Kenny Mak

Kyushu University, Japan
 

I heard about the New Colombo Plan shortly before I went on the UTS In-Country-Study abroad program, coincidently to Japan. I decided to apply for the scholarship as it would be of great benefit to my time abroad, enhancing the opportunity to learn about the culture through participation of local events, exhibitions and other cultural activities. 

 

What I loved most about Japan was being in a society with many cultural aspects different to my own. The way design permeates daily life, the convenience of the vending machines, beautiful colours of the changing seasons and politeness of Japanese people, are just several aspects of Japan that inspire me. Mixing with other international students was also a highlight, as it was interesting learning about other student perspectives and lifestyles. I lived in Fukuoka city, where I enjoyed going to local shrines and festivals, eating at yatai (night-time street stalls that serve local cuisine), cheering the famous local baseball team at the Dome, taking photos of the contemporary architecture and learning local dialect. 
 

Apart from some language obstacles and cultural surprises, like having to meticulously sort my rubbish, I settled in quite smoothly. The living costs were affordable. I was fortunate to stay at the university dormitory and have a private, albeit small, apartment including bathroom and balcony. Services, restaurants and shops were easily accessible. I received excellent support from the attentive staff in the international student program at Kyushu University and the tutors ensured that I had a Japanese student supporter. I had many chances to make friends with other local supporters and friends from other countries through the program. I also applied for a conversation partner and host family through the university, whom I met throughout the year and shared many fun local experiences. The university offered a diverse range of clubs. I joined the orchestra and piano club, which were other great ways to really immerse in the local culture.

 

I studied Japanese and cultural subjects with an International program called Japan in Today’s World (JTW) and had teachers from America, Australia and Japan. Although classes were taught in English, each teacher had his or her own teaching style that I learned to adapt to. I especially enjoyed a subject on Japanese linguistics that was conducted by a Japanese professor in English. The professor did not invite much class discussion, (common in Australian classrooms), but gave highly engaging lectures. The (JTW) study trips were a fantastic way to learn about various aspects of Japanese culture first-hand.

 

I think that receiving the NCP Scholarship is beneficial to future employment seeking because of its prestige and indication of my international experience.

 

I think the scholarship does encourage Australian students to study in places like Japan, which strengthens cultural links and understanding between the two countries. Studying in another country increases one’s tolerance towards other cultures and acceptance of differences.

 

Wherever you choose to go, it will be full of stimulating, challenging and rewarding experiences that will make you grow and learn about yourself and the world around you. It’s a chance of a lifetime to immerse yourself into an unfamiliar environment, which is scary, but exciting and worth it.