So I thought I'd start this blog with a Welcome Party hosted by the International Residence staff. The party began at 11 in the morning and lasted quite some time. During which, we all talked among one another, with our fellow Japanese students, and ate together. This year at Kumamotot Gakuen University (KGU), there are students from all over the world. While I am the only student from UIW, I was not the only student from America. There are several boys from Montana State University, along with several students from England, Canada, Australia, Korea, China, Vietnam, Taiwan, and Thailand. Although, since the school system runs a bit diferent in some parts in Asia, the students from Vietnam, Korea, and China have been here for a semester before us. Nonetheless, they welcomed all of us with opened arms. And while there is a slight language barrier since they've had more experience in the langugae than us, we manage to find other ways to communicate, even if it includes random hand gestures until we figure out what the other is saying!
All the International Students here have been extremely nice. There isn't a single bad vibe from anyone here, and we all get along so great. We've even laughed a bit because we realize how much of a family everyone is. We've even gone so far as to name a mother and father of the group! The two students from Canada, one boy and one girl, are seen as the parental figures out of all of us. Not only are they the oldest, but they are also the kindest. And will be willing to help out anyone with anything.
Before coming to Japan, I would never have thought as Japanese as an International language, but I always find myself fascinated how the other students use Japanese to all speak with one another in casual settings. While most people might think English is the common International language, that is not the case here at KGU. Yes, there are Japanese students who are English majors or work in the English lounge that do want to use English and improve their skills, however there are many more students who struggle in speaking English to foreigners. Because of this, I do my best to speak Japanese to the other students here who do have problems in English, even to the other International Students who are from other parts of Asia. If I do run into problems, there are translating apps I can use to help me say things I can't find the words for. Or if you can say one key word about what it is you need or want to do, they understand most of the time. So in short, while the language barrier can be somewhat of a problem, there are ways around it.
I am extremely thankful for my time here in Japan, and I can't wait to see more of the city!
またね！
That's pretty hilarious to have a "father" and "mother" designated for your international family! Wonder if that will last?!
Posted by: Jean Loden | 09/30/2013 at 11:16 AM