Before I Came to Study in Japan
Studying abroad is a compulsory part of my degree, and it was one of the reasons I chose this programme. However, Japan always felt like a distant dream rather than a guaranteed reality. My decision to study in Japan is rooted in both personal history and shared motivation. Growing up, my dad and I often talked about visiting Japan, its culture, landscapes, and way of life fascinated us. Being able to study here now feels like honouring that shared dream. Considering the personal and health-related challenges I faced during my studies; there were times when coming here seemed impossible. This makes my presence in Japan feel not only meaningful but deeply affirming.
My motivation for choosing Japan specifically comes from its striking contrast with South Africa. Coming from a heterogenous, diverse society, I was curious to experience a culture often described as homogenous, with deeply rooted traditions, social norms, and a unique sense of community. I wanted to understand how history, identity, and modernity coexist here, and how these differences shape everyday life. Japan’s infrastructure, efficiency, and societal rhythm also stood out to me as something I wanted to learn from firsthand. Emotionally, arriving in Japan has been overwhelming in the best way. I feel grateful, humbled, and excited. I am aware of how different this environment is from what I know, but that difference is what motivates me. Studying at Sophia University offers more than academic growth, it gives me the opportunity to reflect on my own identity, expand my worldview, and experience a dream that once felt unreachable.
Experiences in Japan
- Managing finances as well as balancing school and trying to explore Japan.
- The transport systems, SA doesn’t have much of a public transit system.
- The culture shock going from a very heterogeneous to a homogenous country. This includes the language barrier etc.
- My experiences are far, I have travelled around Tokyo
- Visited Okinawa
- Experienced a different way of learning and being tested
- I saw the nature part of Japan and the urban part.
I hope to be able to explore more.
Memorable Incident
One of the most memorable incidents during my study abroad in Japan was my first visit to Shibuya Crossing. As I stepped into that iconic intersection, I was overwhelmed by the sheer number of people. The bustling crowd was a stark contrast to the relatively quieter streets of South Africa.
In that moment, I felt both insignificant and empowered. The immense population of Tokyo highlighted how small I was in the grand scheme of things, yet it also reminded me of the vast, interconnected world we share. It made me realize that while I am just one individual, my actions and ambitions are part of a much larger tapestry of humanity. This experience was comforting, as it broadened my perspective and reinforced that everyone, regardless of where they come from, is striving for their own goals. It’s a memory that continues to inspire and motivate me in my journey.
How I Changed During My Study Abroad
Studying abroad in Japan has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. Coming from South Africa, I expected cultural differences, but I did not anticipate how deeply they would shape my personal growth, mindset, and skills. Before participating in this program, I often approached new situations with hesitation, but living in Japan has pushed me to become more independent, adaptable, and open-minded.
One of the most significant areas of growth has been my communication skills. Although learning Japanese was challenging at first, the immersive environment encouraged me to practice daily. As a result, I have gained practical language abilities and a deeper appreciation for cross-cultural communication. Navigating daily life, from asking for directions to participating in group projects, helped me develop patience, confidence, and clarity in expressing myself.
Academically, I have expanded my knowledge of Japanese society, technology, and global perspectives. Japan’s emphasis on precision, discipline, and collective responsibility has influenced how I approach my work and studies. I have adopted better time-management habits and a stronger sense of responsibility toward group tasks.
Beyond academics, I have grown personally. Living away from home taught me resilience, financial responsibility, and problem-solving skills. I learned to embrace unfamiliar environments and celebrate differences instead of fearing them. This experience continues to shape me even now, as I strive to integrate the values of respect, perseverance, and cultural understanding into my daily life.
Overall, studying abroad in Japan has made me more confident, globally minded, and motivated to continue learning and growing.
Future Goals and Prospects
In the future, I hope to use my study abroad experience in Japan as a foundation for both my academic development and my professional career. As I complete my final semester of BCom International Business at Stellenbosch University, with majors in Strategy & Innovation and Political Science and a minor in Marketing, my time in Japan has strengthened my interest in working in environments that require cultural awareness, strategic thinking, and global perspective. Academically, this experience has motivated me to pursue further studies that focus on international strategy, innovation management, or global policy. The Japanese approach to long-term planning, technological advancement, and societal coordination has broadened my understanding of how different economies and political systems shape business decisions. I intend to incorporate these lessons into my research projects and future coursework, especially in areas such as global market entry strategies, international relations, and cross-cultural management.
In terms of my career path, I aim to work in a field where international cooperation and strategic innovation are central, such as consulting, global marketing, or policy analysis. My exposure to Japan’s unique business culture and communication style will enable me to navigate diverse professional environments with confidence. I hope to contribute to organizations that value global thinking, multicultural collaboration, and creative problem-solving. Ultimately, I want to use my study abroad experience not only to build a career that connects South Africa with the broader global community, but also to bring fresh perspectives to the fields of strategy, innovation, and international business. Being in Japan, makes me want to stay longer in Japan, hopefully I will find some career opportunities here and continue to, even for a little grow in Japan.
Message to students considering studying abroad
If you are considering studying abroad, my biggest message is, do it. Jump at the opportunity, even if it feels intimidating. Leaving your home, your family, your friends, and even the small familiar comforts, like your favourite supermarket, is not easy. But that leap into the unknown is exactly what makes the experience so rewarding.
Studying abroad will expose you to new cultures, new people, and new ways of thinking. Whether you come to Japan or travel from Japan to a place like South Africa, you will quickly realise how different countries can be. Those differences might feel overwhelming at first, but they are also what make the journey meaningful. More than anything, studying abroad teaches you about yourself. You learn how adaptable you are, how resilient you can be, and how much you are capable of handling on your own. The growth you experience extends far beyond academics, it shapes your confidence, independence, and worldview.
So, take the chance. Be brave enough to step out of your comfort zone. The world is much bigger than you think, and studying abroad is one of the best ways to discover both the world and you.
About Your Home Region in Africa
Anyone that knows me knows that I love South Africa with my whole heart. It’s incredibly warm and vibrant, filled with diverse cultures, rich heritage, and welcoming people. It’s truly a melting pot of traditions, where different backgrounds and ethnicities come together. This diversity sets it apart from more homogenous countries like Japan.
Nature is another highlight: from the breathtaking beaches of Clifton in Cape Town to the majestic Drakensberg Mountains, and the iconic Table Mountain. You’ll also find vibrant art scenes in Johannesburg and Cape Town, and the warmth of Durban’s beaches. For wildlife enthusiasts, Kruger National Park offers unforgettable safari experiences.
Despite some challenges, the genuine hospitality and curiosity of South Africans make it a truly unique and beautiful country.
