Message from Students

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University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

[ YiJ Program ]Miriam Horsley

Though it feels like I just arrived in Japan, I can already say that studying abroad was the best decision I could have made in terms of both academics and personal growth. The program at Konan has kept me on my toes with Japanese and cultural classes, and my opportunity to live with a host family, work and interact with Japanese students, and immerse myself in daily life has been invaluable to learning about my passions and myself. There is no better way to challenge yourself than to be thrown into a new environment, and with the network of support provided at KIEC students have every opportunity to grow.

Living abroad is difficult, but for those who desire to explore their strengths and passions, the failures will be more valuable than an easy victory. In my short time here I have not only improved in Japanese but have also been able to challenge my comfort zone, explore a new culture, make incredible friends, and see a different corner of the world. All of these things add up to unforgettable experience, and even if my future doesn’t take me back to Japan, the memories and knowledge that I have gained here will remain with me throughout my life.

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University of Hawaii

[ YiJ Program ]Ryan Kino-Spelman

The Year-in-Japan Program is by far one of the best decisions I have made in my life. Being a Japanese major, I am really enjoying this opportunity to immerse myself into Japanese culture because I get to practice Japanese every day. Immersion is the best learning method! The homestay experience in particular is a great way to surround yourself in the culture and language. It is also a good way to create deep ties with Japan. I am impressed with how all of the host families are so caring, helpful, and experienced with the YiJ Program. I give much thanks to my host family for making my YiJ experience so wonderful!

Furthermore, I love the variety of unique experiences the YiJ Program offers. There is truly never a dull moment with all the great friends I have made since arriving in Japan. The field trips, festivals, and club activities are unforgettable. Each day here presents a new set of rewarding challenges, and I encourage anyone who is serious about learning Japanese to take a brave step forward and experience the YiJ Program. I have made friendships that will surely last a lifetime as well as deepened my love for Japan.

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University of Leeds

[ YiJ Program ]William Roberts

In my opinion the Year-in-Japan study abroad programme at Konan University is the best possible way to learn Japanese as I can use and practice my Japanese language skills every day both in and outside the classroom. This programme also creates incredibly rewarding experiences as after I’ve finished class I can utilise what I’ve learnt to open up more doors in daily life and greatly improve my communication abilities.

I am loving my experience so far as Japan is an amazing place to live and to study and everything you could possibly want is available at Konan. I really enjoy spending time with my new Japanese friends and everyone from the staff at KIEC to the lecturers at Konan are so welcoming and willing to help you with anything. For these reasons and many more I am having a fantastic time at Konan University!

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