Japan: Je-In Woo (Local interactions)

As a political science major, particularly interested in comparative politics, there would be no better opportunity to cherish than to participate in a political event while abroad. Thanks to my professor, I had an opportunity to witness the local politics of Japan and interact with a bunch of interesting people.

My professor in Japanese class, 津田先生、introduced me to a councilwoman of the Chiyoda district council, as I continuously appealed my interest in Japanese politics. After having lunch with the councilwoman, I was invited to her political party—Tomin First no Kai—‘s fundraising party/seminar. Although the event originally required a 20,000 yen ticket (which is around 150 dollars), she gave me one of her tickets so that I could enter the party without paying for it. With a delicious bento, I was able to learn a lot about Tokyo’s local politics and political agendas especially surrounding the low-birth rate problem of the city. I am planning to write a detailed essay about this experience once the midterm week finishes.

I think if you are active enough, and are not afraid of new experiences, these kinds of interesting opportunities may always come while you are abroad. I hope future exchange students will also expand their boundaries, challenge themselves, and have a fascinating time of deeply understanding local issues just like I did.