Academic Life in Japan

Because I study in FEIT (Faculty of Engineering & IT), there are not too many options to take direct equivalents overseas, so I am using my free electives to take some subjects for fun! I think exchange is the best place to use up your free electives, you definitely won’t regret it! At Kansai Gaidai University (KGU) in Japan, I am using the equivalent of x3 free electives (18cp) to study 4 subjects at my host university in topics of interest. My subjects are the following:

• Japanese (Level 2)
• Kanji & Readings (Level 2)
• 20th Century Asian History Through Film
• Shinto

The campus life here in Japan is quite different from UTS. Timetables run in a period-style format similar to high school, unlike at UTS where subject times can vary. This means that all classes here run for the same length (1.5 hours), whereas classes at UTS can be of different lengths. Also in Japan, all classes are in person (no online lectures!) and attendance counts towards your final grade for the subject. I think this scheduling helps you be organized and keep a good routine, but it’s definitely less flexible than UTS and more time-consuming.

Connections & Cultural Experiences

One of the most rewarding parts of my exchange has been the friendships and networks I have built. Kansai Gaidai University and the YUI Global Commons dorms provide such an easy environment to make international friends. The Asian Studies Program is tailored for international students, making it a natural hub for meeting people from all over the world. Additionally, local Japanese students at Kansai Gaidai are very open to making friends with international students, as many of them attend the university to gain global exposure and international experience. These factors have created a truly enriching and diverse social experience.

Although I did not participate in any specific programs, the open and welcoming environment at KGU made it easy to form deep connections. Whether through casual conversations in the dorms, shared classes, or group outings, I have built friendships that I hope will last beyond this exchange.

Exchange Reflection

Studying abroad in Japan has been a life-changing experience that has pushed me outside of my comfort zone and helped me grow both personally and academically. Living in a different country has taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of open-mindedness. I have become more independent, learned to navigate challenges in a new environment, and developed strong cross-cultural communication skills.

One of the biggest takeaways from this experience is the value of international friendships. The connections I have made here will last a lifetime, and I am incredibly grateful for the people I have met. Exchange is not just about studying; it’s about immersing yourself in a new way of life, challenging yourself, and making unforgettable memories. Japan has given me a fresh perspective on both my personal and professional goals, and I hope to take what I have learned here into future global opportunities.

Life in Japan – TIPS!

I feel like I have just arrived in Japan, but I have already been here for more than half of my exchange semester! Time flies quickly, and in a country like Japan where there are so many different places to explore and travel, I regret not getting in more trips in my first 1-2 months here. Yes, it’s important to settle in and have rest, but if you are capable, make the most of any free time you can!

Don’t forget about nature! Yes, it is fun to go out with friends to hang out, but Japan has some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the world! I am getting really into hiking here and also exploring/traveling to unpopular destinations with stunning scenery. I will remember that the most!

In Japan, where everything is cheaper and there are so many cool things or snacks you want to buy, make sure to budget consistently! All those small convenience store snacks or trinkets you buy add up quickly, and it’s best to keep track of it daily to stay organized.

Check for student discounts! Especially if you are going to travel, you can ask your host university to issue you a coupon for shinkansen (bullet train) tickets, which gives you 20% off!

Overall, this experience has been one of the most enriching chapters of my life, and I would encourage anyone considering exchange to take the leap—you won’t regret it!

Ysabella Miguel
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Diploma in Professional Engineering Practice
Kansai Gadai University, Japan
New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant Recipient

For more information about the UTS Global Exchange program please visit: www.uts.edu.au/thinkglobal