I had wanted to study abroad since I was a junior high school student. When I was choosing a college, I wanted to enter the one which allowed me to stay abroad as long as I could. As a result, I chose Seiryo College. I started to live away from my family after I entered Seiryo College because it was too far from my hometown to Niigata. I was used to living alone, but living abroad was totally diffrent. Before I went to America, I was worried at first about staying abroad. At the same time, I was looking forward to studying abroad.

When I arrived in America, I was overcome with my worries because I couldn't say what I wanted to say. I really felt frustrated every day. When I was disappointed by myself, my host family understood me. They tried to listen to my clumsy English. I was glad about that. That was a big help for me. After that, I wanted to learn about my family and friends. I tried to express English more simply.

At first, I couldn't speak English because I felt shy. I was convinced that I could't speak. I was afraid of making mistakes, but I learned the most important thing was hungry spirit. Another important thing was to enjoy using English. Of course, I can't speak English completely because I am not native speaker of English. I am proud to be a Japanese. I hope people living in Japan are more proud of Japan, too.

My friends were mostly Asian. They were always kind to me. I was so glad about that. If someone was having trouble, I want to be kind to them. I learned not only English but also foreign culture. I felt we have a small world. Then, I appreciate again all the people who supported me such as my family and friends. This study abroad program was only for a very short period in my life, but the experience made me grow up a lot. It was a precious time for me. I want to make use of this experience for my life in the future.

Class

Halloween Party

Face Mask with Yuni

Classmates

My Friend

Malachi

Sue and Yuni

Pike Place Market

Airport