Author: Kai Brudnak | Major: Supply Chain Management and Economics | Semester: Fall 2024

Taken in the midst of a hike up Kyoto’s 2nd tallest mountain

Over the course of the Fall 2024 semester, I have been studying in Osaka, Japan as a part of the Kansai Gaidai Asian Studies Exchange Program. As a proud Japanese-American, this has been an eye-opening experience that I would not trade for the world. My initial interest in the program was rooted in my desire to learn more about my own culture, experience the unique daily life of a foreign country, and interact with people from a wide range of backgrounds. Thanks to this program, I was able to accomplish all of this and more! As I reflect upon my time spent abroad, I cannot help but recognize how unique of an opportunity this has been for me academically, as well as socially. Having gone through this study abroad program, there are many lessons I have learned about international study, as well as life in general. Through all of the challenges and experiences this program has brought me, I have felt internal growth which could not have been achieved otherwise.

If I were to briefly describe the contrast of the collegiate academic experience of studying in Japan compared to the United States, I would say that exams are much more heavily emphasized in Japan. Throughout my 2 years of studying at the University of Arkansas, I have experienced a wide variety of different teaching styles and course curriculums. However, I can confidently say that most classes had examinations weighing anywhere from 20% to 40% of the final grade. In my classes in Japan, exams and large projects typically counted for at least 50% of the final grade, with some classes even reaching 90%. Much less emphasis was placed on daily work and attendance, making exam days very meaningful for student success. Another difference I witnessed in a Japanese learning environment was the control that the university had over course curriculums. Professors were ordered by the university to assign students a certain amount of homework, quizzes, and exams throughout the semester. This caused many different courses to follow a similar course timeline. Though I am unsure which method between the United States and Japan was a more positive learning environment, it was fascinating to see the different schools of thought surrounding the ideal academic experience. One last unique facet of Japanese university life was that classes began and ended with a school-wide chime played over the campus speakers. Tardiness, unexcused absence, and inability to stay in the classroom from start to finish was heavily frowned upon, highlighting an apparent cultural difference from the US.

Having experienced about 4 months of studying abroad, my advice for the next wave of international students is twofold. First, it is my firm recommendation for students to try to learn the native language of the country as much as possible, even if they are not required to. Learning the language not only opens many doors to connect with locals, but it helps international students to understand more about the culture of the country, as well as why local residents act the way they do. By learning how people communicate, I came to learn so much more about the Japanese way of thinking. For example, in Japanese, there is a separate way of communication called “keigo” which is the preferred method of speech for business and service industries. It shows respect for the person being spoken to (typically a person of higher seniority), placing them on a high pedestal while the speaker speaks of themselves in an overly modest fashion. This aspect of the language illustrates the anti-individualistic, respectful, seniority-centric culture of Japan. Another piece of advice I have is for international students to take advantage of every spare moment throughout the short amount of time a study abroad program typically lasts. For example, as the academic semester progressed, I found myself taking on more day-trips after orbetween classes, from which I gained many valuable experiences. Whether I embarked on these adventures alone or with a friend, I always found myself learning or experiencing something I couldn’t find in my home country. These moments are so precious and make every day worth so much more.

Stepping outside of my comfort zone and into this study abroad program was one of the greatest experiences I have ever had. There is so much to gain by diving into a different culture, interacting with a new crowd, and grasping the amazing opportunities presented to students by the University of Arkansas Study Abroad Office. With many different avenues to receive financial aid, there are less excuses than ever not to partake in an international study program. I am now a Japanese dual-citizen who is much more knowledgeable about the Japanese side of my identity. As I return to the University of Arkansas to continue my studies, I believe I have become a more well-rounded student and a better person as a result of my semester abroad