Study A-Blog: Covering the Basics of Study Abroad

By Isabella Rusate  

Hello from Japan! I am a study abroad student currently embarking on a new adventure in Tokyo this semester. This series of articles is intended to help inform others interested in studying abroad by offering personal experiences, advice, and answers to common questions. As someone who has never left the country before this trip, I encountered many “firsts” while navigating this unfamiliar territory. For this first article, I want to introduce myself and give a brief overview of my motivations and more insights into this process.  

Who?  

My name is Isabella and I am a senior at USJ in the honors program, majoring in English and minoring in studio arts. This is my last semester, and I will be finishing my minor while abroad. Choosing to spend my last semester abroad was often questioned, as the last semester is typically crucial for internships, student teaching, or job searches. While I felt that this was the right time for me, these concerns are all valid and should be discussed with a career counselor, professor, or someone else you trust. Most importantly, however, ask yourself! Establish your goals beforehand. If a full semester abroad does not feel right, there are always shorter summer sessions available that typically run for two weeks or so.  

What? 

“What?!” was the first thing my parents said when I told them I wanted to fly halfway across the world by myself and stay there for three months. 

When?  

I selected to study abroad during the fall semester. I began my application process in March of the same year, although I recommend starting the process even sooner! Some of the other study abroad students here began their application a year in advance. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time, as many documents can take a while to process such as your passport, certification of entry, and student visa. Every country is different and may require different or additional forms. There are also many scholarship opportunities for students studying abroad, but deadlines may pass quickly if you begin your search too late.  

Where?  

I am staying in a student dormitory in Sumida, Tokyo. Nestled in a comfortable spot next to the giant Tokyo Skytree and just a train ride away from major destinations like Akihabara, known as “Electric Town,” the bustling shopping streets of Asakusa, and the iconic Shibuya. There is no shortage of places to explore, and plenty to buy! When visiting a city like this, people often try to see as much as possible to avoid leaving with regrets. Something that helped me was compiling a list of destinations by location. When I am in the area, I can check my list as a reminder! 

Why?  

Why Japan? I have always been fascinated by the vibrant culture, streamlined  public transportation, and the cleanliness and safety of the city. There are new things to experience here every day and even getting off at the wrong station can lead you to a giant shopping mall you never knew existed! It’s vibrant, fun, and overwhelming at times. It’s essential to ground yourself in a new environment with a culture so unlike your own. Japan was undoubtedly my first and only pick as a study abroad destination. Research goes a long way, so if you are on the fence about a destination, it helps to compare aspects such as affordability, safety, and culture before making such a big decision.  

How?  

The study abroad program at our school is API, or Academic Programs International. API, along with Rachel Payne, USJ’s study abroad coordinator, made this trip possible. I plan to discuss more about “how” I studied abroad in a later article. For now, if you are interested in studying abroad at one of the many amazing destinations available, reach out to Rachel Payne at [email protected]. I haven’t met a single person who has regretted studying abroad. It’s never too late to explore and start your own journey!