I studied Russian language and International Studies at Kazan Federal University, in Russia for 10 months from September 2014 to June 2015. I majored in literature for foreigners. Also I studied about culture and media in Russia. It is said that Russian language is one of the most difficult languages for Japanese. The letters and pronunciations are quite different from Japanese. When I arrived at Kazan, I couldn’t speak or understand anything in Russian. However, with the help of wonderful teachers and friends, I studied hard in classes as well as at home. I can understand and speak Russian now. I lived at a dormitory with European girls. Even though sometimes we had difficulties because of the cultural difference, we were able to share unforgettable moments together, whether good or bad, and now I feel as if we were a real family.

There were a few Japanese in Kazan, so I always tried to be a representative of Japanese. I’ve been practicing Aikido since I was little, so I traveled around Russia and practiced Aikido with Russians so many times. I met many Russians who love Japanese culture. I realized the essence in this global world is to be proud of our own country and, at the same time, to understand and respect their country. With this spirit, we can build friendly relationships all over the world.

This world is bigger than we imagine, and the nature, the culture and the people make our values more diverse. And these values will immensely enrich our minds. Fortunately, Kanazawa University has extremely fulfilling programs and systems for studying abroad, so if you want to challenge it, please do not hesitate!

At Halloween Party

 

(Updated: October 16, 2015)