Inspired to study abroad by classmates’ experiences and some timely advice

“When I started my first year at Waseda, studying abroad was not something that was on my mind. However, after entering my third year and seeing more and more of the upperclassmen in my seminar class taking on challenges overseas, I gradually became more open to the idea.

Then, when participating in the “Japan-India Student Conference,” a program for international exchange, in my 3rd year, I was offered some life-changing advice: ‘What may seem like a detour now will surely become a valuable asset in the future.’

Inspired by those words, I began to feel that studying abroad while at university could be an invaluable experience for me, and I decided to take the plunge.”

Identifying Portland as the best place to study sustainable urban development

“I’m currently enrolled in Professor Takako Takano’s seminar at the School of Culture, Media and Society, where I study sustainable societies and the environment.

I selected Portland State University as my study abroad destination because the city of Portland is known for making a commitment to environmentally friendly and people-centered sustainable urban development from an early stage.

I felt that this city, and this university, would offer me the greatest opportunity to study my chosen field in greater depth, including hands-on study.”

Portland is a city that is proud of its diversity as well as its uniqueness, as evidenced by this slogan

Overcoming the language barrier to excel in environmental studies

“In addition to English language classes, I took specialized courses in subjects that interested me, such as environmental sustainability and ethics.

Although I initially struggled with the language barrier, and there were times when it was difficult to fully comprehend the class material, I was inspired by the American university culture of openly expressing one’s opinions and gradually became more comfortable speaking up.

Ultimately, I earned an A in each of my classes, which boosted my confidence even further.

I spent many long nights in the university library completing reading and essay assignments until closing time, but now I look back on those nights fondly.

Kichiya (center) with fellow study abroad students

In my courses on sustainable societies and the environment, I got to engage in hands-on learning in and around the Portland area, such as conducting fieldwork, where I investigated water usage and forests, and participating in tree-planting activities as a volunteer.”

Gaining new perspectives from local activities

“I volunteered at the Student Sustainability Center, a unique program offered by PSU, through which I participated in weekly activities to raise environmental awareness. This included removing weeds from around campus and taking part in greening initiatives with local students.

Through these activities, I was able to deepen my understanding of the environment and form connections with local students — invaluable experiences I won’t soon forget.

While at PSU, Kichiya brought her studies and environmental work outside the classroom to the greater Portland area

I also participated in various extracurricular activities, such as volunteering at events hosted by the Consulate General of Japan in Portland and organizing a quiz competition for local high school students studying Japanese.

These activities really drove home for me that the space for learning extends beyond the classroom.”

Turning gratitude for support into a well of motivation

“While the scholarship of course helped me financially, more importantly it motivated me to live up to the expectations of Mr. and Mrs. Etzel, who had made this experience possible.

I was eager to make the most of this opportunity and have a rewarding study abroad experience, and this motivated me even more to acquire specialized knowledge in my field and participate in extracurricular activities.

During my year at PSU, I also had several opportunities to meet with the Etzels in person, and hearing their kind words as I adjusted to life in a new environment was encouraging.

Additionally, learning about their careers in Japan and the United States was very valuable to me as I chart my own career path.”

Kichiya enjoyed meals with Mr. and Mrs. Etzel on a few occasions throughout her year abroad, during which the pair offered many words of support and encouragement

Passing on the spirit of support to the next generation

“In the future, I hope to pursue a career that contributes to creating a sustainable society and environment in Japan.

And, thanks to the Oregon Study Abroad Scholarship I received from Mr. Etzel, I realized that I also want to become someone who can support others in their time of need.

Receiving this support has given me a new perspective on my life goals, and that is very meaningful to me.”