Joseph Martin

Host Program: Summer APU Gateway Program

Home School: Washinton State University

Why did you decide to study abroad in Japan?

My advisor at my home university's Honors College told me that an immersion program can prove very helpful in improving my foreign language skills, so she sent me to our university's Education Abroad Office to explore my options. From then on, I jumped on the opportunity and the rest became a part of my adventure. As it turned out, my advisor was right! My proficiency in Japanese greatly improved after the trip! Not only did I fulfill the Honors College's foreign language requirement, I also fulfilled requirements for its curriculum and my Japanese minor. Just as I intended, I hit two birds (well, more than
two) with one stone.
My study abroad was well worth the time and money, and I can definitely say that this was the best summer I've ever had!

What did you like best about living in Beppu?

First of all, I liked the location, as it was perfect for me! The climate was appealing and unlike Tokyo, Beppu had a less busy, mellow atmosphere. It maintained a small-town feel while providing access to resources downtown, like malls, restaurants, and shops. Interestingly, though Beppu was relatively small, it was still very lively and there was so much to do, so I took advantage of that. I went shopping several times, sang at karaoke bars, bathed in hot springs (which I terribly miss), swam at the beach, climbed a mountain, extensively explored the town and its sorrounding areas, and of course, took a lot of pictures (which probably amount to about 10,000). All in all, the Japanese people were very warm and inviting! Surprisingly, even strangers were friendly and trustworthy!

I also liked the university that I was in. It sat on top of a mountain, overlooking downtown Beppu. It is unique in a way that it encompasses all of the culture of its students. Every year, there are cultural weeks, in which a certain culture of the student body would be highlighted. There would be shows, booths, and contests all throughout the week, featuring dances, songs, art, clothing, and many other facets of that culture. Then, at the end of the week, there is a grand finale performance, in which all students, staff, and community members are invited. It's amazing to me how a large majority of the student population gets involved willingly and enthusiastically, in no way that I've ever seen at my home university before. Even the cafeteria accentuates the cuisine belonging to that culture for the whole week, and people have the chance to try exotic dishes. All the hard work and effort that goes into every cultural week is very impressive and commendable! One of my favorites was Thai Week, which portrayed a very rich, colorful culture. I tried on their national costume, which was great, and was awestruck at the talent presented at their grand finale!

You become really involved on campus; can you please tell me about your experience in the singing club and with the volleyball team?

When I wasn't a tourist downtown or a student on campus, I was a member of the singing "circle" called Gospel Soul. Most of our gatherings were to practice for the group's annual summer dinner show, but other times, we just sang for fun. We sang a mix of songs, from contemporary to all-time favorites, from gospel to pop, and I also played my ukulele with them. As for the volleyball team, I didn't start participating until my last week. One of my friends in the program have been pushing me to go, because he knew I liked volleyball, but often times, my commitment with Gospel Soul interfered with their practices. Although I didn't spend as much time as I wanted with the team, I'm glad I still had the opportunity to do so anyway.

How do you feel these experiences enhanced your study abroad?

I'm happy that I got involved in campus, because I was able to connect with other students more effectively. It made the transition smoother and my experience, much more fulfilling than it already was! I not only did something I really enjoyed, but I also did it with amazing people! I made so many friends and memories to last a lifetime. In Japanese, “ritsumeikan,” which is part of the name of the university I studied in, means “a place to establish one’s destiny.” Experiencing another culture and knowing about their history (both of which I loved so much) brought that meaning to life. I realized that my destiny is to be with people from all walks of life—to touch their hearts and let them touch mine. It brings a smile to my face – and some tears— when I think about how much this experience has changed me in many different ways. I even learned lessons from the most unconventional places, like a mountain full of monkeys, hot spring baths, and the school cafeteria.
There was definitely so much to learn everywhere I went, may it be inside or outside the classroom! For me, the whole experience was as much an personal, emotional journey as it was a cultural one.

Any words of advice for future study abroad students?

I believe that your study abroad will be one of the best experiences you'll ever have! There is not even a day I don't think about mine. You may often times find yourself wanting to go home and feeling lonely, which is understandable, but I hope you realize, home can wait. This opportunity will only be here at this moment, so take advantage of it!
The trip might seem long in the beginning, but as time passes by, you could develop a progressively deeper connection with the place--its people and culture-- much like I did. So, do as much as you can with the time that you have! To be honest, there were a few activities I now regret not doing. All the while, I kept thinking, "Oh, I still have some time left before I leave. I can do them later!" or I would say, "I'm too busy right now." Yes, your academics should be among your main priorities during your study abroad, but the experience is also a time to come out of your comfort zone and try new things. You never know when you may return to that country or be able to do this again.