I'm thinking about being an exchange student??

Question

Well I really want to go to Japan for a year to study and my parents say they will do it if they can, so I have about a 90% chance of going and I will already have my associates and I can work on my bachelors there, so I am seriously considering it. Very seriously. So has anybody done this before? And in Japan? any tips or advice?

I am also worried because I am 6' 1" girl with blue eyes and brownish red hair. I will stick out like a sore thumb.

Answer 1

never done it though, i had a friend who did this through brazil.  When you are in a different country, everything is different.  You also have to be careful.  Getting a good staying family is key.  If you have a family that doesn't care or really doesn't like you your time in Japan will stink!

GOOD LUCK!

Answer 2

you should go, it's a very good opportunity. a tip i can give you is to study the city and learn a little japanese. you don't have to know the whole language but just enough to get you around the cities. =)

Answer 3

Don't worry about being different, that's an important factor of being an exchange student. People will look pass your appearances anyway.

Answer 4

There are several blogs about teaching English in Japan available online that can give you interesting information. It's true that you will stick out like a sore thumb...if you feel comfortable being the center of attention this shouldn't be a problem.

Answer 5

Don't worry about looking different :-) Isn't that just part of the fun???

Just wanted to advise you that a lot of scholarships are available for Japan so contact the  Japanese consulate in Washington 213-617-6700 to find out some more information before you go. I think the deadline is soon so call them tomorrow. Good luck!!!

Answer 6

make sure you research their social customs as much as possible so you're aware of things that might offend them. i don't have any idea of the ones in japan, but i've looked up some latin american customs and they are soooo much different than ours, it would be easy to make someone uncomfortable without realizing it.