I studied at East China Normal University in China for three months, where I learned alongside global peers. These three months were a period during which I was able to create many unforgettable memories, not only in terms of my research, but also in my daily life.
As I have majored in Chinese history, visiting historical sites during my free time was one of the most refreshing and enjoyable experiences. Sometimes I explored on my own, but I also visited many places with friends. Being able to experience China’s long history firsthand and to interact with others beyond differences in culture and language left a strong impression on me. Chinese cuisine was delicious no matter where I ate, and the ingredients and flavors varied greatly from region to region. Although Chinese food is very popular in Japan, I learned that what we eat in Japan represents only a small portion of the vast variety available in China. While the dishes served in authentic restaurants were excellent, my favorite was a simple dish I had at the university cafeteria. It is stir-fried eggplant and eggs served over rice.
In my academic life, I was able to deepen my understanding of education while interacting with students from more than 20 countries and regions. For example, during a class discussion on the topic of education policy, I was particularly impressed by how the discussion became multifaceted, as each student shared perspectives shaped by their own cultural backgrounds and upbringings. I felt that being in an environment where I could directly observe and learn about the cultures, lifestyles, and diverse viewpoints of people from around the world was something that would be difficult to experience if I had stayed only in Japan. In addition to my studies, I also had many opportunities for communicating with many friends, such as participating in club activities and sharing meals with friends and professors after class. I especially enjoyed chatting with friends during breaks.
Through these three months, I was able to create many unforgettable memories. I hope to visit many countries in the future to reunite with the friends I made during my time abroad. I also learned that what I have seen, heard, and considered common sense is not always correct. By spending time with people from diverse cultural backgrounds, I realized the importance of actively communicating in order to understand others, and of trusting the information I gather through my own eyes and ears. Overall, I am truly glad that I participated in the CAMPUS-Asia6 Program. I intend to apply the experiences and skills I gained during this study abroad program to my future career.
At 重慶(Chongqing)
My favorite lunch at ECNU!
