Tag Archives: Japan

Josh Nguyen

Josh Nguyen

NAME:  Josh Nguyen

MAJOR: Computer Engineering

PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange – Kyushu University, Japan, 2024-2025

EMAIL: josh.nguyen@sjsu.edu

 

 BIO: Tell us about you and why you chose to study/intern abroad or away?.

My name is Josh Nguyen and I am Vietnamese-American currently studying as a 4th Year Computer Engineering Major at SJSU. I am an avid programmer and person who loves going to my neighborhood parks to play pickleball. My primary motivation for studying abroad was to explore the vast world outside of the US, connect with new people, and to learn more about Japan’s unique culture firsthand as I was fascinated by it for a long time by then. I also believed that if I were to ever go to Japan, it would be preferable to go as a student and while I was still young rather than going as a tourist or when I was older. This way, I can make many connections and decide my future options early on and explore the world more freely.

 What other leadership, volunteer, or job experiences have you had (if any)?

I have worked a few jobs in various fields that require different unique skills. The first was an internship at the Italian-American Heritage Foundation where myself along with a small team designed, programmed, and completed various Italian-themed online games to unite this small-yet-inspired community in spite of the coronavirus pandemic. The second was at San Jose City Hall under District 5 Councilmember Magdalena Carasco where I worked with a small team in creating community projects, public service announcements, in order to unite the community and its constituents. Most recently, I had the opportunity and the honor to present at Osaka World Expo 2025 in Japan and speak on behalf as well as serve as a bridge between Japan and the US on the topic of plastic waste in the ocean. 

 GOALS: What were your goals for studying or interning abroad?

Having always been close in proximity to the support of my family and friends, another goal for studying abroad was discovering myself as an individual and as a citizen of the broader world. I felt studying abroad would not only throw me in an environment where I have to support myself, but I can also build upon my character by immersing myself around new cultures, people, and perspectives. In relation to that, I also set goals towards connecting with the culture itself by learning the language, learning how the locals go about everyday life, adapting, and integrating myself into Japanese society. Finally, one of the leading motivations in combination of everything previously mentioned is creating meaningful and lasting international friendships. By the end of my study abroad program, I have not only grown academically and as an individual, but also got to better understand its culture, learn its language enough to confidently converse, and forged many new bonds from a number of countries that I can carry with me for life.

 ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad?

I was able to take a number of courses within the Computer Engineering major confines while at Kyushu University. Though the classes proved to be interesting, I quickly noticed that the difference in educational systems is quite apparent with Kyushu University in Japan and San Jose State University in the US. For one, Japan is more lecture-heavy and less practical hands-on when compared to the US. Labs and homework assignments are less of a priority while exams are often a larger factor in determining your final grades. Due to the quarter-based schedule of Kyushu University, most of my classes had a total of around 5 lectures and 2 exam dates per quarter with the same 1 hour 30 minute time blocks per class session. However, in Japan, the lectures went far more in depth with the basic and essential concepts rather than just giving students the formula without explanation. In short, the workload is significantly less compared to the US, but the specificity of the exams and pace of the class are considerably harder.

 COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: How has your immersion impacted your perspectives on the world?

I came to Japan with a fundamentally basic knowledge of Japanese culture. Since living there, I got to understand the underlying thoughts not just from experiencing them first hand but also hearing out the Japanese thought process from my newfound friends. Learning about the differences in culture really made me think about why Japan is better than America in some aspects, such as low crime rates and trash-less streets, while lacking in others elements, such as the unacceptance of modern technology. Not just that, I also got to learn more about the world and global diplomacy at work. This was extremely prevalent in my once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of presenting at Osaka World Expo 2025. Particularly, my speech was in collaboration with other Japanese and Korean students who recognize an existing plastic waste issue in relation to the ocean–like in Tsushima Island in Japan–and want to work to make the world a better and cleaner place by extending our hands between international borders. It taught me that the relationships between countries are extremely valuable and global efforts can be made by keeping them.

 CAREER: What skills did you learn/sharpen during your study or intern abroad experience?

Coming to Japan alone and largely unaware of how the society functions, I think the most helpful skill that I had to employ and sharpen was definitely open-mindedness. Doing so, in turn, allowed me to further understand the culture, learn the global perspectives of the locals and other international students, and easier integrate into life abroad. Studying abroad also gave me a first-hand experience of living as an individual in the world. I had to manage my life all by myself. My time, money, and even the people I connect with. It included everything from getting the paperwork to go to Japan, to waking myself up and eating proper meals, and to figuring out my social and support system. Now, I feel that I understand the global picture better, understand myself more as a person, and what my life might look like as an adult in the near future.

 PERSONAL GROWTH: What was the biggest impact that your study or intern abroad experience had on you?

My study abroad experience has given me a greater sense of self-confidence and self-sufficiency. Prior to coming to Japan, I was worried about whether I would be able to make friends in Japan, especially knowing the fact that I was essentially starting from zero. My worries were immediately proven to be unnecessary with the fact that I was able to make a lot of friends–international and Japanese–from the get-go, thus, increasing my self-confidence. Moreover, I feel as if I have a greater understanding of the world and its overall perspective. Japan along with many other countries I have visited while abroad have very interesting societies, political landscapes, and cultures. Immersing myself in these different environments gave me notice of ways how America can and should change for the better, how countries can collaborate together to better the world, and a broader perspective on the current state of world affairs. 

 IDENTITIES: Which identity(ies) impacted your study/intern abroad experience? How? 

  • Race/Ethnicity

 IDENTITIES: How did the identities you selected change or impact your experience abroad?

As a Vietnamese-American, I had some very interesting personal experiences in Japan. On one hand, people did not believe I was an American or acted in stereotypical American ways because in appearance and mannerism, I was Asian. Therefore, easing into Japanese culture, which in some aspects could be very similar to Vietnamese ones, was somewhat of a smooth transition to me. It also led to some humorous encounters with full-time Vietnamese students at my exchange university wondering why I was not speaking more Vietnamese to them despite chatting a little bit and looking the part. On the other hand, coming as a student from America, I chose that as more of my identity as it better reflected my own personal background and my way of thinking. Though it came with some hidden undertones such as being ‘financially well off’ and such, it also gave me the chance to show them where I am from and correct the common misconceptions about America and its culture. In the end, I think I was able to actually do so. As proof, I brought two friends back with me from Japan to tour America and proudly show my home.

 FUTURE: How has studying or interning abroad prepared you for your future?

Studying abroad has given me the opportunity to connect with people from around the world, offering me different perspectives on societal, social, and academic sectors of life. As a citizen of the world, I want to utilize these connections and viewpoints in working towards a more peaceful and unified future. On a personal level, being thrown into what is essentially a new life has given me the opportunity to see how I would fare by myself. Creating support systems, adapting to society, and finding my way around life in a foreign land are all things that, shall I do it again, I have greater confidence in doing.

TIPS: What advice would you give to a future Global Spartan?

My advice to a future Global Spartan is to take the plunge and be open minded. Beyond all of the paperwork and preparation, there is an unforgettable experience. Do not be afraid to try new things, explore new places, and converse with locals! Going into a foreign land means you get to see the differences in cultures, values, and ways of life. While abroad, take the time to travel and explore, be open to learning about the perspectives of local and other international students, and be open to new perspectives that you have never seen before, and grasp opportunities when they come. Be prepared to live a different lifestyle than you do back home and truly enjoy the country for what it has to offer.

Danieli Acuat

Peach picking with other interns after attempting to see Mount Fuji

NAME: Danieli Acuat

MAJOR: Business Administration/Management

PROGRAM: Global Internships SSA: Sungkyunkwan University ; Global Internship: Tokyo, Japan: The Intern Group via ISEP Summer 2024, Summer 2025

EMAIL:  danieli.acuat@sjsu.edu

BIO:

My name is Dani, and I’m a third year Business Management major. I studied abroad at SKKU during the Summer of 2024 and completed a 6-week internship in Japan in the Summer of 2025. Since I was born and raised in the Philippines, moving to the U.S. already felt like a study-abroad experience for me. Even though I had just immigrated, I wanted to take it a step further by immersing myself in another culture. 

Studying abroad had always been one of my goals since high school because I wanted to experience how it would be like to live independently, as I had always lived at home and commuted to school. I often told myself, “I can travel in the future, but when will I ever again have the chance to study abroad?”

In the summer of 2024, I studied abroad in South Korea as a “test run,” and it turned out to be an unforgettable experience. Later on, I discovered that internships abroad were also possible. This gave me a new opportunity, not only to live in another country, but also to experience a different work culture firsthand. It was perfect, since I wanted to learn Japanese and also explore which country would be the best option for me to study abroad for a full semester.

GOALS: What were your goals for studying abroad?

One of my biggest goals was to become more independent and experience what it’s like to live in a different environment for a long period of time. Since I have always lived at home, I wanted to experience what it would be like to live with other people and step outside of my comfort zone. For me, it meant being open to new and sometimes uncomfortable situations, something as simple as sharing bathrooms with others pushed me to adapt and helped me grow in ways I hadn’t before.

Another goal of mine was to improve my Korean and Japanese language skills, or simply to learn a new language in general. I wanted to apply what I studied in the classroom, since I believe people learn more quickly and effectively when immersed in the environment and culture itself. I found that I was able to practice this more in Japan, as people spoke to me in Japanese, whereas in Korea, most responded in English.

 PERSONAL GROWTH: What was the biggest impact that your study abroad experience had on you?

The biggest impact my study abroad and internship experience had on me was being able to immerse myself in a different culture, and most importantly, build meaningful relationships. It allowed me to learn new things that I never would have discovered just by searching online. (I got tons of recommendations for food spots!)

The interactions I had with my coworkers gave me new perspectives and challenged me to adapt to different social dynamics. At first, it was difficult to join their conversations since I was shy and the youngest among them, but with their support, I was able to adapt, build confidence, and communicate better and more effectively in the end. 

One of the most rewarding parts of the experience is that I still keep in touch with everyone in the company, including the CEO, which shows how valuable and lasting those relationships have become.

 ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad?

In Korea, I took a Beginner Korean Language course that fulfilled 2 elective units. Since it was a summer session, I only chose to take one class, which was held in the afternoons.

In Japan, I interned full-time in Business Operations at a food tour company, working from 10 a.m to 6 p.m, Monday through Friday. Even though it seems like it leaves little room for exploring, I actually found that I was able to do a lot more in Japan than Korea. I became more productive, started my days earlier, and even had extra free time during holidays. 

This experience taught me that academic and professional growth isn’t just about completing tasks or checking items off a list as it is about focusing on the quality of work I produce and the impact it has. During my internship, I initially thought that everything was easy and laid-back, but over time I realized that I wasn’t fully considering other perspectives until I received feedback. This encouraged me to reflect and improve my approach to work, not just by finishing tasks, but by actively seeking ways to refine and add value to my work.

 CAREER: What skills did you learn / sharpen during your study abroad experience?

Throughout my internship experience, I was able to significantly improve my presentation skills, which had been one of my biggest weaknesses. I had the opportunity to present twice in the company to propose my plan and to share my final results. As a business major, this was essentially helpful, as I can now use these skills in class presentations and any group projects. This experience became a stepping stone for me in gaining confidence to work in professional settings as well as preparing me for future opportunities. 

In addition, I was able to learn useful Japanese phrases through daily interactions. I often looked them up on the spot, such as situations like ordering food, which helped me retain what I learned.  

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: How has your immersion impacted your perspectives on the world?

Being immersed in another culture and environment significantly opened up my perspective even more. I learned the importance of learning the community’s practices ahead of time and understanding cultural differences. I realized that people grow up with different perspectives due to the environment and people they are surrounded with, so it is important to approach interactions with respect, openness, and a willingness to learn from others.

FUTURE: How has study abroad prepared you for your future?

Studying and interning abroad broadened my perspective of the world and helped develop my adaptability and communication skills. This experience gave me the opportunity to explore new fields and gain international exposure. By meeting people from different backgrounds, I was able to gain insights from cultures all over the world, which deepened my understanding of global perspectives.

Most importantly, my summer study abroad and internship experience has prepared me in getting ready for a semester long study abroad!

TIPS: What advice would you give to future Global Spartans?

Dream big and don’t be scared to step out of your comfort zone!

K. Seiji Kawamura

Kintsugi Workshop (repair broken pottery w/gold powder glue)

NAME: K. Seiji Kawamura

MAJOR: Japanese

PROGRAM: Faculty-Led Program (FLP) – Explore Japan thro Art – Summer 2025

EMAIL: keith.kawamura@sjsu.edu

BIO: Japanese American, major in Japanese, KSJS radio DJ host of “Sounds of Japan” every Sat 6-8 on 90.5 fm / ksjs.org. Photography and RTVF minor. Interested in opportunity to do manga, indigo dying, pottery, kintsugi… hands on.

GOALS: What were your goals for studying abroad?

Actually do Japanese art (instead of seeing it in a museum) to grow in cultural awareness of Japan.

 PERSONAL GROWTH: What was the biggest impact that your study abroad experience had on you?

Networking with Canvas Gate (in Kyoto) and SJSU students.

 ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad?

Art 178 (fieldwork)

Participate (i.e. wood block printing–attended lecture, choose an image, traced on wood, carved wood, mixed pigment with glue, applied to wood, pressed into paper).

Wrote a reflection of my hands on experience and Canvas Lecture readings on wood block, manga, kintsugi, etc. and submitted assignment.

 CAREER: What skills did you learn / sharpen during your study abroad experience?

Collaboration (watch when others are doing tea ceremony; mix, pour, and serve tea when my turn.)

Learn to make a Glide Show presentation with Adobe Express

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: How has your immersion impacted your perspectives on the world?

Japanese are a collective society and value harmony in the group more than individual expression (as in the US).

FUTURE: How has study abroad prepared you for your future? I hope to contact Canvas Gate (in Kyoto) for opportunities (i.e., homestay, going to a college in Japan, getting a job in Japan).

TIPS: What advice would you give to future Global Spartans?

Find a country you are interested in.

Match the dates and expenses with what is in your budget.

Attend any promotional meetings. Ask questions. Apply.

Keep your gpa as close to 3.0 or greater

Alexander Melgar

Taken in the midst of Shimanami Kaido, an 80+ km bike ride from Onomichi to Imabari, and crossing the Seto inland sea. Taken on Innoshima, Hiroshima Prefecture.

NAME: Alexander Melgar

MAJOR: Global Studies

PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange – SJSU Exchange – Okayama University (EPOK) – Spring 2025, Summer 2025

EMAIL: alexander.melgar@sjsu.edu

BIO:

I’m Alex, a Global Studies Major. I studied abroad because I’ve always wanted to experience life in another country, but that’s difficult to do without working there, which means you need to already know the language, the norms, and have connections. With this in mind, study abroad is a rare opportunity to throw yourself into something completely foreign to yourself and your life up to that point, without the dangers of failure: there’s enough handholding to make sure you survive, but enough room to experience things as they are.

GOALS: What were your goals for studying abroad?

My goals while studying abroad were relatively simple:

  • To see if I liked Japan, given I’ve had a long interest, and would possibly want to go back for other extended periods of time.
  • Try new things
  • Learn the depth of cultural differences that can exist, and get a better feel for human nature, as well as social structuring of life and society

 PERSONAL GROWTH: What was the biggest impact that your study abroad experience had on you?

I feel like in a lot of ways I’ve become a new, more open person. Beforehand, I was a lot more quite with my friends, but now I feel a lot more confident, as well as having better identified some more areas of myself, my skillset, and my personality that I’d like to keep working on going forwards.

 ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad?

My Academic experience was varied. Some classes were incredibly simple, straightforward, and were ultimately easy, but others, namely language courses were challenging. Okayama University has Language classes that range from zero knowledge up through about high school level, and each course is 4 units in a quarter, which equates to 8 hours per week. These classes are incredibly intense, and the particular class I was in, the second level, is the border between beginner and intermediate. It’s intense, a little random, and I tried my best, but it was a bit much.

 CAREER: What skills did you learn / sharpen during your study abroad experience? With my broadened horizons, I got a much better feel for cross-cultural communication, given I found it very easy to surround myself with non-americans at almost all times. I improved my Japanese ability a lot as well, on account of the complete immersion, as well as the intensive classes I was taking. Through volunteering at L-Cafe, I learned a lot more about teaching, and just how much work it takes to make a lesson plan, keep people engaged, and ultimately get points across as well as develop skills.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: How has your immersion impacted your perspectives on the world? My immersion has greatly changed my perspective of the world: I spoke to so many other exchange students, namely from Europe, who gave me lots more eyes into the range of cultures that exist than I’d originally hoped for. I got to see discussions, hear new languages, and forge friendships with people I’d never thought I’d meet, and it broadened my horizons, as well as allowed me to put a face to so many places I’ve only occasionally read the names of, or seen in history lessons.

FUTURE: How has study abroad prepared you for your future?

I wanna go back…

I feel a strong pull back to Japan, having lived there, made use of their univeral health insurance (I broke a toe), seen and lived through the low rent prices, been able to ride my bike anywhere in the city with safety and ease, seen the ease of getting part time work, as I saw with my fellow, though longer term exchange students, and got to use the train system, I really miss a lot of elements that made life easy, nice, convenient, and worry-free, even with things sucked (Broken toe).

TIPS: What advice would you give to future Global Spartans?  

This is a little long, but generally:

Buy a bike and don’t rent one, plan leaving a lot sooner than I did, say hi to people all the time, go to L-cafe as often as you can, sign up for all the Fujimoto sensei trips you can, as well as all of her classes. Join a club or at least try, befriend Sam the american, befriend Varun (he’s chill), apply for a library card asap, stay the full year and not only half if you can, don’t fly into Momotaro cause it’s expensive, travel as much as you can, go to Lamu for groceries, get a membership at great pumpkin (karaoke), rely on Saida Sensei cause she will offer and is really nice (she bought me tape when I broke my toe), get LINE working ASAP, rely on your EPOK buddy even if they can’t speak english (worst case scenerio use google translate), go to memory (it’s a small restaurant behind the library with incredibly good food), and remember the trash times.

Vireak Nop

My dorm’s very own Halloween costume party!

NAME: Vireak Nop

MAJOR: English/Professional and Technical Writing

PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange – Kwansei Gakuin University, Japan – Academic year 2024 – 2025

EMAIL: brandon.nop@sjsu.edu

BIO:

Hello! My name is Vireak, but I also go by Vir (read like Sir but with a V). I’m an English major plus Japanese language minor who had the opportunity to study abroad for the past year. As for why I decided to go through with this experience? There’s a lot to say, and it’s heavily nuanced. But, if I had to keep things brief–it was to challenge myself in both academic, personal, and cultural ways. Of course, I want to immerse myself in the language, culture, and REALLY try to grasp the language in its natural environment. At the same time, it would be my first experience living alone and navigating my daily life by my own accord. I believe I got a lot more out of my experience aside from just academics.

GOALS: What were your goals for studying abroad?

Academically, I wanted to improve my Japanese and quickly get to a conversational level. I feel satisfied with the point I had reached after my Spring semester there, but I am always looking forward to learning! For my personal goals, I wanted to see how I would hold up living independently. Because I didn’t have my parents physically with me, I was able to further develop basic skills like cooking, navigation, and trash management. It also let me experience living with peers similar in age to me, and seeing what I do and do not tolerate or compromise on when it comes to living with housemates. I learned a lot about myself while living abroad.

 PERSONAL GROWTH: What was the biggest impact that your study abroad experience had on you?

Living in Japan for almost a full year, I think the biggest change for me was that I began to grow an appreciation for the mundane. The everyday life that no one really thinks about, at least here in America. Maybe it’s a form of romanticization, but I was appreciating the short walks to school, the small kitchen talks, and the common bus or train ride. Not everything in life has to be something grand or spectacular, it can be something small that just feels nice. Like waking up to a pleasant morning breeze. I felt as if I could truly live in the present without stressing about the future, unlike how I was living back home. I truly understood what it meant to be “living your 20s” for the first time.

 ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad?

When it comes to taking courses abroad, it is expected to put in more effort on my end since the classes are not in my native language. While it definitely did take an initial adjusting period, I ended up being able to find my balance shortly after. Since I only lived a 10 minute walk away from the campus, I would do self-studying in the dorms and then put it into practice immediately with peers. The experience made me realize I needed to take the initiative more, so I am now seeing aspects of my SJSU life that are benefitting from taking that first step. For example, emailing a professor in advance to ask some questions I have, or reaching out to potential outgoing-abroad students who are too hesitant to start that conversation. I used to be in that same position, so I feel accomplished that I finally overcame my own hesitancy and have been able to apply it to SJSU and daily life.

 CAREER: What skills did you learn / sharpen during your study abroad experience?

Aside from learning to be the one who takes that first step, I have further sharpened a skill of mine that is vital in Japan: reading the room, or “reading the air” as the Japanese equivalent would say. I find that it has made me more keen of my surroundings, and in turn has made me a bit more empathetic. It’s a skill that has helped tremendously in my personal life, and helped me gain a deeper appreciation for my parents and all they have done.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: How has your immersion impacted your perspectives on the world? Since I’m interacting with both native students in Japan, and exchange students from around the world: I learn and experience a ton of differences in how we think and interact, but I also see just how much we also have in common with each other. Growing up in San Jose, I have the privilege to have grown up in a primarily Vietnamese American community and perhaps get too comfortable with it. As a result, my knowledge and understanding of other cultural backgrounds is pretty surface level. Now, I feel as if my mind and eyes have both been open to the richness and beauty that makes our world so diverse.

FUTURE: How has study abroad prepared you for your future? Studying abroad gave me a glimpse into a new road I could potentially follow. While my major and minor degree might not necessarily be connected, I’ve been looking into ways I could potentially utilize both of the skillsets I’ve learned in the pathway towards both degrees. Even if we don’t think about it in terms of the type of job I could get: it taught me skills that allow for me to be more flexible.

TIPS: What advice would you give to future Global Spartans?

As cliche as it sounds: Just do it! If I hesitated any longer, I would have gone through my life with so many regrets. Of course, you’ll have regrets as your abroad program comes to an end, but it’s an experience you can only have now! So just do it! The SJSU Study Abroad department can answer any questions you have, and there’s plenty of students who are probably wondering the same things as you!
​​
​​​​​​​Also, knowing some practical skills wouldn’t hurt. Know how to say/ask a few things in the language of the country you’re going to, pick up some cooking skills, and most importantly: make friends!

Dionato Pautin

Graduating from Sungkyunkwan University in Seoul, South Korea.

NAME: Dionato Pautin

MAJOR: Business Admin/Mgmt Information Systems

PROGRAM: Global Internships – Sungkyunkwan University, South Korea – SSA, Tokyo, Japan – The Intern Group Summer 2024, Summer 2025

EMAIL: dionato.pautin@sjsu.edu

BIO:

My name is Dion and I am a third year student pursuing a degree in Management Information Systems. For years I have always consumed media about other countries, immersing myself in different cultures, and learning their practices. Ever since I learned what the world had to offer, I have always wanted to travel and explore countries other than my own. When a friend told me about SJSU’s Study Abroad Program I was blown away. The program had so many options and it was also affordable. For me, it was a no-brainer to take a leap of faith and finally go overseas. Traveling is something I love  and to be able to develop my academic and professional career while doing it makes me love it even more.

GOALS: What were your goals for studying abroad?

I saw studying abroad as a great way to develop myself academically as well as professionally. For me, I wanted to network with people from around the world, engage in student culture, and experience a work environment different from the United States. However, personally, I just wanted to travel. Before studying abroad, I had never stepped foot outside the country, giving me the drive to explore and wanting to see what the world had to offer.    

 PERSONAL GROWTH: What was the biggest impact that your study abroad experience had on you? The biggest impact my time abroad had on me was adapting in a fast paced environment. From stepping into the professional field to embracing a new culture, I became more confident in my ability to learn quickly and adjust to new challenges.

 ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad? When studying abroad in South Korea, I took a beginner’s language course in Korean. Learning a language in its native country is very different from learning it on your own. In Korea, I could instantly apply what I learned by interacting with locals and reading signage. This in turn also made the class more engaging and fun.

 CAREER: What skills did you learn / sharpen during your study abroad experience?

This was not only my first time interning abroad but my first time being an intern in general. As someone who had never stepped foot in a professional environment it felt overwhelming at first, especially since I was overseas. However, as time went by I started becoming more comfortable. My coworkers taught me so many things both professionally and culturally. Not only did I learn how to be productive in a professional working environment, but I learned so much about other people from around the world. 

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: How has your immersion impacted your perspectives on the world? When studying abroad in South Korea, I took a beginner’s language course in Korean. Learning a language in its native country is very different from learning it on your own. In Korea, I could instantly apply what I learned by interacting with locals and reading signage. This in turn also made the class more engaging and fun.

FUTURE: How has study abroad prepared you for your future? Studying and interning abroad prepared me superbly for the future. It taught me how to communicate with others in different countries and how to embrace different cultures. Most importantly, it taught me how to adapt.

TIPS: What advice would you give to future Global Spartans?  

Some advice I would give to a future Global Spartan is to learn some of the culture and language of the country you want to go to. Navigating the country can also be stressing so being prepared with the local currency is a must. A little research on the country’s systems and how others respect each other go a long way. Most importantly, have fun, meet new people, and embrace what the country has to offer.

Andrew Rivas

On a group day trip chilling with the Nara deer

NAME: Andrew Rivas

MAJOR:  Business Admin/Mgmt Information Systems

PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange –Kwansei Gakuin University, Japan – Spring 2025

EMAIL: andrew.rivas01@sjsu.edu

BIO:

I’m Andrew, a 4th year Management Information Systems major and Im from San Jose. I chose to study abroad because the idea of it fascinated me, I wanted to learn about a new culture, make new friends, and overall have amazing stories to remember/tell about later on in life. Ive been to Japan 2 times before studying abroad here, first time with my family, and second time alone. I was intrigued by this country from the moment I stepped foot outside of the airport, as many others have been as well. Having the opportunity to study abroad here was something I didn’t know existed but as soon as I learned about it I instantly jumped on the idea and did everything I could to study abroad here in Japan. I whole heartedly believe this was a great decision and I would encourage anyone who is on the fence still to go ahead and do the exchange.

GOALS: What were your goals for studying abroad?

Before studying abroad my goals were quite clear for myself. Personally, I wanted to experience everyday life in Japan, learn about their customs and culture, make new friends, and improve my language skills. For my academic goals, I wanted to take courses that would help me understand the culture and language better, and I also wanted to see what university life in Japan was like to help me decide if I might want to pursue higher education there in the future. Professionally, I hoped to build skills that would be useful for my career, like being able to adapt to new environments, communicate across cultures, and gain experience that would help me in working with people from different backgrounds.

 PERSONAL GROWTH: What was the biggest impact that your study abroad experience had on you?

The biggest impact that my study abroad experience had on me was how much I grew as a person. Living in Japan pushed me out of my comfort zone and showed me that I can handle challenges on my own in a completely new environment. I became more independent and confident in myself, especially when it came to navigating daily life, communicating in another language, and adapting to unfamiliar situations. Meeting new friends from both Japan and around the world also opened my mind to different perspectives and helped me appreciate how diverse and connected the world really is. Overall, studying abroad gave me a stronger sense of who I am, made me more open minded, and motivated me to keep exploring and learning from the world around me.

 ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad?  

During my time studying abroad, I took a variety of courses including Cultures in the USA, Climate Justice, Japanese Regular (Level 2), Environmental Issues in Modern Japan, Japanese Pop Culture B, an SDGs course, and Manga: A Cultural History. Taking this wide range of courses gave me the chance to explore both cultural and social topics while also continuing to build my Japanese language skills. To make sure I achieved academic success, the main strategy I used was time management. I wrote down everything that was due and kept track of assignments and deadlines, which helped me stay organized even with a busy schedule. I also did my best to participate in class, ask questions, and connect with classmates, which helped me better understand the material. This experience has impacted me by improving how I manage my time and approach my studies. I feel more confident in handling a heavier workload, and I’ve also gained a broader perspective that I can apply to my courses here at home.

 CAREER: What skills did you learn / sharpen during your study abroad experience?

During my study abroad experience, I was able to improve a lot of important skills that I know will help me moving forward. One of the biggest skills I developed was adaptability. Living in a new country meant I had to adjust to a different culture, language, and way of doing things, which taught me how to stay flexible and open minded. I also improved my communication skills, both in Japanese as I practiced using the language every day, and in general by working with people from many different cultural backgrounds. On top of that, I got better at time management and organization since I had to balance my coursework, exploring Japan, and spending time with friends. I now feel more confident managing a busy schedule and working with others. Overall, my time abroad gave me valuable experience that has helped me grow both personally and professionally.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: How has your immersion impacted your perspectives on the world? Being able to spend a semester in Japan really opened my eyes and took me out of a tourist mindset. I was able to enjoy the country in a deeper way and learn so much about it through the amazing people I met and the experiences I had. I also got the chance to meet people from many different countries who were doing the exchange program with us. Hearing their stories and seeing how they shared their own cultures was eye opening and allowed me to learn so much more about the world than I would have if I hadn’t studied abroad. This experience showed me that there are many different perspectives and ways of life, and it made me appreciate the importance of being open-minded and understanding towards others. It helped me see the world as more connected, and it made me want to keep learning from people with different backgrounds wherever I go.

FUTURE: How has study abroad prepared you for your future?

Studying abroad has prepared me for my future in many ways. It taught me how to adapt to new environments, communicate with people from different cultures, and stay open minded when facing challenges. Living in Japan gave me the chance to build independence and confidence in myself, which I know will help me in both my personal and professional life. I also gained experience working with people from many different backgrounds, which is valuable for any career in today’s global world. On top of that, I strengthened important skills like time management, organization, and problem solving. Overall, studying abroad gave me a broader perspective that I will carry with me into my future goals, whether that’s in higher education, my career, or my personal growth.

TIPS: What advice would you give to future Global Spartans?

The advice I would give to a future Global Spartan is to really keep an open mind and embrace every opportunity that comes your way. Studying abroad goes by quickly, so make the most of your time by trying new things, meeting new people, and stepping out of your comfort zone. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, especially when it comes to language or cultural differences, those moments are where you’ll learn the most. I would also recommend staying organized with your academics so you can balance your studies while still having time to explore and enjoy your host country. Most importantly, take the time to connect with both local students and other international students, because those friendships and shared experiences will end up being some of the best parts of your time abroad.

Redge Tolentino

This one was taken in Gunma where I drove my dream car.

NAME: Redge Tolentino

MAJOR: Mechanical Engineering

PROGRAM: Global Internships – Japan – Summer 2025

EMAIL: redge.tolentino@sjsu.edu

BIO: I am currently a Senior Mechanical Engineering Major at SJSU. Before I entered my senior year, I wanted to experience what it would be like to live and be in a different country other than my own. My goal was to broaden my connections and experience new perspectives on how I should approach the industry once I graduate.

GOALS: What were your goals for studying abroad?

My goal was to create connections and gain new perspectives on how things are done in different countries. I wanted to observe the lifestyle of the people going about their day and pay close attention to the good and the bad. My hopes were to apply all the things that I could learn in order to somehow make a better difference back home. From an engineering standpoint, my focus was to learn more about the efficiency of the Japanese transportation system and how we can hopefully implement the same standards here in the bay area.

 PERSONAL GROWTH: What was the biggest impact that your study abroad experience had on you?

The biggest impact would be the development of my own initiative and adaptability in any environment. I learned what I am capable of knowing I can compete at an international level. My time living in Japan will be a moment in my life that I will never forget. I was able to create lasting memories and at the same time, enhance my career trajectory for the future.

 ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad?

Though I did not get an internship in my specific field of study, it was still a valuable experience to work with an IT company. Since my internship was a digital nomad program, I had the freedom to work wherever I wanted to. Through the suggestions of one of the internship coordinators, I was able to find a workspace at the Tokyo Innovation Base where I met a lot of people who worked in diverse backgrounds and studies. I was able to see all the different start-up companies launching in that shared office space. At the same time, I was also doing an online class during my time in Tokyo, which kept me focused on the work that I had to get done each week. Now with a proper place to do my work, I did my best to go to the office 4 days a week with 2 days dedicated to the task I was given for my internship, and the other 2 for completing my work for school. 

After returning from my stay in Tokyo, I now have a better sense of confidence in myself. I was able to complete both an internship and class while being in a different country where I didn’t know anyone. I am proud of myself knowing I can confidently approach strangers and make a connection from there.

 CAREER: What skills did you learn / sharpen during your study abroad experience?

I learned how to be more confident when making new connections. Being in Japan and not knowing how to speak Japanese is a challenge despite their best effort speaking english when talking. But having the confidence to speak what little Japanese I knew allowed me to make new friends and connections. I can now confidently say that I have connections around the world.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: How has your immersion impacted your perspectives on the world? After spending time among the people in Japan, I noticed that the majority of them prioritize working towards the collective good rather than their own self interest, perfecting the quality of their work and taking pride in it, and the continued support of innovation. My immersion in their culture created a shift in my perspective and made me realize the key components of what keeps our country behind. As Americans, we need to strive and take in these qualities and realize that other countries do it better than us.

FUTURE: How has study abroad prepared you for your future?

I learned confidence and respect goes a long way. Having confidence alone can lead you to conflict with others by not treating your differences with respect and understanding. I believe these two things should

TIPS: What advice would you give to future Global Spartans?  

Being a Global Spartan is a once in a lifetime opportunity. The experiences that you will have are one to remember for a lifetime. My advice is to take the leap because a chance like this does not come by that often.

Danrielle Cruda

Supporting our friend, Shingo, on the KGU football team at their first game of the season!

NAME: Danrielle Cruda

MAJOR: Business Administration/Marketing

PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange – Kwansei Gakuin University, Japan – Spring 2025

EMAIL: danrielle.cruda@sjsu.edu

BIO:

Hello! I’m Danrielle Cruda and I am a 4th year student studying Business Administration in Marketing. I like to label myself as a creative individual who explores all aspects of art, whether that be pottery to painting with acrylics and oils. A huge part of my identity derives from my passion for art. I love to try new foods, embark on spontaneous adventures with my friends, travel, and appreciate the mundane in everywhere I go. I am a strong advocate for living life to the absolute fullest. 

As a Filipino-American daughter who shares the first-gen experience, I always possessed a strong sense of curiosity in culture and tradition. Growing up around the Bay area helped fuel my desire for community and diversity. For as long as I can remember, I dreamed of visiting Japan and immersing myself in Japanese culture. I wouldn’t say I was an “otaku,” but I loved to learn the basics of the language and watch Japanese media. I watched anime, studied simple phrases and terms, and took note of all the food and places I wanted to experience one day. Upon entering my first year of college, I was encouraged by my brother to approach the study abroad booth at the Freshmen Resource Fair. I was very hesitant at first. Spending time outside of the country that I grew up in seemed utterly insane. However, my brother told me that his biggest regret as an SJSU alumni was never taking the chance to study abroad. Those words changed my life. I approached the booth, and kept the idea of studying abroad in the back of my mind. From Spring 2023-Fall 2024, the application to study abroad in Japan opened and I jumped at the chance to combine my childhood dream with this once in a lifetime opportunity. 

GOALS: What were your goals for studying abroad?

Before studying abroad, I had a clear vision of how I wanted to grow both personally and professionally. I realized I had grown too comfortable in San Jose, and it felt as though it was hindering my personal growth. I knew that it was time for me to expand my horizons. However, I was anxious at the idea of leaving America for longer than 3 weeks. But, I know that if I let my fears drive my consciousness, then I will never be able to accomplish all the amazing goals I have set out for myself. 

I wanted to become more independent while I studied abroad. I enjoyed spending time on my own and handling things myself, but I still felt dependent on the normal, daily routine I was used to. As March approached, I took note of everything I wanted to achieve for me, and no one else:

  1. Be okay with doing things for myself and not for other people. I struggled with being a people pleaser and giving up my own values and morals for the sake of other people’s happiness. It started to take a hit on my mental health prior to my departure, so I wanted to take advantage of being in a new environment to practice self-love. I had plenty of time outside of my university schedule in Japan, so I used it to spend time with myself and navigate through my emotions.
  2. Give roses to my everyday efforts. I am quick to devalue any achievement I have because I see it as something I was supposed to do, and not something I should be proud of myself for. I always thought that the checkpoints of my progress had to seem grand, but it’s through the efforts I make everyday where I am becoming the woman I want to be. Studying abroad in Japan is a childhood dream of mine that I am very proud of myself for accomplishing. 
  3. Be culturally and academically sound. As a hardworking student, my performance in the classroom has never fallen short. But, spending time abroad helped me realize that knowledge extends beyond four walls and a textbook. Being in my 20s, I recognize that this is a formative time of my life – my brain is a sponge, and I am in my prime to absorb as much knowledge and experience as possible. I want to understand and learn about all the different cultures around the world. I don’t want to be a tourist at the places I travel to, but rather a local who prioritizes community and connections.

 PERSONAL GROWTH: What was the biggest impact that your study abroad experience had on you?

My study abroad experience helped me learn who I was always meant to be. Before departing to Japan, I was unsure of what I wanted for myself. My vision for the future was clouded with uncertainty and doubt. I wasn’t confident in who I was, and I desperately sought for a sense of purpose and clarity. I was hoping that my time abroad would guide me towards the direction I was meant to take, and it did just that. I want to explore what the world has to offer, and embrace every opportunity that will shape me into a wiser and compassionate person. 

Meeting people from all over the world who shared a passion for traveling rubbed off me like laughter in a crowded room. This commonality among us was plentiful and warm, and I was inspired by the stories I heard from my friends when they visited other countries. It was refreshing to hear different perspectives of the world outside of the mindset I was comfortable in. As my international friends narrated their journeys from across the world, I grew to understand the beauty of traveling. It is a privilege to feel uncomfortable, to set your eyes on wonders unfamiliar to you, and to educate yourself on a new culture. I realized that the act of traveling was less of the destination, and more of the experience that you curate it to be. 

Now that I returned to the states, I yearn for the cultural exchange that I was surrounded by every day. Studying abroad accelerated the growth that I wanted for myself, and I am deeply grateful to carry these experiences as defining moments in my early twenties. Japan has impacted me in the most surreal ways and has given me the courage to step foot into the unknown. I love the independence I gained from my time abroad, and I hope to nurture this moving forward. 

 ACADEMICS: How would you describe your academic experience abroad?

These are the courses I chose to take for credit at Kwansei Gakuin University in Nishinomiya, Japan:

  • Human Resource Management in the USA, Multicultural Collaboration in English, JSC Global and Local Actions around in the SDGs, Management A, Basic Management, JSC Modern Japan Seminar B1, JSC Pragmatics and Cultures in Japan, JSC Innovation and Intrapreneurship, JSC Environment Issues in Modern Japan

At first, I was worried about taking more classes than I’m used to. I had classes from Monday-Friday, with my latest class ending at 6:40pm and my earliest class starting at 8:50am. The classes were around 1hr 45mins, which is longer than a regular lecture at SJSU. It took some time getting used to the longer class time and navigating through a much larger campus. Nonetheless, I was able to adapt quite quickly and found my routine here. 

My courses met up once a week, so the homework for each class was due the following week or the weekend before. This made it easy for me to finish my work and ensure my academic success. I procrastinated less than I usually do back at SJSU. When an assignment was given, I finished it a few days before the deadline because I was incentivized to give myself free time to travel or explore. My professors were relatively forgiving when it came to make-up work. KGU does not allow more than 5 absences for the Modern Japan Track, so that forced me to keep going to class. My friends and I would occupy the study rooms in our dorm and stay up to finish homework as well. 

The work assigned at KGU for the exchange students was more manageable compared to the assignments in my courses at SJSU. I was given more time to finish my homework abroad, so returning to SJSU is an academic shock for me. I need to re-adjust to how fast-paced the courses are. On the other hand, receiving feedback and the opinions of other international students in group projects has helped me become a more well-rounded team member. I am more receptive and understanding in collaborative settings. 

 CAREER: What skills did you learn / sharpen during your study abroad experience?

As a business major, it is extremely important for me to develop strong networking skills and communicate with people effectively. My extroverted personality made it easier for me to initiate meaningful conversation. However, studying abroad challenged my ability to adapt to different communication styles. I realized that the context of the conversation itself is essential in understanding cultural differences. I had to refine my English and reword the way I said certain things so it was simple enough for someone to comprehend.

Upon returning to my on-campus internship with Associated Students, I had a meeting with my supervisor to discuss the changes around the marketing department. I pitched ideas to improve the organization’s marketing tools and we worked together to reinvent the creative direction for A.S. promotion materials. The group projects I worked on abroad encouraged me to take the initiative and lead with confidence. Collaborating with students from very different cultural backgrounds forced me to be intentional with my work as some acted more passively. I carried this over to fulfill my responsibilities at Associated Students. 

The constant exposure to a new environment challenged me to practice different forms of expressions. I understood that direct statements may project the wrong tone, so I learned how to adjust my dialogue depending on who I was working with in the classroom. From this, I developed a sharper sense to navigate through unfamiliar situations and assess the most appropriate way to respond to my peers with respect and empathy.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: How has your immersion impacted your perspectives on the world?

Immersing myself in Japan has transformed my perspective of the world and my place in it. One of the moments I was very excited to experience abroad was making friends from all over the world. I wanted to engage with people from different backgrounds, but I wasn’t sure how people perceived Americans, especially because I am multiethnic. However, it never posed an issue. It was super fun to meet new people and hear what country everyone was from. I made life-long friends from Australia, New Zealand, Germany, Italy, France, Belgium, Canada, Indonesia, South Korea, and of course, Japan. We shared each other’s values, traditions, national foods, and described how our cultures were similar and different. 

One important realization I had was how culturally ignorant many Americans – including myself – can be without realizing it. I had specific reservations about each country and would ask my friends if it was true, or if it was a stereotype that I was taught to believe in. It was really interesting to hear what was true or not about certain countries. For example, I thought Australians were associated with bugs and kangaroos. My Australian friends told me that they actually do eat kangaroos. One of my friends who live further from the city limits of Sydney has them in her backyard. In return, many people see Americans as self-absorbed and loud. After learning about low context and high context cultures, I explained that Americans are generally more direct in comparison to other countries. It may come off as rude to others who prefer less direct communication. For example, America is an individualist society that embraces diversity while Japan is a collectivist society that emphasizes harmony and peace. 

Studying abroad has been such a privilege in deepening my understanding of different cultures and broadening my global perspectives. I can confidently say that I am growing into a more open-minded version of myself who values education on diversity and the cultures that shape the world that we share. 

FUTURE: How has study abroad prepared you for your future?

 FUTURE: How has studying or interning abroad prepared you for your future?

Studying abroad in Japan gifted me with the newfound ability to find peace in my solitude. As I work to finish my last year at SJSU, I realize how much of my future weighs in every decision I choose to make moving forward. These decisions are up to me and no one else, and that in itself can become lonely and anxiety inducing at times. However, I always remind myself that if I was able to navigate through a foreign country all on my own, then I can absolutely tackle any objective that comes my way. 

In Japan, I was often faced with conflicts alone, whether that be the public transportation system, ordering food at a restaurant, or simply communicating with the cashier at the convenience stores to check out. While it felt frustrating at the moment, these situations strengthened my problem solving skills and tested my resourcefulness. I allowed myself to embrace discomfort and converted the frustration into a lesson that would prepare me for future obstacles. Furthermore, communicating with the locals enabled me to learn different communication styles and how to approach language barriers effectively. This prepares me to collaborate with different kinds of people in both my corporate and creative career. 

I was always surrounded by an excited environment, which forced me to hold myself accountable when juggling my academic and social life. I also learned how to budget while being an unemployed, extreme spender. My time in Japan introduced me to the reality of adulthood and pushed me to develop critical thinking skills that I can apply in leadership roles and project management. 

TIPS: What advice would you give to future Global Spartans?

Don’t vacation like a tourist, live like a local. BE OPEN-MINDED. I believe that it is extremely important to say yes to almost every opportunity that presents itself abroad. As a future Global Spartan, you are about to embark on one of the most amazing experiences in your college career. Not everyone is able to take the opportunity to study abroad outside of their home country, so it is truly a blessing to continue your academics while taking the time to study a culture you are unaware of. There is a version of yourself that you cannot access in the current environment you are in, so water that seed that is outside of the garden you have always tended to. Find the beauty in the mundane, relish in the nights you club all night, and cherish the late night conversations with the friends you will make from all over the world. Studying abroad is a healing experience, and you get what you make out of it. You are made for it all. 

Alex Osorio

MAJOR: English/Creative Writing

PROGRAM: SJSU Exchange – Kyushu University, Japan

EMAIL: alexander.osorio@sjsu.edu

BIO: My decision to study abroad was mainly influenced by my interest in Japanese culture and media, and wanting to learn at a deeper level by completely immersing myself in it. It is also, of course, related to my minor in Japanese

LEADER, VOLUNTEER, OR JOB EXPERIENCES: I was in the Boy Scouts of America for eight years, being elected to serve as Patrol Leader for two years and Instructor for another two—both of which involved coordinating group activities and providing mentorship and education to younger scouts. We worked numerous hours of local community service and on many other related projects. Achieved the rank of Eagle Scout on May 2021.

GOALS: To benefit my pursuit in writing, one of my main reasons for studying abroad was to expand my perspective on the world. I also have a great interest in Japanese history and literature and wanted to take time studying it. Besides this, I hoped that living in a foreign country for nearly one year would greatly impact me on a personal level and change the way I see things in American society and culture, something which turned out to be absolutely true.

Cherry blossom festival at Maizuru Park in Fukuoka

ACADEMICS: I enrolled in a mix of Japanese culture and Japanese language courses, the latter of which I placed the bulk of my focus on due to my minor in Japanese. However, the university I chose did not have a wide variety of humanities courses, so I was unable to continue pursuing units for my major in English while abroad.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: Like I described earlier, I think living in another country has given me new insight into my own home culture. How Japan treats things such as health insurance and public transportation, for example. But also the differences in society, being more focused on the collective rather than our straight individualism. I think there is much to be learned from each other and we can mutually benefit from continued cultural exchange (exchange is, of course, a two-way thing).

CAREER: I think I have greatly enhanced my social and networking skills and can now more efficiently communicate with people from a wide variety of different cultures. It takes a lot to be accommodating of people’s differences on a cultural and individual level and I think that this environment was the perfect way to gain some experience.

PERSONAL GROWTH: I would say that my experience studying abroad has helped me cultivate a much stronger sense of independence and responsibility, and reflect on myself and my own experiences in a way that I think I could not have otherwise. I have made strides in opening myself up to people and pushing myself outside of my comfort zone. Without this I firmly believe that I would not have grown as much as a person.

FUTURE: Studying abroad in Japan has given me firsthand experience with learning a new language, which I believe will be invaluable if I do decide to pursue teaching English in the country. In addition, as a writer this has offered me a great deal of rich and interesting personal experiences from which to pull from.

TIPS: If you do decide to study abroad, don’t be afraid to jump straight in and get involved at the start. It took me a few months to really start getting to know people and get involved with campus activities and I think that closed a lot of doors for me. Everyone will be in a similar situation, so keep in mind that you won’t be the only one feeling a bit overwhelmed and that there will be people to support you and guide you.