(MORE) Postcards from the Class of 2014: Europe Edition
The International decided to check up on the a few of the graduates from the class of 2014 (again).
Here’s what they have to say about college life.
Kiko Chin
Where are you?
University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Why did you choose this location?
I wanted to study in the United Kingdom. I chose Scotland over England because it gave me the flexibility of taking outside courses that were not necessary related to my major. Also, it’s a four-year program rather than the English three-year program, which gives me more time to figure out what I want to do.
What’s your favorite thing about your school so far?
It gives me the freedom to explore my courses, but not radically. Societies in my school are very much diverse and I can almost find any society I want. I’m currently taking part in the Economics and Business society.
Have you experienced any cultural shock?
Yes, very much. I grew up in Tokyo where stores are open past 10. Here, stores and restaurants close very early and on Sundays they are either closed or open only until 5.
What has been the hardest thing to adapt to?
To be honest the hardest thing to adapt to was not being able to make friends. I was unable to make friends for more than two months, and I’m still in the stage of trying to make friends. I think I was so used to the community at ISSH that making new friends is something that I haven’t done in ages.
What’s something you would tell ISSH girls who are thinking about this city/school?
Edinburgh is a beautiful city, and the University is right at the center of the city. It has a great reputation worldwide. Although the weather can be dark and cold sometimes, if you like being surrounded by world heritage sites, Edinburgh is the place!
When are you coming back to Tokyo?
I’m coming back this winter, and also in the summer.
Mafer Ribas
Where are you?
Bluche, Valais, Switzerland
Why did you choose this location?
Because of the school.
What’s your favorite thing about your school so far?
So far, the thing that I love most about my school is the hospitality of the students.There are no differences between older and younger students. If you need anything at anytime people will always be kind and help you.
Have you experienced any cultural shock?
In the village my school is located at there are tons of children, teenagers, and elders, but hardly any adults, which was sort of weird at first.
What has been the hardest thing to adapt to?
The hardest thing for me so far is the weather. Since we are up in the Swiss mountains it’s always a pain to walk to classes in the morning.
What’s something you would tell ISSH girls who are thinking about this city/school?
Les Roches is a great part of me now and I don’t know what I would’ve done if I hadn’t come here, but it’s tough. If you’re thinking about Les Roches, be ready to work hard. Depending on the day, you have to be in class before 6am and work until 11pm. Overall, it’s a great experience, and if you choose hospitality for your career there is no better place than Les Roches.
When are you coming back to Tokyo?
I’m coming back on the 15th of December.
Hanin Siam
Where are you?
I’m at Franklin University in Switzerland.
Why did you choose this location?
I chose Franklin University because it is accredited by both the U.S. and Switzerland. Also because it’s in Europe and I get to travel around whenever I want to. I had never been to Europe so I’m now exploring new places and learning about new cultures.
What’s your favorite thing about your school so far?
My favorite thing is probably the Academic Travel opportunity they provide us with. Every semester you register for a travel class where you learn about a certain topic of a country or region and then for two weeks you get to go there and spend time exploring and uniting with your classmates. This semester I went to Venice in Italy and next semester I plan on going to London.
Have you experienced any cultural shock?
Yes, in Switzerland everything closes super early which is definitely something I’m not used to. Normal shops close by 6-7 pm and the gas station with the supermarket closes at around 10. After that, there is nothing open. I’m used to 24/7 convenient stores in Japan so this was kind of a disappointment and a shock.
What has been the hardest thing to adapt to?
The hardest thing to adapt to was probably balancing the freedom I suddenly got. In university no one tells you to do your homework or not to go out or to sleep, so you have to learn how to balance work, sleep, school work, and friends. It was tough at first, but now I think I’ve balanced it all out.
What’s something you would tell ISSH girls who are thinking about this city/school?
My city is such a peaceful and quiet place where you really learn how to appreciate the beauty of life. When I walk to class, my view is the mountains and the beautiful sunset and it really is breathtaking. Although it’s quiet and peaceful, downtown is loud on weekends when people go partying. Oh, and the drinking age is 18 here, so you can go to pubs and clubs and not just frat parties.
When are you coming back to Tokyo?
I get back to Tokyo on December 15th. I’m so excited. I can’t wait to eat Japanese food and see all my friends and of course my family.
Miki Saito
