The first days that I arrive in Japan, I was feeling anxious and scared. I did not know anyone and I was scared to explore Sannomiya. Once, the semester started, I made many new friends and felt like I was home. I am grateful for the exchange as it was the best time of my life, I met many good people and had a lot of fun. I wish that people would do more exchanges as it really is an incredible adventure.

Ali El MOUSIF
Graduate School of International Cooperation Studies @ Kobe
from University of Ottawa
Fall 2019

When you think about Japan, there are many things that come to mind. Anime, sushi, Samurai, Tokyo; But after falling in love with Japanese culture from afar, and studying in Kobe for a year, the first thing that comes up for me is "Mountains." Yes, that may sound dull at first, but to me it personifies what is great about Japan. Beauty in simplicity, peace and tranquil, but simultaneously having many steep climbs, and a call to explore and learn more about what there is to see. Many people come into Japan with preconcieved notions or ideas about "what Japan really is." I had a lot of ideas too, but the more time passed by, the less time I spent thinking about "what Japan is" and more time I spent just enjoying it. Learning about Japanese culture by interacting with Japanese people, traveling, and during classes at Kobe Uni. Having an open mind, and a "When in Rome, do as the Romans" mentality, can help you to truly immerse yourself in all the amazing things Japan has to offer. So, if you want to go to Japan so you can go back home and tell everyone you know "The real Japan", then I think that you will not find it. But if you want to challenge yourself in a new environment, and let yourself enjoy yourself, then you will find endless smiling faces welcoming you to Kobe. Kobe might not have the brightest lights or the busiest streets, but it certaintly has a most beautiful soul. And by the way, learn as much Japanese as you can beforehand! "Nihon de ganbatte Otanoshimi kudasai!

Jonathan LEIBOWITZ
Faculty of Economics @ Kobe
from City University of New York Queens College
Fall 2019