Don't just travel Japan. Live it.

I went on the Year in Japan (YiJ) program my senior year of college (2015-2016) and it was by far the best year of my college career. Hesitant to be away from home for a long period of time, I was actually only planning to do half of the YiJ program (i.e. Fall semester only) and come back to Illinois, but within a matter of weeks I was enjoying myself so much that I asked to extend my stay and complete the full year long program.

First, the location, Kobe, is an amazing place to live. Kobe boasts a beautiful mountain view no matter where you look, it's just a walk to the sea shore, and there are tons of shops, restaurants, and malls in the area that you can easily buy anything you need [or want]. Additionally, no matter what part of Japan you're looking to explore, the area is extremely conveniently located in between all of the major destinations within the Kansai region of Japan (e.g. Osaka, Nara, Kyoto, etc.), and even Tokyo is a very quick plane ride away. The program itself also provides you more than enough time to travel and explore.

Second, the staff running the YiJ program are incredibly helpful, kind, and supportive. They will handle and work you through any concerns or difficulties you may have regarding your health, adjusting to life in a foreign country, or simply learning how to get along with the people around you. The on-site staff, the Japanese teachers, and my resident adviser were always there to listen and answer my questions.

Last, the students at Konan University, particularly the ones who frequent the Global Zone [which hosts the majority of international student events], are incredibly warm and welcoming. They are all eager to both teach incoming students about Japan, as well as learn about other cultures. Interacting with the Konan University students and getting to know each of them is what truly made my trip fulfilling and worthwhile.

That being said, I won't say my time in Japan was a fairytale or any kind of long vacation. Because the length of the program is a full academic year, it offers you the opportunity to genuinely experience Japanese society. My Japanese improved not only through taking classes, but also by working through conflict and exchanging ideas with my host family, my teachers, and my Japanese friends. The YiJ program showed me everything I love about Japan, just as it showed me the parts of Japan I can't always agree with. I think this was one of the most valuable parts of my study abroad. This program gave me the chance to not only explore Japan, but also become a part of society and experience everyday life. I absolutely recommend the Year in Japan program to anyone who is looking to deepen their cultural understanding of Japan.