Week 1 in Japan
To conclude my first week in Japan, I can say that Japan is living up to my expectations of everything I hoped it would be. Attending ICLA has already given me many friends from all around the world, including France, Mexico City, and the Philippines, to name a few. The first few days I spent here taught me more about myself, like how I can ride a bike, and I proved myself by bicycling to Kofu Castle and back with my friends. Mind you, I had never been on a street with other cars before. I was shaking like we had to take a couple of breaks for sure cause, man, I was putting myself out of my comfort zone, but that’s precisely why I came here. To push my limits on what I can do. And you know what Im a pretty good bike rider. It was scary at times, but hey, I figured it out. I've made the trip on bike to Kofu Castle twice now, and each time, I got faster and had to take fewer breaks. I've also decided on what courses I want to take this semester. Fundamentals of Sound and Music, intro to Filmmaking, ELA, Aikido, Intro to Data Science, College Success, and my Japanese Language class. I know it may seem like a lot, but 2 of these classes are only worth one credit, and they are mandatory this semester, so next semester, I should be able to take more fun stuff as well. I could take math next semester; I do not have to do that now. Anybody who knows me will tell you that Math is not my strong suit.
I'm so excited to continue exploring the city of Kofu. I even took the train myself one day to do karaoke and sang my little heart out. I love the ice cream here; it’s so delicious (Oishi). I've had some of the best food at low prices. You can get a full meal with a drink, rice, miso soup, and a main dish for about 1000 yen, which is around 7-8 US dollars. Everything is affordable here out in the countryside. I am still not used to eating 3 meals a day, but I am enjoying it. Having a meal plan is fantastic. That pretty much sums up my first week in Japan. I can’t wait to write about our entrance ceremony and my trip to Tokyo soon.
