1 week before leaving for Osaka, I start thinking about how to prepare myself for challenges I would face while studying abroad. I know that living and studying in a foreign country could be very different in many aspects in terms of living behaviors and cultural values. Luckily, as a Chinese student, I find Japanese culture to be quite similar to Chinese culture. Moreover, I have been to Japan many times to visit my relatives so I am quite confident that I’m able to adapt quickly. I learn that there are certain implicit rules in Japanese society that we need to be aware of, such as no phone calls, eating or drinking inside trains, taking your trash with you in streets, greeting people with bows when necessary, and using cash during most occasions. Living in Japan, which is a country with highly responsible, self-motivated and disciplined citizens, requires me to respect its culture and adapt its living habits. I should restrain myself from any inappropriate behavior that might cause trouble for others. In addition, I will insure my own safety studying abroad in Japan. I will keep my personal belongings safe when I am out in public.
My personality and identity might shape the way I communicate with others, solve problems, and deal with uncertainties in a foreign environment. I consider myself to be an introverted person so the biggest obstacle for me would be presenting myself to others and making new friends in Japan. It could be challenging at first but I will try not to panic and continue pushing myself to break through the limits. The lecture-based teaching method at Kansai Gaidai is quite different than Rollins, which is discussion-based with small class sizes. There is also less assessment to professors so I need to be responsible of my academic behaviors. I should keep pace with readings and learning throughout the semester. I can also utilize tutoring and other helpful services offered at the university to catch up. I will try my best to get used to it and participate in class as much as possible. People around me are other international students from all over the world or maybe local Japanese students. I will develop good communication skills with respect of different cultural backgrounds and values when I study and corporate with other students in group projects. I learn that Japanese people are polite and not as straightforward as Americans. Therefore, I should be aware of the boundaries and be respectful all the time.