Serana

Biological Sciences BSc (Hons)

Kanagawa University

How it Started

This summer, I completed my third summer school programme, this time studying Japanese at Kanagawa University. My previous programmes showed me how much I could gain from short periods abroad, both academically and personally. I had long been interested in Japan, so when the opportunity came up, I applied.

Learning Japanese

I arrived as a complete beginner. The programme focused entirely on Japanese language and the intensive classes meant I progressed quickly. By the end, I could handle everyday situations, read basic signs and menus and hold simple conversations. Learning a language so different from English was the most challenging part of the experience but also the most rewarding. Studying a subject outside my degree also pushed me out of my comfort zone and made me a more adaptable learner.

Life in Japan

Living in Yokohama gave me the chance to experience Japanese culture first hand. Adapting to a new language and way of life in a short time was not always easy but it made me more independent and resilient.
One of the best outcomes of the programme was the friendships I made with students from around the world. These connections have lasted beyond the summer, and I have already visited some of my friends in their home countries.

Advice for Others

If you are considering studying abroad but are unsure about committing to a full year, I would strongly recommend a summer school. It is a shorter commitment, but it still offers real academic, personal and cultural benefits. You can even study something completely new as I did with Japanese. After three programmes, I can say each one has made me more confident and given me experiences and friendships I will always value.

Thank you to the Surrey Abroad team and Kanagawa University for making this summer possible.