My Journey of Building an Academic Journal in English from the Ground Up, Gaining Confidence and Experiencing a Breakthrough in America
Name: Yuasa Sota
Faculty/Department/Year (at the time of study abroad): Faculty of Economics, Department of Economics, second-third year (second year at departure, third year upon return)
Study Abroad Period: August 2024 – August 2025
Study Abroad Destination (Country/University): United States of America, Tennessee Tech University
Study Abroad Type: Exchange Program
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.
What prompted you to consider studying abroad?
During my first year, I joined “Study Visit to the International Organizations in Geneva”, a practice-based program. I was inspired by the UN staff working on-site and highly motivated peers, which led me to pursue economics in English and strive for an international career.
How did you choose your study abroad destination (country and university)?
I prioritized English-speaking countries known for their high safety standards. When selecting a university, I looked specifically for institutions with excellent economics programs, particularly those offering an advanced math education. I also assessed whether the environment would be challenging while still allowing me to improve my English skills. Based on these criteria, I chose Tennessee Tech University.
What concerns did you have before studying abroad?
My primary concerns were my English skills and my health. I was especially worried about keeping up with technical courses taught in English and about earning credits. I was also concerned about the high cost of healthcare in the U.S. and worried about unexpected injuries or illnesses.
What did you do to prepare for studying abroad, and is there anything you wish you had done differently?
I did some prep work on Khan Academy, visited the doctor (especially the dentist), got vaccinations, and stocked up on medication.
On the other hand, I wish I had checked where the supermarkets were located and packed enough food to last until I settled in.
What was the atmosphere like at the university and among the students?
The atmosphere was very warm. People were supportive of international students and patiently listened to me despite my broken English. Students and professors also had a close relationship, creating a relaxed learning environment. Even when I made mistakes on assignments, professors responded in a kind manner.
How did you expand your social circle?
I mainly made friends through group work in classes, the local Japanese community, and activities like chess and swimming. Participating in extracurricular activities made it easier to overcome language barriers because we had shared interests.
Were there differences compared to Japan in terms of class atmosphere, learning content, or exams?
Classes were often small, highly interactive, and involved active engagement between students and the instructor. There were many practical, hands-on exercises, and frequent quizzes meant that daily effort was valued in the grading system, in addition to midterms and finals.
Outside of academics, what drew your interest the most?
I traveled during the winter break. I planned and prepared everything on my own, and I toured the southern United States for a week. I had always wanted to visit the Houston Space Center, and I finally did. I also got to see former exchange students I met at Sophia University and friends from high school.
What were the unique charms of your study abroad destination, and what new discoveries did you make?
Being part of the local community on campus was something to be embraced. Wherever I went, whether to the bank or the supermarket, I encountered Tennessee Tech students and alumni who welcomed me warmly as a peer. It was an experience that only a university with a strong regional presence could offer.
What was the most memorable event or the most striking event you encountered?
The first was the Dean’s List award ceremony. I went wearing a suit, anticipating Japanese formality, but everyone else was in casual attire. My firsthand experience of the “land of freedom” was a shocking revelation. Second was extending my stay. I did this to join the university’s summer research program. I applied for Academic Training to extend my stay and wrote a research paper. Receiving funding for undergraduate research came as a pleasant surprise.
Any troubles or challenges did you face while studying abroad? How did you overcome them?
When I extended my stay to conduct research, the local banking system could not accommodate the change, and my account was frozen. I was at risk of losing my living funds, but with the help of my host family and a university alumnus who worked at a bank, I was able to open a new account and overcome the crisis.
In what ways do you feel you have grown or changed in terms of your mindset before and after studying abroad?
I gained the courage to believe that “things will work out somehow.” Facing one challenge after another, such as taking STEM courses in English and completing an unusual research internship, yet managing to overcome them all, has made me much more proactive in taking on new challenges.
How do you think your study abroad experience will impact your future life?
Pursuing further graduate studies has given me significant confidence and tangible achievements through completing specialized courses and writing a thesis in English. Furthermore, the mental maturity I gained from overcoming challenges in an unfamiliar environment will serve as a solid foundation for my future life.
Do you have any advice for those considering studying abroad?
I believe that your student years are a privileged period, a time when failure can be endured. The potential benefits greatly exceed any drawbacks, making these years the optimal time to make significant life changes. Once you take that first step, things tend to fall into place smoothly. So please, take that first step!