moment. My friends are also great hype people, so it definitely made it more comfortable for me.

Me and my friends at Deoksugung