Immersing oneself in a foreign culture can offer profound insights, as Jaidyn Thompson discovered during her time in Japan. The months spent in Yamaguchi not only honed her language skills but deepened her appreciation for astronomy through practical research with a radio telescope.
Why Yamaguchi, Japan?
Jaidyn Thompson, a student from Northern Arizona University’s Interdisciplinary Global Program (IGP), chose Yamaguchi University for her study abroad experience. Opting for this location allowed her to pursue a dual degree in language alongside her studies in physics and astrophysics. The unique opportunity to work with the Yamaguchi University Radio Telescope made Yamaguchi an attractive choice. Additionally, the peaceful countryside offered a stark contrast to Japan’s bustling urban centers, providing a new perspective often missed by travelers.
Academic and Research Endeavors
Thompson’s 11-month stay in Japan was characterized by an enriching blend of academic courses and hands-on research. Initially, she focused on Japanese language and cultural studies, which laid the groundwork for her subsequent research internship. Her hands-on work involved analyzing short-term wavelength variations of the binary system Algol using the university’s radio telescope. This experience was not only academically rewarding but also offered daily practice in Japanese, interacting with local and international peers.
Financial Aspects of Studying Abroad
Preparing for her time abroad, Thompson applied for several scholarships to manage her educational and living expenses. The Lumberjack scholarship was among the financial aids that supported her year in Japan. Additionally, she secured scholarships specifically for study abroad students and supplemented her income by tutoring English and facilitating conversation groups via Zoom with Japanese university students.
Expectations vs. Reality
Before her journey, Thompson anticipated that personal space would be highly valued in Japan. While this holds true in private settings, she found public spaces to be quite different. Crowded trains and busy streets often resulted in close physical proximity, an experience that deviates from her American norms. Upon returning to the United States, she noted the contrast in how public spaces are navigated in terms of personal space.
Cultural Awareness and Differences
One of the most striking differences Thompson observed between Japan and America was the deep-rooted respect within Japanese culture. This respect manifests in daily life, from maintaining silence in public spaces to the absence of litter. The educational system reinforces these values, as students participate in school cleaning and meal preparations. This cultural emphasis on respect and efficiency was one of the aspects that initially drew Thompson to Japan.
Impact on Future Goals
Thompson’s time in Japan profoundly influenced her personal, academic, and career aspirations. The experience rekindled her passion for astronomy, prompting her to reconsider her future in astrophysics. It also inspired her to explore other cultures and languages, driven by the belief that understanding a culture requires language proficiency.
Shifting Beliefs and Values
Prior to her study abroad experience, Thompson held a critical view of her American identity, compounded by the divided state of the nation and its international image. However, living in Japan and engaging with diverse perspectives unveiled a universal truth: all countries have their challenges. This realization helped her appreciate that American culture, despite its youth, possesses its own unique identity and value.
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