Teacher's Corner

Studying Abroad and Learn More About Yourself

by: S. McGee

日本語

Study abroad programs are very popular for a reason: they offer more to the students. But, what exactly are the benefits? Do you know someone who has gone to America or another English-speaking country? Your first step in finding the answer is to ask them about their trip.

What about the experiences of their trip that are difficult to explain? Maybe these are the most significant. For example, imagine being immersed in a foreign culture. Everyone around you has a different way of communicating - not just a different language, but different attitudes, body language, and so on.

What does body language show about a person or culture? Maybe the words they use explain the content of their ideas, but body language can show what they think about it, how they feel about the topic, and even how they feel about you.

Being immersed in a foreign culture will give you far more feedback about your communication than possible in a classroom. During your stay abroad everyone will be reacting to you, not just people you talk to, but everyone you "come across." This is because everyone communicates with body language, including you. So by being immersed in a foreign culture, you will easily notice the effect your communication has on others.

This awareness can be tiring, even a little stressful. But most people just feel excited. "Everything seems so new and different," people say. If you can keep an open mind, and especially if you are willing to try new things - remember, this is a rare opportunity to learn a foreign language at a deeper level - a study abroad experience can be the most memorable experience of your life.

"To come across"- run into, meet unexpectedly, see on the street, encounter (v.)

(Eigocafe welcomes submissions from native English speakers who wish to share their experiences in Japan. Please submit your article (800 words or less) and photo here. Thank you!)

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