Thank you, Japan

I miss Japan. Coming back to New York City was bittersweet. Although I missed my friends and family, I also miss the new relationships I made in Japan. When I signed up for the DOC, I hardly knew anyone. Most of the students going were part of the International Relations Club and had thus already known each other beforehand. I was scared, nervous, and undoubtedly lonely at first. I had always been a shy student, reluctant to raise my hand in class or go up to new people. This dialogue changed me in the sense that it forced me to gather courage and initiate that “Hello” and it is because of that simple “Hello” that wonderful friendships were born.
My goals are still the same. I still aspire to attend PA school and become a physician’s assistant. I was one of few people on the dialogue who want to enter the medical field. I was surprised at myself for how well I got along with people who do not share the same or similar career/academic interests as I did. I had always thought it’d be difficult to have conversations with others who do not share similar interests but in reality, it makes conversations that much more thrilling. I was able to learn about things I would have never thought about and had a lot of fun doing so as well!
I had always known that the world was huge and that there were many different cultures across it but it really hit me when I traveled to Japan. I was able to have the opportunity to understand a bit of the mindset of the people from Japan. The reason why they do certain things and the way they view certain things as well. The dialogue really helped me comprehend the vast differences across cultures and the impact it has on the way people think. The single greatest benefit of studying abroad is meeting people and creating friendships that you’ll never forget. I am glad to have created bonds with people I have met on the dialogue, from both Northeastern and Japan, and I know that these bonds will continue to carry on.
My favorite experience was going to Tokyo Disney Sea. It was my first time going to any Disney related theme park so I was super excited. Most of the Northeastern students opted to go as well as Meiji supporters (some of them even skipped class for the trip!). The whole day consisted of us riding rollercoasters and eating. Embarrassing pictures were taken but it was just a fun day all around.
To people who are on the fence about going on a DOC, I say do it but make sure it is somewhere you want to go. I know that my experience in Japan was going to be amazing even before I got on the plane because I had always wanted to go there. If you’re unsure about the place, do some research beforehand and hype yourself up! Think about the beautiful sites, food, and activities that are available there. And don’t worry about making friends or getting along well with people because I guarantee that you’ll leave that country with more friends than you went there with.
As for my next destination, I want to study abroad in Australia. I have always wanted to visit the country because of how beautiful it is and how much nature it has. I also love animals and have always wanted to see a koala in person.