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by: Isabella Rusate ’26
A train packed shoulder-to-shoulder with “salarymen,” high school students, and those wanting to get home but need to brace the rush hour first. On the walk home, an old woman and her husband sell shaved ice in a small shop. Their playful banter would bring a smile to anyone’s face as the woman counts out change. The cold cherry shaved ice cuts through the brutal summer heat, even the droning sound of the cicadas.
I spent last fall studying abroad in Tokyo, a vibrant metropolis that still reflects its deep traditional culture and practices.
My time in Japan will always be a fond memory. It was my first time on a plane, and my first time taking agency for such a big decision.
When people ask why I chose Japan, I usually break it down into the logistics: Japan is safe, affordable, the public transportation is great, and the food is delicious. But when it really came down to it, the reason is much simpler, I just had a feeling that I would really like it.
When people ask why I chose Japan, I usually break it down into the logistics: Japan is safe, affordable, the public transportation is great, and the food is delicious. But when it really came down to it, the reason is much simpler, I just had a feeling that I would really like it.
Isabella Rusate
I remember talking with one of my professors when I was on the fence about whether to study abroad. He told me if I was able to do it, I should go while I was still a student and had more time on my hands. Truthfully, I would share that same advice with anyone. Nothing beats the sense of accomplishment, joy, and pride I felt when I stepped off the plane at Haneda Airport, or when USJ’s Study Abroad Director Rachel Payne informed me that I would be the first one in this program to travel to Japan.
I chose to study abroad for the entire fall semester. There was a lot of preparation to be done, like acquiring a passport, and proper documentation, including a certificate of entry and student visa. That can take a while, which is why planning ahead is such a crucial step. Still, it was not an intimidating process. Dr. Payne and API, our study abroad program, helped break each task into manageable steps and were available for consultation and extra help every step of the way.
While I was abroad, I completed classes towards my Studio Arts minor, as I had already completed all the requirements for my English major the semester prior. I took classes at the Tokyo campus of Lakeland University. The campus is located in the district of Ryogoku, famous for its sumo stadium and sumo-related attractions. I had a positive experience at Lakeland. My professors were Americans who have chosen to live and build careers in Japan.
I also got the opportunity to connect with Japanese students, and forge friendships. As for living arrangements, I was in a dorm with other students from the United States. The building was a 20-minute train ride from campus, a commute I easily memorized within a week without the aid of Google Maps. I was in a room of my own, on a floor with other women. The Lakeland campus did not have many of the amenities that are the hallmarks of the American campus experience. There is no dining hall or separate buildings for offices or other amenities. There are many other positive trade-offs. While the ease and efficiency of public transportation was unmatched, Tokyo is also a very walkable city. The grocery store was a three-minute walk away, the train station and ATM were ten minutes away, and a pharmacy and convenience store were right around the corner.
Throughout the course of the semester API, our study abroad program, organized trips and activities for us to enjoy. These helped strengthen friendships, enrich our experience, and connected us to resources like the bullet train and museums.
One of the most memorable experiences was a weekend excursion to Kyoto that included shrine visits, scenic views, and shopping. There are countless stores to enjoy, from stationery shops to a variety of hobby stores.
Sometimes the best adventures came from getting off at the wrong station.
Isabella Rusate
There are also many attractions, like the Skytree Christmas light show in November and the firework festivals in late summer. One of my favorite memories was attending the Japan Cup 2025, a famous horse race in Fuchu. There is so much to do in Tokyo that it can be overwhelming. Planning what I wanted to do for the week helped, but I’d recommend that those visiting be sure to make room for spontaneity. Sometimes the best adventures came from getting off at the wrong station.
Studying abroad once felt like a far-off dream, but by saving up, planning, and with the help of our study abroad program, it became a reality for me. I would encourage USJ students who are considering studying abroad to take the leap and do it. Your horizons will be broadened, and you will emerge a different person. The memories you make will stay with you for a lifetime.