Before I Came to Study in Japan
Upon the completion of my bachelor’s degree in Law and Ethics, I wanted a deep dive into the public policies concerning sustainability and the environment and I was looking for an opportunity to gain experience in sustainability related fields. Before this program, my knowledge of Japan was rather superficial. However, I always wanted to explore the unique mix of traditional and ultramodern culture of the country.
This wish became reality through a partnership between Sofia University and CERAP, my home university. As it was the farthest I would be from home, I was particularly thrilled about the whole trip, the new encounters exploring the island of Sado and create unforgettable memories.
Experiences in Japan
- Interviewing the residents of Sado Island: We conducted a survey to gather information about the quality of life, tourist attractions, and sustainability efforts on the island.
- Explore natural and exotic landscapes : one of the many sites we visited was the Toki no mori Park, where we were taught about the crowned Ibis and its natural habitat protection.
- Meeting with the local authorities : we payed a courtesy visit to the Mayor of Sado Island M. Ryugo Watanabe, in which we discussed the needs and opportunities of the Island and the protection of Lake Kamo.
- Presentation to High school students : we had the opportunity to present our countries agricultural products to students majoring in agriculture. We visited their farm, picked vegetables and sold them in the neighborhood.
- Presentation and suggestions for the promotion and preservation of Sado Island: We reflected on the island’s potential and suggested initiatives and infrastructures to develop the social, economic and environmental stake of the island.
Memorable Incident
On my way to Japan, due to traveling circumstances, I couldn’t take the train to my final destination in Tokyo. All my tools for direction including my phone let me down ; leaving me by myself to figure out where to go. I then approached a young lady for help. I didn’t expect her despite me being a stranger and the language barrier to guide me to a convenience store, rent a power bank for me, call a cab, and make sure I get safely to my destination. This particularly moved because it reminded me of the hospitality and the warmth in treating foreigners back in my country.
How I Changed During My Study Abroad
More than the study period, my trip to Japan in itself was a mind-opening experience. From the people, the language, the behaviors to the streets, attractions and climate ; my journey was filled with warmth and beautiful episodes.
Travelling alone in an unknown area felt thrilling. It allowed me to enhance my real-life communication skills and connect with people. The discovery about the many cultural differences and preference between countries was eye-opening.
On this journey, building a confident approach of life was my greatest lesson. Facing challenges optimistically, stepping out my comfort, cultivate tolerance and teachability ; some of these priceless characters allowed me to flourish in some practical areas of growth I had not worked on in the past.
I gained knowledge in fields I wouldn’t approach before ; I got inspired by people’s inventions, career and actions, I was encouraged to share my ideas and contributions in creating impactful projects.
Future Goals and Prospects
In the beginning of this program that coincided with my master’s degree, I was still skeptical about studying on sustainability policies enforcement. This study program helped me realize the more that our environment needed protection and people willing to oversee the actions carried for its preservation.
More than a study program, this project stands as the starting point for a journey of valorization, advocacy and activism for the preservation of the biodiversity and a sustainability lifestyle.
I intend to further my studies after the completion of my current degree in the perspective of sustainability and innovative means of preservation in international law.
Message to students considering studying abroad
To all students considering studying abroad, I have three words : Go for it !
The knowledge, experience culture, encounters are those valuables that are off-trade and that shape you for a lifetime. Studying abroad is a multi-rewarding experience that gives you the opportunity to discover yourself, reinvent yourself and grow ; and you don’t want to miss it !
About My Home Region in Africa
I was born and raised in the economic capital, Abidjan, in the southern part of my country Côte d’Ivoire. In the lively neighborhoods and urban busting towns, the exotic pathways to the Ebrié lagoon, the Banco forest ; Abidjan offers a beautiful brink of nature and a touch of modernity with the residentials Riviera, Cocody districts and the Plateau administrative headquarters.
The amazing dishes and street food stalls along the roads perfectly coat the warmth and happiness of the people. Hospitality is a nature and generosity a language to express delight and appreciation.
