Global Exchange in Osaka University, Japan

After months of preparation and paperwork, all that remained was to pack my bags and board the plane. Eleven hours in the air — along with the inevitable jet lag — left me feeling nervous, especially when faced with the maze-like Osaka train system. However, stepping onto a Hello Kitty-themed train from Kansai International Airport to Osaka-Umeda instantly eased my worries, setting the tone for an exciting month ahead.

My name is Malena and while writing this blog post, it has been one month since I left Sydney to begin my Global Exchange adventure in Osaka, Japan. And already, so many core memories have been made. Before this journey, my only glimpse into Japanese life was through social media. Through the UTS Global Exchange program and the support of the New Colombo Plan Grant, I am now living out a dream since high school in a country I have always wanted to visit.

The language barrier initially seemed daunting, but with the help of my phone’s translation apps and the Japanese I had learned in class, moving into my dormitory went smoothly. I arrived just before cherry blossom season, and the breathtaking scenery was even more beautiful than I imagined. Standing under trees dusted with soft pink blossoms made me realise that the next five months would be filled with unforgettable moments.

Settling into dormitory life and starting my semester at Osaka University made the city feel like a second home. Meeting students from around the world has been one of the most rewarding parts of this journey — sharing cultures, meals, and stories has given me a deeper appreciation for the diversity beyond borders.

Living in Osaka has taught me many lessons, both big and small. I have learned the value of patience and observation, especially when navigating unfamiliar systems. The public transport network, which once looked overwhelming, soon became second nature, thanks to my experience in Sydney. Walking became a daily habit, and I quickly realised the importance of having comfortable shoes — my step count here in just one month has easily outpaced several months back home! Beyond the practical, I have learned that immersing yourself fully in a new culture teaches resilience, humility, and adaptability.

I cannot recommend Exchange enough for anyone considering it. Being in a new environment reveals how many small cultural differences contribute to the richness of everyday life. This experience has broadened my perspective in ways I never imagined, and I am excited to see how these lessons continue to shape my future.

Malena Lemoto
Bachelor of Communication (Digital and Social Media) Bachelor of International Studies
Osaka University, Japan
New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant

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