Daily Life
In Osaka on an average day.
The best moments of your study abroad experience will most likely come from your daily life experiences. Whether you have the option to live with a host family, or to live in dormitories, you will have both challenges and joys. Since I stayed with a host family, I'd like to tell you about my experience, and recommend homestay programs to you.
However, some students would feel more comfortable in a dormitory, with a more "independent" feel. Also, some programs of study abroad may not offer homestay. For those of you who prefer the dormitory or apartment lifestyle, please see this page:
Finally, I think it should be mentioned that even though you probably came to Japan for an adventure, studying should be a sizeable part of your activities abroad. However, some, though not all, of your teachers will be a little easier on you, understanding that you want to make the most of your time in Japan. The advice we were given by the school was not to max out on credits, but instead to take the lesser amount, in order to better enjoy our surroundings. I think this was good advice and want to pass it on. Above all I want to say: don't mistake study abroad as "not counting"--it does appear on your transcripts -- but also don't let yourself get absorbed in work and forget to enjoy the beautiful and exciting world around you.
Along those lines, it's probably a bad idea to get a part-time job. I don't think anyone would recommend it, and if you live with a host family, you are not allowed to be employed. Dormitory students, however, can seek employment after filling out the correct paperwork, which takes about half a semester to finish processing.
Many students looking for a little extra money to help offset their costs become involved in English tutoring. Since I do not have this experience, I cannot tell you much about it. As with any unofficial job, be wary and be careful if you choose to do this.
Please e-mail megan_anne2004@hotmail.com with any questions or comments.