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Life as an International Student at Kobe Women's University
Hi, I'm Nisa Jenisya from the Japanese Literature Department at Udayana University. I consider myself so lucky as I had the opportunity to participate in an exchange program at Kobe Women's University for a year. During my time there, I focused on studying the Japanese language and Japanese culture, with a major in teaching Japanese to international students. I learned how to explain Japanese grammar using the Minna no Nihongo book and gained experience in group teaching. Additionally, I studied Japanese linguistics and Japanese at the college level, which differs from the curriculum in Japanese schools. I also took English classes for speech and international communication. Moreover, I prepared for the JLPT N2 level.
At Kobe Women's University, I joined several clubs, including the English Circle, Dance Club, and Asia Communication. In the English Circle, we had weekly meetings for casual conversations and at the end of the semester, we went on a trip to Kaiyukan in Osaka. In the Dance Club, we practised for stage performances during university festivals and club presentations. I had the opportunity to present three times during my time there. However, the Asia Communication Club was not very active. Overall, I had the chance to explore new interests and make many friends.
In terms of academic classes, I had two Japanese language classes. One focused on writing and reading, while the other focused on listening and speaking. We had one outdoor activity each semester in the listening and speaking class. I was free to choose my destination, and I chose Atowa in Sannomiya. Atowa is an aquarium with an art collaboration and I found it exceptionally beautiful. I personally have a great love for aquariums, so I thoroughly enjoyed every section of Atowa. In the writing and reading class, my sensei invited me to watch traditional Japanese performing arts such as Noh, Bunraku, and Kabuki, and we watched them together.
As an international student under the MEXT Scholarship program U to U, I underwent several tests and interviews before coming to Japan. The selection process was for interns of the Japanese Literature department at Udayana University. I wrote an essay and participated in an interview. After the rankings were announced, I was awarded the MEXT Scholarship program U to U for Kobe Women's University. However, the journey did not end there. I had another interview with teachers from Kobe Women's University since a minimum JLPT N3 level was required for the program, while I only had an N4 level. Fortunately, the interview went well, and I successfully passed the MEXT Scholarship program U to U. I prepared to come to Japan.
I have been in Japan for a year and experienced many things that I couldn't have in Bali. For instance, as I love K-Pop, I had the opportunity to attend a concert by my favourite K-Pop group, TXT. I also visited my dream city, Kyoto, and visited Osaka multiple times, particularly Namba, known for Animate, a store catering to anime and manga fans. Fulfilling these hobbies was an incredible experience for me. Additionally, I have experienced all four seasons, and autumn has become my favourite. Reflecting on these memories fills me with joy. If I have a chance, I would love to come over again.
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UDAYANA UNIVERSITY