Name: Yumi Sakurada Faculty/Department/Year (at the time of study abroad): Faculty of Economics, Department of Economics, 2nd Year Study Abroad Period: February 28 – March 8, 2025 Study Abroad Destination (Country/University): South Africa Study Abroad Type: Social Engagement Programs, Intro. to the History & Contemporary Society of Africa B
Every year, many Sophia University students study abroad in countries all over the world outside of Japan. How did they manage to find their way through the differences in languages, cultures, and lifestyles? Here are some voices of students who studied abroad.
I’ve always been drawn to the idea of studying abroad and wanted to challenge myself. The Social Engagement Programs at Sophia University was a unique opportunity, and the fact that it was short-term and compatible with my other obligations was the deciding factor.
As a student, I’d always wanted to visit Africa. Since I was scheduled to participate in an exchange program starting in the fall of my third year, spring break was my last chance to take part. I had been passed over in the selection process for this program during my first year, so I tried again hoping to make up for it.
Since Africa is far from Japan, I was worried about not being able to turn to my home country for support if anything happened. I was also concerned about how well I could cope with local hygiene conditions or the long flight.
To prepare for the on-site studies, I read the assigned materials and gave presentations on topics that interested me during the initial lectures . However, now that I look back, I regret not reading the materials more thoroughly. The on-site lectures assumed full comprehension of the materials, and I sometimes struggled to keep up, which was frustrating.
The campus buildings had a traditional and charming feel. I was a regular visitor to the humanities buildings, where the law and social sciences departments were located. Their natural, comfortable setting reminded me of Sophia University. The students were friendly and easy to talk to. In some ways, they were similar to young Japanese people, as in their interest in TikTok.
I made the most of all the opportunities to connect with local students through active learning, hiking, dinners, and more. I made a conscious effort to talk to other students whenever possible. I also noticed that other students often took photos or videos together. I wasn’t great at it myself, but they seemed to bond instantly by doing so.
My schedule was packed every day, but I tried to participate in every activity and spend as much time as possible with the local friends. That said, it’s okay to skip events based on your energy level. You don’t have to push yourself too hard!
I was fascinated by the friendliness of the people and the depth of their history. While classroom lectures often focused on the concepts of “apartheid” and “racial segregation,” visiting the actual sites and seeing the landmarks that convey the reality and significance of these issues transformed that knowledge into a tangible experience. This made learning much more concrete.
I was shocked by the economic disparity in the area. The city center is a waterfront area with trendy restaurants, which was a completely different image than what I had envisioned of “Africa.” Yet, just a few minutes’ drive away, slums and ruins spread out, showing me the clear disparity within the city.
I was a student leader for the program. Being a leader for the first time overwhelmed me. I put too much pressure on myself, so my communication was awkward, and when I needed to take the lead, I stumbled. I came to understand the value of counting on others, including my fellow leaders, and the significance of voicing my concerns, even when I was distressed. This important experience taught me that, no matter the role, it is essential to act and reach out to others.
Sophia University offers excellent overseas programs, and I highly recommend participating in one. You will learn a lot, have a great time, and broaden your horizons!
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When Knowledge Transforms into Experience: Exploring History and Disparity in South Africa
