For as long as I can remember, I have always had an immense fascination with Japan and its culture, from the diversity of its food, the mannerisms of its people, to the strange yet astonishing combination of an ancient world full of temples, tea ceremonies and cherry blossom viewing parties all combined with new futuristic ideas and technologies. It is all so beautiful it honestly makes you want to cry.
I always believed in the stereotype that Japanese people were shy and somewhat awkward in their mannerism. Once I got to Japan I discovered it was not shyness/awkwardness, but instead part of their culture, they are taught from an early age to not inconvenience anyone for any reason, to avoid asking any questions that might make others feel uncomfortable.
My most memorable experience was going to Hiroshima; I did not expect it to be so beautiful. I expected Hiroshima to be a grey, gloomy city that held a grudge against the US; boy was I wrong! Hiroshima is bright, colorful, and people are very friendly. While being there I met Okihiro Terao, an Atomic bomb survivor that stands outside the Hiroshima Atom Bomb and tells his story of survival and growth, he also displays models he built of the dome before and after the attacks. He did not hold any grudges, even when I said I was American, he was more than happy to share pictures, newspaper articles and tell me his story; there is only peace on his mind.
I highly recommend everyone studies abroad, you will not regret it! These few months in japan have taught me so much, I have seen so much and have met the most incredible people not only from Japan but from all over the world. This has been the experience of a lifetime and its something that will stay with me and in my heart for the rest of my life. I must thank the center for Global Engagement for making my experience possible and the transition to japan smooth.
Sofia Cadavid Arango
