Elly-Kate McEWAN

Monash University, Australia
Exchange to Nagoya University, Japan

I have studied Japanese and have been interested in Japanese culture since I was 12 years old, so to have the opportunity to travel and study abroad in Japan in 2011 was like a dream come true for me. I was looking forward to the academic opportunities, such as improving my Japanese skills and knowledge of Japan as well as the social and travel opportunities that are offered to you as an exchange student. Thanks to the scholarship that I received from the Cheung Kong Group and the Australian Government, I was able to fulfil my dreams of an exciting, adventurous and fulfilling exchange to Japan.

When I first arrived in Japan I took the chance to travel around Kyoto for 12 days, exploring the cultural sites and meeting other travellers from around the world who were also interested in Japan, this really opened up my eyes to what a wonderful experience I was about to have, meeting new people and enjoying the beautiful sites, food, cultural and educational enrichment Japan could offer me.

My experience at Nagoya University was very different to what I had experienced back in Australia, attendance was very important and the Japanese classes were intense with 3 hours of class 5 days a week. But in the end it was all worth it, I felt my Japanese improving everyday and even found myself sneaking Japanese words into conversation with my English-speaking friends!

Socially, Nagoya University were very proactive in making sure that we didn't feel left behind or lost in our exchange experience, as many welcome parties were held and activities were organised in order to help the Japanese students interact with the international students and give us the chance to learn about each other’s cultures. I really benefited from this and made lots of Japanese friends and friends from all over the world.

My experience in Japan really opened up my eyes to the world and what I can gain from life, as well as what I am capable of as a young woman in today’s world! Anyone thinking of going on exchange don’t hesitate, just do it! It is a great experience that you can learn from and you definitely won’t regret.

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