When I study at the University of Hyogo, I would like to improve my
Japanese and learn more about Japanese culture. I would like to be able
to make jokes in Japanese and make people laugh. I would like to study
Japanese culture by making friends, working a part-time job and
traveling around the country. Most importantly I would like to make
lasting friendships and be a good representative of the US. When I
return to America, after studying abroad, I would like to find a job
where I can use Japanese. But in order to become fluent, instead of
returning to America, I would like to try working in Japan.

Living in Japan and studying at the University of Hyogo has greatly helped me improve my Japanese level. This last year I have learned more than I anticipated. The classes were a bit too difficult, but I still learned a lot. My reading and listening ability has progressed more than I expected. I am also now able to speak with Japanese people with confidence. Because of this I think I was able to have a deeper understanding of Japanese language and culture. I’m looking forward to seeing my progress in the future.

Before I thought I would never be able to give a presentation in Japanese, but I have and can now. Japanese comedy differs greatly from that of American, but I was still able to make a few jokes in Japanese. However, I still have a long way to go before I can become more consistent. I am more motivated than ever to continue studying and achieve my goal of becoming fluent in Japanese. As always, I’m looking forward to seeing my progress in the future.