My Experience in the Student Exchange Program at Shinshu University

• Posted by: Admin
• Rabu, 6 Maret 2024
• Has been read 137 time(s)

Hello, I am Ni Putu Maori Agustini, a student majoring in Japanese Literature at Udayana University. In my 7th semester, I had the opportunity to participate in the student exchange program at Shinshu University located in Matsumoto, Nagano, Japan. I participated in the exchange program for 2 semesters. This program not only offered Japanese language courses specifically for international students but also general courses attended by Japanese students, provided the exchange students' Japanese language proficiency was sufficient. Therefore, before starting the classes, there was a test to assess the Japanese language proficiency of the exchange students.

During my studies at Shinshu University, the teachers and staff were very supportive in helping exchange students. There were even tutors, Japanese students assigned to assist exchange students throughout the program. When preparing to live in Japan, the tutors would accompany the exchange students to take care of administrative matters such as at the civil office, setting up bank accounts, insurance, and other necessities. This was very helpful for the exchange students.

Academic activities at Shinshu University were quite interesting because, in addition to studying Japanese culture and language, I could also take other courses in a broad range of fields. In the second semester of this program, I tried taking a film history course, which I found unique because it taught filmmaking techniques by showing clips from various films. Although it was quite challenging because the lecturer used a high level of Japanese, I felt it was excellent for gaining new experiences.

Shinshu University also offers various clubs related to non-academic activities. One of the clubs I joined was Hanas. Hanas is a club established by Japanese students with the aim of inviting international students to participate in various activities such as trips to tourist spots or participating in cultural festivals. By joining this club, I could enjoy the natural beauty and culture of Nagano, and it also provided an opportunity to build new relationships between international students and Japanese students.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed my life during the student exchange program at Shinshu University. In addition to the tranquil atmosphere of Matsumoto city, which is surrounded by mountains, the local residents were also very friendly. There are hot springs in the Asama area and the Matsumoto Castle tourist site. Therefore, if you want to enjoy the natural beauty and culture of Japan, I believe Shinshu University is an ideal place to participate in a student exchange program.