Let's See How Difficult This Will Get...

Now begins the second week of classes. Most people are switching in and out of them yet I'm happy to say that I'm only dropping one. I still haven't decided whether or not I will add another class. I would like the opportunity to explore Japan and I'm not sure how hard my classes will be and how much time I'll be allowed to do what I want. So we'll see!

So far I like most of my classes. My Japanese class is very easy which I've chosen not to be upset about because I assumed most of my learning would be done outside of the classroom. Most of my classes focus on business and culture and it leaves me wishing they offered classes that were aimed more towards foreign students. I'm jealous of my friends in Kyoto who have the option to study calligraphy and the tea ceremony. I thought that a key part to understanding the Japanese and going into business with them would require someone to understand their culture and history. I guess I will be learning that on the streets as well. (^_^) So far my favorite class is my Japanese Culture 2 class. The teacher is a nice woman that has put together an excellent syllabus that I really think will be where most of my cultural knowledge will soon come from. I'm happy to know that there really isn't any homework in my classes except for my Japanese class. I learn mostly from taking notes which is part of all my classes. I will be putting most of my effort into my finals, three of which are papers ranging between 6-10 pages. Two of my classes actually have field trips! Overall, I'm excited for this semester.

One downside that's become apparent very quickly since I've been here is that difficulty most 留学生 (foreign students) are having with securing things that are necessary for us to survive here. One of the biggest issues I've experienced is how I'm going to receive money while I'm here. After about a month of hassle and multiple phone calls with Citi Bank, I finally have an account with them and a card is on the way. Yet, my funds are dwindling and there are still things I need to pay for that are very necessary. My only complaint with Western's study abroad program is that there wasn't a lot of help given to us on keeping in touch with our families so that we can receive money. Not only that, but getting things like our cell phones, alien registration, and commuter pass have been really difficult. Most of it we couldn't of done without the help of our Japanese friends that we knew before we arrived in Tokyo. I hope that's an issue that is solved and figured out a little better than what we're experiencing now. It's already stressful living in another country where you vaguely understand the language but it's even more difficult when you have to way to receive necessary funds.

Well~I think that was enough ranting and going on about classes. Until next time!