My full name is Nguyen Man Thuy Tien, but normally my friends call me Tien. I’m now studying International Relations in Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University. I’ve been to Japan since last year’s September which means I’ve lived here in Beppu for almost 1 year.
The reason why I chose to study in Japan is because of the impression this place left in me. When I was in grade 7th, I had chance to be in an exchange programme and went to Tokyo, Mie for 11 days. Besides, Japan’s culture diversity is also one of my reasons because I really want to know more about it, to live with it and give myself more opportunities to experience life in another country.
I have classes from Monday to Friday. In these day, beside studying Japanese, I also have major classes and some more extra activities. After that, I usually go home to do homeworks and have dinner with friends. On weekend, I may go on a short trip with my friends or just give myself a day off and cook some Vietnamese food. What I love the most about Japan is that it’s so convenient to travel around Japan. The transport system here is very modern and the information is so detailed that can easily take you to anywhere you l like.
Before coming to Japan, I’ve prepared quite good for the long journey ahead but when I came, things turnt to another direction. Some were good but some were worse than I’ve thought. I imagined the life here would be so busy that people have no time to communicate with others but turns out it is so different from my imagination. People here in Beppu and in APU are so nice and friendly, thanks to my new Japanese and international friends, now I can enjoy my university life to the fullest.
Of course living away from home has never been easy. I think all of the international students here all have the same problem is homesick. It was my first time to live away from my parents, to do everything on my own so it was a bit messy at first. Besides, my Japanese is not so good so I think that’s what I concern the most until now. Along with that, the living expense is also a problem for those who study abroad but in Beppu is not too high compare to other city in Japan so it’s affordable.
There are so many good things here in Japan but the most impressive thing I love about this place is the way people treat each other. I’ve met so many people here and the common thing I found in them is politeness.
It is so hard for to give message but I really want to share with you – the future students who want to study abroad that Japan is a wonderful country and it will be so worth to study and live in Japan. Just come and experience this fascinating culture by yourself. I bet that you will not regret.