Student Voice: Experiencing study abroad during my final semester – Jinsol JUNG, Ewha Womans University, Korea

Jinsol JUNG from Ewha Womans University, Korea is participating in our exchange program for Fall 2024. We would like to introduce her experience at AIU.

It was the last Monday of August, 2024, the end of a month and the beginning of the week when I first arrived at AIU. 

For me, this semester is the last semester of my home university and the start of a new school. Every day is full of new challenges, and experiences.

My favorite place at AIU: Nakajima Library

I was very excited to see Nakajima Library with my own eyes – open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and beautifully designed. 

It is impressive that many of the students begin their studies before the semester even begins. The view of the forest from the outside makes me feel comfortable, and the beautiful round structure, cozy wooden desk and chair and the warm light help me concentrate on my work.  I spend my free time here alone or with my friends while doing my homework or reading books.

There are also several popular Japanese comic books available in both Japanese and English versions. It is one of my new challenges to read these comics in their original Japanese versions.

My New Experiences at AIU, Akita

It is great to learn about different cultures and foods while living with foreign students in the Tsubaki Village student residence.

Since I cook for myself in the kitchen, I have many opportunities to introduce Korean foods and learn about Japanese foods. One of my favorite memories is cooking kimchi fried rice for my friends. It was also meaningful to celebrate the Korean holiday, *Chuseok, by making bulgogi (a dish of thin slices of beef or pork which are marinated then grilled or stir-fried) and japchae (a savory and slightly sweet dish of stir-fried glass noodles and vegetables) using Japanese ingredients with another Korean exchange student.

* Chuseok: A mid-autumn harvest festival

 I also tried Japanese food like “Natto” (a traditional Japanese food made from fermented soybeans) for the first time in my life. It’s amazing to discover delicious food in another country!

It was also fascinating to experience traditional Japanese culture. I went to the ‘Senshu Hanabi‘ festival held in Akita, and the sunset, people’s laughter, and beautiful fireworks are still vivid in my memory.

Additionally, visiting the Namahage Museum and watching the impressive performances gave me a wonderful opportunity to learn about Namahage culture in Akita.

For those of you reading this, if you’re considering studying in Japan for a new experience, AIU would be the perfect place to challenge yourself! 

Thank you for reading.