Student Voice: My experience in Akita, my first fall away from home – Hector Medina Borrego, University of Jaen, Spain

Hector Medina Borrego, University of Jaen, Spain is participating in our exchange program for Fall 2025. We would like to introduce his experience at AIU.

Over the past year, there have been several occasions when I have considered going abroad to study, but I never thought that I would finally make one of the best decisions possible: to come to Japan to study at AIU.

When I arrived in Akita, I didn’t expect to be so amazed by the movie-like landscapes and beautiful forests surrounding the campus. Visiting places like Lake Tazawa makes me want to travel every weekend to continue discovering the more rural areas of Japan.

During this experience, I have not only seen breathtaking landscapes, but also met incredible people who are accompanying me and making this place feel like home, no matter how far away it really is. The classes, karaoke at Bar Camellia, ping-pong games… Thanks to all this, these moments will be difficult to forget.

For those who are considering whether to study abroad, I would say don’t hesitate. It’s not just about being able to say you’ve lived abroad for a few months, it’s about gaining experiences, enjoying unique moments, and meeting wonderful people and places, as well as learning about different cultures that will help you grow as a person.

My first fall away from home makes me think that it probably won’t be my last, as I am really enjoying the experience.
Thank you to my university and AIU for allowing me to enjoy this adventure, to my family for supporting my decision, and to everyone who is accompanying me on this journey.
?Muchas gracias!