During my semester abroad, I stayed with a Japanese host family, the Kusakabe family. Though I was nervous at first, I believe that having lived with them made my study abroad experience much richer and more educational. There were advantages and disadvantages to choosing homestay, but in the end, I feel that the choice I made was the best one for me, and I have no regrets. I was lucky enough to be placed with a family with whom I really connected. Even now, we are trading e-mails and letters, and I hope to be able to visit them again after I've finished all of my education.

A picture of my homestay room:

I hope that most people going to study abroad will be able to live with a host family. While homestay may not be right for everyone, I believe that most students can adapt and have a good time of it if they put in an effort to get along with their host family. Host families sign up for the program because they are interested in meeting you and want to participate in a cultural exchange with you. So, don't be shy!

Here are what I consider the pros of homestay:

A site I recommend for learning more about what it's like to be in a homestay is At Home in Japan. It's a long site, but if you are going to live with a host family, it's important to consider how you can do so productively and without being rude.

As you can see, I am a homestay promoter. However, there are reasons why people may not wish to do homestay, so please also see the Living on Your Own page.

Please e-mail megan_anne2004@hotmail.com with any questions or comments.