I want to study for college in Japan, but how?

Question

I'm a Filipino student who will soon be graduating from high school. I really want to study in Japan but I am just clueless as how to be able to do so. I'm also trying to search for a scholarship.

Answer 1

You should start by making an appointment with a Guidance Counselor from your High School. You and your counselor can then begin to research "Study Abroad" programs. They could help you find a path in higher education (whether a community college, university, college, etc.) which could assist you through this process, depending on what it is you want to do (career wise). Perhaps the Peace Corps is an option as well.

What is it that interests you about Japan? By brainstorming that question before your meeting, you will most likely know which path to take and how to begin your journey. Your reasons will help narrow down your choices and options. If you really want to study in Japan, you should prepare yourself, keeping in mind that you should become familiar with Japanese culture and their language. I have found Rosetta Stone's programs to be my preferred method of learning languages. I retain the information better and find it easier to use than some of the other programs out there. Here is a link you should check out: http://www.rosettastone.com/personal/lan...

My brother has been to Japan a few times now and I think he is planning to move there within the next year. Japan is pretty awesome. If it is your dream- Go for it! :)

Answer 2

you need to start preparing for your educational adventure. Here are a few tips to assist you before you go.

Decide what courses to take

When selecting the courses you plan on taking, be sure to take full advantage of what studying in another country has to offer. If you're studying in Paris, what better place to take French—if you're studying in London, take British History. In other words, wait until you're back home for that Intro to U.S. Government class!

Choose your accommodations

Depending on what program you're attending, where you'll be living may already have been decided for you. Other programs—particularly language study programs—may offer you the option of either staying in student housing or with a host family. If you really want to immerse yourself in another country's culture, staying with a host family is a great way to go. Not only do you have more opportunities to use the new language skills you are learning but you also get to experience the lifestyle, customs and typical daily life of the country you are studying in.

Check your travel documents

If you have a passport, make sure it's valid for at least six months after your return date. If not, apply for a renewal. And if you don't have a passport yet, apply for one far in advance of your departure date. Also be sure to check with your program to determine if a student visa is necessary for the country you'll be studying in.

Attend to money matters

Most cities abroad have ATM machines that allow you to withdraw money from your checking account back home so there is no need—nor is it advisable—to carry large amounts of cash with you. However, double check with your bank to make sure you can use your card at foreign ATMs. If you have a credit card, bring it as well. It's also a good idea to take a small amount of cash and travelers checks with you. Most North American banks can order foreign currency, so if you'd prefer to land in your destination with a few Euros already in your pocket, you can do that too!

Keep in touch

The easiest, cheapest and quickest way to stay in touch with family and friends while you are studying abroad is email. If you don't already have one, sign up for a free Web-based email account you can access from anywhere. Cyber cafes can be found in even the smallest towns around the globe these days. Before you leave, send a farewell email to your family and friends letting them know the email address they can write to you at while you're gone.

It's also a good idea to purchase calling cards before going abroad. Make sure you find out the country code and access numbers you'll need before you leave. And if you promised postcards to anyone, remember to compile a list of mailing addresses to take with you.

Pack light

Be practical. Forget the "cute little shoes" that only go with one outfit. The idea here should be mix and match—pants that match multiple tops, shoes that match multiple pants—you get the idea. Less is more should definitely be the mantra here.

Do your research

In the weeks and months leading up to your departure, try and learn as much as you can about the country and city you'll be studying in. There's an abundance of information that can be found on the Internet. The more you know, the easier it will be for you to adjust to your environment and take advantage of the opportunity ahead of you. The bottom line is your study abroad experience will be whatever you make of it - so make it great!