Please enter search keywords
6min read
As the new semester begins, many students from across Japan and around the world have gathered at APU. Talking with fellow APU students, I realize just how many are eager to take on new challenges. Among these, a large number are considering studying abroad. At the same time, many feel anxious about going to places like Europe or Asia—regions where English is not the primary language.
Today, we’ll share the experience of Toshio Inoue, a fourth-year student in the College of International Management, who studied abroad in Indonesia. His story will encourage those thinking about taking on the challenge of studying in a non-English-speaking country.
Before leaving for Indonesia, Inoue had never taken an Indonesian language class and was at the beginner level. To prepare, he practiced speaking with Indonesians online, aiming to improve his language skills and deepen his understanding of local culture. This proactive effort made his life abroad smoother and helped him develop a positive attitude.
While in Indonesia, he attended a language school and lived in a dormitory. What impressed him most was how bright and friendly people were. In particular, the dormitory caretaker spoke to him every day, which helped him overcome language barriers and build genuine connections.
However, communication wasn’t always easy because many locals didn’t speak English. With one in three people unable to understand English, he spent his days figuring out how to get the message across. Still, Inoue maintained the mindset of “don’t get discouraged when you’re not understood; just keep talking until you are.” This experience strengthened not only his language skills but also his perseverance and willingness to understand others.
After returning to Japan, he found that his psychological barrier to speaking with foreigners had been significantly lowered. Situations that once made him hesitate now feel natural, and he can start conversations with ease. This will surely be a great asset to him as he pursues his dream of working in public administration.
multilingual environment can offer. From my own experience, I believe that developing the ability to communicate and the resilience to endure being misunderstood is invaluable. For those who want to cultivate these qualities, I highly recommend studying in regions where English is not the dominant language.
So, take that first step! The world is full of wonders that cannot be expressed in English alone.
Bonjour! I'm Sora, a fourth-year student majoring in APM at APU. Since fall 2023, I've been studying abroad in France for a year. By sharing my experiences as an APU student and my study abroad experiences, I aim to convey the allure of international exchange to everyone.
Copyright (c) 2016 Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University
