Xesco (Andorra)
Q. Why did you choose to study Japanese in Japan?
When I was very small, I remember being interested in martial arts. From the age of five I started practicing karate, and dreamed of being able to train in a Japanese dojo one day. From there, I became interested in Japanese music, history, food, anime and manga, hoping to be able to live in Japan, my biggest dream. That is when I first thought it was important to be able to understand Japanese and started to learn it.
Q. Is this your first time in Japan?
No, it is my tenth time. Until now, I was coming during my holidays. I really like so many things about Japan. I believe I have a special bond with this country. Before coming here to study, I visited other Asian countries, but the vibes Japan gives me are unique.
Q. Did you worry about anything?
As I have been here many times before, I knew the bare minimum for survival. However, my biggest worry was what I would do in case my I had not been able to come as a student.
Q. How long have you been studying in ARC?
Five months. Everything depends on how fast I can gain fluency and whether I will be able to find a job, but I am planning to study here for at least one year.
Q. Is there any class you are glad you took or that you want to take?
For now, I just want to learn as much Japanese as possible. Once I am fluent enough, maybe I can think about the Graduate School Preparation Class or the Business Japanese Class. Now I am just focusing on absorbing everything in the regular class.
Q. What are you doing outside of school time?
The time I spend in school is only a few hours per day, but almost every evening I go out with Japanese and foreign friends for dinner. Recently, I started working part-time, so a few days a week I also have work now.
Q. Where are you living now? How did you find your accommodation?
I am living in a sharehouse. I found it on a dedicated website. The rent for one place there was the cheapest.
Q. Do you think the cost of life in Japan is expensive?
Yes, definitely more expensive than in my own country.
Q. Are you working part-time now?
Yes, in a Spanish restaurant. I found it with the help of the school staff. They helped me look for a suitable place to work and what I needed to prepare.
Q. Have you had any trouble since you arrived?
No, not really.
Q. What is your plan once you graduate from ARC?
I would like to find employment in a field somehow connected with my specialization. I believe it is hard toe find employment in Japan, but I definitely want to give it a try.
Q. Do you have any recommendation for other people who are considering the study abroad experience?
My advice is to put aside the funds needed, find out what you want to do in Japan, then make your dreams come true! This in order to have no regret once you come here, In Japan, one can make more encounters than expected, and earn many things. From customs, to culture, lifestyle, the beautiful landscapes, the festivals and events, Japan is a unique place in the world!
