Before I Came to Study in Japan
After high school, I have to admit that I did not know much about Japan. Most of my knowledge came from watching anime and some random videos. But everything changed because of Egypt-Japan University for Science and Technology. Of course, I knew that this university was a partnership project between Egypt and Japan, but I never expected to see so much Japanese culture inside the campus, but I ended up being totally wrong, I still remember my first day at the university: there was an event where all the clubs were introducing themselves. The busiest one was a club where students surrounded anime posters and figures, and some were even wearing traditional Japanese clothes. Also, the Japanese language classes and cultural events in the university, such as tea making, made me more interested in Japan. All of this raised my curiosity and love for the country. additionally, I really became more obsessed with Japan because it is one of the leading countries in the world in my field of study, energy resources engineering, and I discovered the Green Engineering Department at Sophia University. I realized that this department would be very beneficial me, and for my future. also, Sophia University has rich international community and rich cultural exchange opportunities which made it even more attractive for me to join. So thanks to Sophia University, my dream of visiting Japan and continuing my studies came true.
Experiences in Japan
- Soba Making Workshop: Made soba ourselves from buckwheat soba in a group, cooked together and connected with Japanese and international students
- Design Festa Participation: Participated in the biggest art event in Asia-live painting, installations, fashion shows-and joined the ONE Coin Runway, proudly showing my kimono on stage.
- Discovering religion: Visited temples and shrines in Kamakura and knew more about Buddhism and traditional Japanese religions.
- Playing Soccer: I enjoyed playing soccer at events all around Tokyo also on Sophia campus in a soccer course. I made new acquaintances, including some from Egypt, my home country.
Memorable Incident
One of the moments in Japan that I will never forget was completely by mistake. I was walking around Tokyo and without realizing, I found myself in a quiet neighborhood, far from any of the normal crowded streets and it felt like I was the only foreigner there.
While walking, an old Japanese couple saw me and came over with warm smiles. They started talking in Japanese, but my Japanese was not good but I just knew few simple words and tried to have a conversation but what really surprised me was how patient they were. They didn’t get annoyed and just kept smiling, repeating words slowly, trying to help me understand. This old man knew a tiny bit of English, so he mixed Japanese and English together, and I did the same. His wife also joined in, also laughing whenever we all failed to understand each other. Somehow we had a simple conversation which made me very happy, also When I told them I was from Egypt, they got very excited and started asking questions about the pyramids. Their kind natures honestly touched me. I always heard people saying that Japanese individuals avoid tourists or do not like interacting with foreigners, but this moment proved the complete opposite and that taught me that not everything on the internet is to be taken for granted and the only way to find things out is to try and experience it
How I Changed During My Study Abroad
Before coming to Japan, I was super excited, but at the same time, super nervous. My family and friends always told me that living in a completely different country and culture, new traditions and the language barrier is so much and not easy for anyone to take. Honestly, I didn’t know how I would deal with being so far away from home, and sometimes I even wondered if I could manage at all.
It felt new and somehow overwhelming when I first came here. Even simple things that one had to do, such as finding a way around campus, taking the trains, or even buying food items, were big challenges initially. I remember i was very really nervous about everything, but I had the energetic spirit to just go and try anything new to me and slowly, I started to get used to things here, and with each simple things I do like ordering correctly at a restaurant or finding my way to some new place I gained more confidence.
Meeting new people made a huge difference of course making new friends was little bit hard for me at the begging but as time passed it was easier for me and of course that changes according to each person personality, what helped me is that I joined some events, and hung out with people in the dorms and that really made me realize how adaptable I could be and how much fun it is to step out of my comfort zone.
I look back and realize how m Scary and intimidating it was first, but it became one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I became more confident about myself and that gave me a push to take on new challenges
Future Goals and Prospects
In the near future, I am planning to continue my studies in Japan by pursuing a master’s degree, ideally through a MEXT scholarship. This will be very ideal for me since I already had the opportunity to discover Japan and get used to the new culture, so it would not be a problem for me. If I got accepted, that would help me to benefit and focus more on my studies. Also, I want to further improve my Japanese, not just to increase my chances of getting accepted for the scholarship but also because I gained affection for the language and, in the short term, to enjoy studying and living in Japan and to be able to connect with people and understand the culture on a higher level.
Beyond that, my study abroad experience showed me how much I’ve grown and how adaptable I can be. Living in a foreign country and stepping out of the comfort zone made me eager to take this mindset into my future career.
I am passionate about renewable energy and would like to help in developing these ideas all around the world. I wish to work internationally, applying what I have learned in my experiences either in Egypt or Japan. Whether it’s joining international companies like Siemens or Toyota, where I will make a meaningful impact.
Message to students considering studying abroad
If you are thinking about studying abroad, you have to try this experience. I was afraid at first, as it was a new country with a new language and culture—but it turned out amazing. You’ll discover so much about yourself and the people around you from all around the world. Don’t be scared to make mistakes or to get out of your comfort zone; every challenge is an opportunity for self-development. Take all the opportunities that come your way, join events, make friends, and enjoy every moment. Trust me, this is one of the most amazing experiences you’ll ever have.
About Your Home Region in Africa
I think Egypt is definitely famous, and you’re probably familiar with the pyramids. What’s great is that the Pyramids area now is improved and organized, making it a much better experience than before. Additionally, there is a new museum that recently opened, and it has incredible artifacts, making the visit even more fascinating. Other than the pyramids, Egypt has beautiful beaches and agricultural lands, and it is also rich with different cultures. It’s definitely worth visiting.
