Study abroad destination: University of Utara Malaysia/Universiti Utara Malaysia(Malaysia)
period : 2024Years9Month30Day~2025Years3Month1days (approx.5months)
Major/Year: Faculty of International Communication, Department of English Communication 3Years YMSan
Reasons for wanting to study abroad (Before）
Ever since I was in the Faculty of Education, I had wanted to improve my English skills, and when I learned about the Global Research program, it was what prompted me to transfer departments and study abroad. One of the reasons I chose Universiti Utara Malaysia was that it offered a comfortable environment, with ample time to apply. I was also interested in seeing for myself how Malaysia, a multi-ethnic country, is realizing a society of coexistence.
What was particularly memorable and what did you do there?Action）
Before leaving,YouTubeI watched videos of students enjoying campus life. When I actually arrived, I was initially confused by the fact that the facilities at both the university and the dormitories were older than those in Japan, and there were also some inconveniences that come with living in the countryside. Teachers and students often didn't arrive on time for classes, and I was often surprised by the cultural differences. However, I gradually came to understand that "this is the way Universiti Utara Malaysia is," and I was also intrigued by the university's system, which takes Muslim culture into consideration, with Friday and Saturday being weekends.
I took classes in Malay, culture, English communication, and intercultural business, and my professors supported me in choosing courses in line with my major. I made an effort to smile and speak up proactively in class, and the local students naturally started talking to me, which helped me quickly fit into the environment. I also had the opportunity to interact with international students from China, which gave me hands-on experience of learning how to communicate across cultures.
In the "English for Small Group Communication" class, we had to memorize a huge amount of English text for our group presentations. The pressure from the group leaders sometimes brought me to tears. However, determined to push myself beyond my limits, I memorized the material over and over again, even reciting it before bed. After our group presentations, the professor told me, "Your group's presentation was the best," which taught me the importance of pushing past my limits and achieving my goals. I also shook hands firmly with my group leader, deepening our bond. While Kansai University of International Studies often requires assignments tailored to each student's proficiency level, the university I study abroad at requires greater initiative and flexibility. Being in such an environment was a valuable experience for me.
Results and changes from studying abroad (After）
Through my time studying abroad, I feel I have acquired not only language skills but also flexibility. The lecture style and living environment are different from those in Japan, and I strongly felt the importance of adapting to the culture. At first, I was hesitant to speak up in English, but the more courage I mustered up and took action, the more connections I made with those around me expanded, and my resistance to using English naturally disappeared.
I also realized that before studying abroad, I had somehow assumed that Japanese culture was superior and underestimated Malaysians. However, many of them are very kind and considerate to others, and I learned a lot from their humanity. Seeing up close how people coexist while respecting each other in a multi-ethnic society was an experience that brought about a major change in my values.
Message to students considering studying abroad
When you first start studying abroad, you may struggle with the differences in the environment and feel like returning to Japan. However, it is important to gradually adapt to the culture with the mindset of "I want to try living not as a Japanese person, but as a member of this country." I believe that cross-cultural understanding can only be truly realized by actually living in the local area and going through trial and error. Even the tough times will definitely lead to growth, so please be brave and give it a try.
