Mr. Ngwa Gerlad Ade, our former exchange student from University of Rwanda, who studied in Japan from September 2025 to August 2026 wrote an essay of his stay in Japan.
Please check it out!!
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Introduction
My name is NGWA GERLAD ADE, a Cameroonian student currently studying at the Protestant University of Rwanda. I had the privilege of participating in an exchange program at the Tokyo University of Foreign Studies (TUFS) from September 2025 to July 2026. Traveling to Japan and studying at TUFS has been one of the most transformative experiences of my academic journey. I am deeply grateful to everyone who made this opportunity possible. I extend my sincere appreciation to the Crowd Funding Contributors, whose generosity provided me with a round‑trip air ticket from Rwanda to Japan. I also thank JASSO for supporting my education and living expenses throughout my stay. My gratitude goes to the Student Exchange Division, the International Student Support Association (ISSA), and the African Studies Center for their continuous guidance, cultural support, and warm hospitality.
Academic Life
At TUFS, I took courses under the Faculty of Liberal Arts where I studied Peace related issues. It demanded both intellectual discipline and constant engagement. The learning environment was highly interactive, with frequent class presentations that pushed me to articulate complex ideas clearly and confidently. Assignments were sometimes difficult, often requiring critical analysis of conflict dynamics, peacebuilding theories, and real world case studies. These continuous tasks not only strengthened my research and communication skills but also deepened my understanding of how peace is studied, practiced, and sustained within diverse communities.
Social Life
My social life in Japan was full of exploration, excitement, and cultural discovery. I spent time visiting iconic places like Sensoji Temple, where I enjoyed traditional snacks and tried omikuji fortune‑telling, a small moment that felt both fun and meaningful. I also experienced the breathtaking views from Tokyo Sky-tree, wandered through Ueno Zoo, and even traveled beyond Tokyo to places like Shiga Kogen, where I saw the famous snow monkeys and tried skateboarding in the snowy landscape. Along the way, I tasted authentic sushi, joined lively festivals, and embraced the rhythm of Japanese culture I also visited Nikko and got to take pictures and experience the richness of the culture in that area, not forgetting the famous "Nikko Bridge", also known as "Shinkyo Bridge". Altogether, these experiences made my social life vibrant, adventurous, and deeply enriching.
Challenges
I faced a few difficulties that shaped my experience but never overshadowed the good moments. Navigating the train system was confusing at first, especially during the first week or two, when everything felt fast and unfamiliar. Managing dormitory life and handling bills also required adjustment, as budgeting in a new country came with its own pressures. At times, the weather added another layer of challenge, whether it was unexpected cold, intense heat, or sudden rain. Despite these hurdles, I adapted quickly, learned to manage my routines, and ultimately had a fulfilling and enjoyable time throughout my stay.
Despite these difficulties, each challenge taught me resilience, adaptability, and creativity. I learned to observe, ask questions, and adjust quickly, skills that will benefit me throughout my life.
Conclusion
In conclusion, my time in Japan was a meaningful blend of academic growth, cultural immersion, and personal discovery. Through peace related coursework, constant presentations, and challenging assignments, I strengthened my analytical and communication skills. Beyond the classroom, I explored vibrant social spaces from temples and festivals to snowy mountains and city landmark-search experience deepening my connection to the culture. Even the challenges, like navigating trains, adjusting to dorm expenses, and adapting to the weather, became valuable lessons that shaped my resilience. Altogether, these moments created a transformative journey that broadened my perspective and enriched my life in lasting ways. Although it is sad that my time in Japan is coming to an end, I do hold a lot of memories and I do hope I get to return soon because there is so much to explore. Thank you.
