Student Voice: AIU Is a Place Like No Other – Benjamin BRUINOOGE, High Point University, U.S.A.

Benjamin BRUINOOGE from High Point University, U.S.A. is participating in our exchange program for Spring and Fall 2024. We would like to introduce his experience at AIU.

I had wanted to visit Japan ever since I was very young- probably about 7 or 8 years old. I remember reading an article about a Japanese robot named ASIMO and being enamored with its sleek design and (at that time) astounding capabilities.

I remember thinking to myself “I need to go to the country that made ASIMO!” nearly every day. Japan seemed like a country from the future, and even though I forgot about ASIMO after a few years, my impression of Japan as a fascinating and wonderful place never left me.

I was lucky enough to be able to visit Tokyo for a couple of weeks in 2022, and while it was an amazing experience, it ended up leaving me wanting more.

AIU is a truly unique place

My time at AIU has allowed me to fulfill my dreams of staying in Japan while also exceeding my expectations about what this country has to offer. I believe that AIU is a truly unique place not only within Japan, but the entire world. I attended an international school from the 5th grade to the end of high school, but I’ve still never seen anything like AIU students’ enthusiasm for different cultures and countries.

There’s an infectious curiosity and enthusiasm about the world and academia here that I never expected to find tucked away in rural Japan. Before arriving here I had thought that I would be spending all of my time here grinding away at the language and my studies, but before I knew it I was involved as an FLCP* English conversation partner, volunteering at local schools, and participating in rice farming while getting to know local farmers.

*FLCP: Foreign Language Conversation Partner Program

LDIC

Community Outreach

I’ve been able to see some beautiful scenery and historic landmarks as well, which has made me appreciate Akita’s landscapes and history all the more.

I was able to visit the dreamlike Mototaki Waterfalls. There are many more in that location, so if you are able I highly recommend visiting it and taking photos!

“(Lady) Shi of the West” statue found at Nemu no Oka, Kisakata Roadside Station. There are many different Akita souvenirs here and lots of delicious food!

The passion AIU’s student body and staff have for providing these opportunities made me remember the dreams I had about Japan back when I was in elementary school.

Even though I’m staying in rural Japan, with no robots in sight, it feels undeniable that AIU has the same energy that gripped me so many years ago. You truly feel as if you’re working with the people who will shape the world of tomorrow.

The experiences I’ve had at AIU and the lessons I’ve learned have motivated me to apply for a second semester of attendance. I’m very excited to experience even more of Japan and make many more unforgettable memories!

If you’re reading this and are at all interested in applying for a semester, please do so!

Being able to experience everything AIU has to offer is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.