Before I Came to Study in Japan
Before coming to Japan, I knew I wanted my exchange semester to be something that would really push me out of my comfort zone. As part of my BCom International Business degree at Stellenbosch University, we had a long list of partner countries to choose from. A lot of students chose places like the United States, Canada or somewhere in Europe. Those are all great options, but I wanted something different. I wanted to be somewhere that didn’t feel familiar at all. A place with different cultural values, different social norms and a different language. I felt that real growth would come from being in an environment that challenged me on every level.
Japan stood out because everything about it felt new and exciting. I loved the idea of living somewhere that would force me to adapt and really learn about myself. I also genuinely enjoy parts of Japanese pop culture, like J-pop and the few animes I’ve watched. Even something as simple as seeing Tokyo in movies and online videos made me curious. It always looked fast, bright and full of things to do. In a way, that energy encouraged me. I wanted to experience it for myself and make the most out of my exchange. That mindset is what brought me to Sophia University.
Experiences in Japan
- Visiting Tokyo DisneySea and reconnecting with my inner child through a theme park experience we don’t have back home.
- Taking a short trip to Mount Fuji with friends and enjoying the natural beauty in a peaceful town.
- Learning to use public transport like trains, buses and Google Maps, which is very different from home.
- Exploring Shibuya at night and seeing the crowds, lights and endless restaurants and stores.
Memorable Incident
One of my favourite memories from my time in Japan was going to the Kawagoe Matsuri in Saitama. It was the first cultural festival I had ever attended, so everything felt completely new to me. From the moment I arrived, the atmosphere was incredible. There were food stalls everywhere, music playing, people laughing and so much to take in at once. The festival floats were the highlight. Watching them move down the streets with music and performances made me feel like I was seeing a part of Japan’s history right in front of me.
What stood out the most was how much pride and joy the local community had in the festival. People of all ages were involved and everyone seemed so connected to the tradition. Seeing how Japan celebrates its culture in such a lively way made me appreciate the country even more. It showed me how beautifully Japan blends the past with the present. It was one of those moments where I felt grateful to be here, experiencing something I would never see at home.
How I Changed During My Study Abroad
Studying abroad in Japan has made me a lot more independent. At home, I relied on my family and friends for guidance and emotional support. They are still there for me, but being here has taught me how to handle things on my own. I must budget every month, buy groceries, clean my space, do my laundry and create routines that help me balance school, friends and personal time. These small things have made me feel more confident in my ability to take care of myself.
This exchange has also made me more curious about the world. Since this is my first time leaving my home country and only my second-ever flight, everything feels new. Meeting other international students and hearing about their lives, their travels and their cultures has inspired me. Many of them have seen so much of the world while this is my first big step. Instead of feeling intimidated, it has made me want to explore more and learn more.
Coming from a single-mother household in South Africa, opportunities like this never felt realistic. Being here has shown me that the world is much more accessible than I thought. I have also become more self-aware and more considerate because Japanese society is very mindful of etiquette and public harmony. Even learning how recycling works here has changed the way I think about everyday life. Overall, this experience has helped me grow into a more capable, curious and aware version of myself.
Future Goals and Prospects
When I go back home at the end of the semester, I will be starting my final year of my undergraduate degree. If all goes well, I hope to graduate by the end of 2026. One of my biggest goals is to apply for the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s “PIONEER” program, which focuses on public innovation and e-governance. The program takes place in Belgium, Germany and Estonia and I plan to work hard to earn a spot and hopefully a scholarship. After living in Japan, I really want the chance to live abroad again and learn in another international environment.
In the meantime, I hope to do a few internships to gain more practical experience. I am still figuring out my exact career path, but I am open to different options. I could see myself working in the finance sector, in public innovation within my home government or even in a multinational organisation. No matter where I end up, I know that this exchange has shaped how I think about my future and what I believe I am capable of achieving.
Message to students considering studying abroad
If you have the chance to study abroad, take it. It doesn’t matter where you choose to go or where you come from. What matters is what you decide to do with the opportunity. Immerse yourself, stay curious and be open to change. Studying abroad will teach you things about the world and about yourself that you can’t learn any other way. It is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have.
About Your Home Region in Africa
I grew up in the coastal city of Cape Town, where there is an abundance of natural beauty. Places like Table Mountain, Lion’s Head, Kirstenbosch, and all the amazing beaches are very popular visiting spots. But what makes it special is the vibe. The people are warm and always ready to have a good time, whether it’s a hike, a beach day, or just a chilled braai (barbeque). There’s this nice balance between being outdoorsy and having a fun social life. And of course, South Africa loves its sports, especially rugby, which brings everyone together. It’s a place that feels exciting and grounding at the same time.
