Japan: Fiona Finger (Final Reflections)

During my program, I stopped by the gym on our campus for a quick workout. While I was walking in, I saw a bunch of little girls with pom-poms heading upstairs. I used to dance and was involved in poms, so they brought back a lot of memories and I really wanted to watch some of the class. Although there is a strong language barrier, I still went up to the teacher to ask if I could watch their dance. Not only did the teacher say yes, but she invited me to help co-teach the class and dance along with the girls. It was such a unique and unexpected experience.

I was surprised at how easy it was to join the class, no waiver or any preparation required, they simply invited me inside. We were doing partner stretches, playing games, and dancing around to the music. I was shocked that some of the terms used for poms were English terms including “low V”, “high V”, and “shelf”. It’s super interesting that dance/sports can be like a universal language where the language barrier disappears and a group of strangers becomes a community of people all enjoying the same activity. Overall, one of my favorite experiences while abroad and a class I will never forget!

 

Fiona Finger

Hometown: Oconomowoc, Wisconsin

Major: Psychology; Spanish

Program: GHJ English Teaching Internship

I chose this program because this is an area of the world I have never been to, and I love working with children.

I am extremely excited to try the food and learn more about how Japanese society is different from American norms. I hope to learn at least 50 words in Japanese while abroad!

To explore international internship options available to UW-Madison undergraduate students, visit the intern abroad webpage or meet with an Intern Abroad advisor.