Mid-Long term program at HDU

Name Nanami Okada 
Faculty 1st year of Master’s degree, Mechanical Engineering Course, Department of Engineering
Period of Study Abroad September 2024 to January 2025

 

Q What motivated you to study abroad?

The main reason I decided to study abroad was that I wanted to take the first step toward becoming a global talent by spending an extended period abroad and conducting research. Other reasons include my previous participation in the A3I Winter School, my major in Chinese as a second foreign language, and my interest in Chinese culture and lifestyle, which ultimately led me to choose China for my study abroad.

 

Q What is something that left a strong impression on you during your study abroad? How was the life at HDU?

During my time studying abroad, I had many opportunities to experience different cultures in an environment where I was the only Japanese person. I was able to learn about different values and customs. What surprised me the most was that, more people were familiar with Japanese culture and expressed interest in it than I had expected. I also found Chinese-style Japanese culture to be interesting. Additionally, I truly felt the strong influence of Japanese culture through J-POP, anime, and other aspects.

My lifestyle during my study abroad was quite similar to the life in Japan, with a focus on research and studying. However, I was able to discover cultural differences in my daily life, which made every day enjoyable. The biggest challenge I faced was language and communication, but I continuously studied the language and dedicated myself not only to my research activities but also to improving my language skills.

 

Q What courses did you take during your study abroad? How were the classes?

The courses I took during my study abroad were as below:
・Online courses from the University of Yamanashi: “Advanced Manufacturing,” “Advanced Material Mechanics” and “Advanced Mechanical Systems Engineering”
・Courses from HDU: “Chinese” and “Data Structure”

The classes for international students were conducted in English, and although the teaching styles varied depending on the instructor, I felt that the atmosphere was very relaxed and free.

For example, in the “Chinese” class, the teacher played their favorite music during breaks, creating a relaxed environment for the class. Additionally, there were sessions where upperclassmen took on the role of teachers and taught less experienced students, and the course content was decided by taking students’ opinions into account.

Although my language level was lower than others, in the “Data Structure” class, the teacher adjusted the pace according to the students’ understanding, so I was able to follow the class without any issues. At first, I struggled to understand the technical terms and explanations, but over time, I became accustomed to it, understood the class content, and was able to ask questions.

 

Q How much did your study abroad cost?

Tuition Payment to University of Yamanashi
Expenses incurred before departure Visa Application Fee 8,000 JPY + Transportation cost to the Tokyo Visa Center
Dormitory fee 0 JPY (a shared room in the student dormitory)
Textbook fees 0 JPY (The necessary materials will be distributed online)
Living expenses Food expenses: 30,000 JPY/month
Utility costs (electricity, water, gas): 600 JPY/month
Transportation costs: 6,000 JPY/month
Entertainment expenses 30,000-60,000 JPY/month (Dining out and outings with friends)
Other Post-arrival visa application fee: 8,000 JPY
Internet + VPN costs: 4,000 JPY/6 months
SIM card cost: 5,000 JPY

※JASSO Scholarship (60,000 JPY/month) afforded

 

Q One day Schedule

07:00 Wake up
07:30 Depart for the university. Travel by rental electric scooter, stopping along the way to buy soy milk for breakfast.
08:00~11:15 Online class of UY
12:00~13:00 Lunch with friends at the campus cafeteria
13:00~18:00 Research or assignments in the lab
18:30~20:05 Data Structure class
20:05~21:00 Dinner at the campus cafeteria
21:05~22:00 Research or assignments in the lab
22:30 Return to the dormitory
24:00 Go to bed