So far in Sapporo, I have a learned a lot about myself.
I learned that humidity and I are not best friends, that I need to eat more than I thought I did, and that I need to appreciate the quiet moments more. It’s a journey to get to a place where you feel comfortable living in a new place, and I’m so lucky to be on this journey with friends. Having the classes has been a nice ease into Japanese life and culture, and although I haven’t had many chances to use my newfound Japanese language skills and vocab, having them in my back pocket does make me feel more comfortable walking around.
We’ve had four out of our five Japanese language classes; honestly, they have been a lot. A lot a lot. Each day has been feeling overwhelmed with new words and trying to catch the next tidbits. But I always leave the class feeling accomplished and like I have learned, which are always good feelings. How it works is we learn things in units; started off with greetings, and then we went into telling time, asking where questions, using adjectives, and ordering food. All practical and useful tips, and I’m so glad to have a teacher who really knows what she’s doing and so patient and eager to help us. In addition to the Japanese language classes, we get seminars about the education system and have a chance to work with the liaison to prep for our school visits. I have found these to be so useful because it gives us more knowledge and a deeper sense of expectations.
Today, September 9 (a Tuesday) has been our first school visit, and it was absolutely amazing! I had hard moments during the short time I was here, and it totally made everything worth it.
We joined the English teacher today, and we had the grade 5s and 3s; with the older kids, we practiced introducing ourselves with them and how to make “I/(s)he can” statements. It was so rewarding to be a part of their learning and see how excited they were to try new words and engage with new people. With the younger grade, we introduced shapes to them and got them to practice saying the words and finding items that fit. Although their English was limited (but probably better than some of our Japanese, haha), we were able to form those small connections with the kids and it was so special to see how interesting and engaged they were.
What I also very much appreciate about this program is we have been introduced to so many students from the partner university, and they have all been so lovely and kind. It is so interesting to meet teachers-in-training from Japan and compare programs, grade schools and experiences. And it is just very nice to meet new people and make new friends!
The hardest aspect of this program so far has been the online classes. Although we’ve only had two classes (one for each course), it is difficult when a professor is disorganized and not communicative. Many times I have found that I feel disconnected from what’s happening in the courses; and it pales in comparison in regard to how well the Japan classes are organized and engaging. However, I’m keeping an open mind and hope things feel more normal soon.
And although today was so, so, so good, I’m tired. But I’m looking forward to tomorrow and can’t wait to see what else I can learn!