Voices from abroad

Natasha Little is currently studying abroad at Waseda University. Here's a little something about her experience.

Since September, I've been studying in the heart of Tokyo at Waseda University. It took time to get adjusted to the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, with the huge crowds in places like Shibuya and Shinjuku, as well as the immense and complicated metro system. Being unable to read most of what is around me makes it difficult as well! That said, I am thoroughly enjoying my experience in Tokyo. While much of the city fits the crowded, busy image that first pops into your mind, plenty of areas - such as where you will likely be living - are quiet and relatively tranquil. The Waseda area lacks the towering skyscrapers and with plenty of little hole-in-the-wall restaurants and traditional-style houses squished in amongst large cement apartment complexes, as well as plenty of gorgeous temples and gardens. These are particularly beautiful now, with the sakura blossoms blooming.

I live in a dorm on campus, so I don't have the hour or more commute that most homestay students have. It's also in a great area - quiet, but a few minutes by metro to some of the popular parts of Tokyo, and the road from campus to the nearest major station is known for its restaurants and bars. I find it more difficult to practice Japanese than I thought it would be, as I am surrounded by students who, though of different backgrounds, are still usually more comfortable with English than Japanese. It is far too easy to get away with speaking very little Japanese. The full year abroad helps with my language skills; it gives you time to get over the culture shock, get used to the area, and then to hopefully buckle down and practice speaking - a semester is sometimes too short for this.

I would recommend visiting the onsen - the hot springs are amazing in the winter. Go on a day trip with friends to Urayasu or Odaiba if you're in Tokyo, take a break from classes and relax!