The life of a Kazakh student in Japan

I am Diana Asylbekkyzy Pazylbekova, a 4th-year student in the "Translation Studies" specialty at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University. Currently, I am studying as an international exchange student at Hokkaido University in Sapporo, Japan. It has been two months since I arrived in Japan. During this short time, I have become acquainted with Japanese culture, and I have noticed that my Japanese language proficiency has improved.

I appreciate the education system at Hokkaido University, especially the ability for students to choose their subjects, a feature not commonly offered in many Kazakh universities. Due to my interest in language education systems, I have enrolled in classes such as "Issues of Learning Languages" and "Understanding and Practicing Languages" in addition to Japanese language and culture classes. These lessons focus on addressing language learning and translation challenges, teaching effective ways to learn and translate languages. The classes incorporate practical elements, including presentation defense, interviewing Japanese students, and teaching Japanese to beginners.

One distinctive aspect of Japanese universities is the existence of clubs catering to students' interests outside of regular classes. For instance, Hokkaido University boasts over 250 student clubs, ranging from piano and skiing to kendo. I have joined a club named "Nature Conversation," which provides opportunities to make friends and explore scenic places. Additionally, I am considering joining a piano club soon.

I have frequently heard about the breathtaking nature of Hokkaido, and witnessing it firsthand has confirmed its beauty. I appreciate the politeness of the Japanese people and their respect for the environment. The variety of food products available in shops is convenient. Since coming to Japan, sushi and takoyaki have been particularly delightful among Japanese dishes, and the sweets and dairy products in Hokkaido, where I reside, are especially delicious.

On weekends, I enjoy exploring new places and trying different foods with my international and Japanese friends. During school holidays, I plan to travel to other cities in Japan. I find my student life in Japan to be interesting, and I am confident that studying at Hokkaido University will be a significant experience that will greatly impact my development.