Hello, my name is Mie Kichiya. Last year, I studied at Portland State University as an exchange student from Waseda University in Japan. In Japan, I’m majoring in sustainability, and I wanted to learn more about environmental studies and sustainability, so I chose Portland, which is known as an environmentally friendly city, as my study abroad destination.
During my stay, I took several academic classes, such as “Environmental Sustainability” and “Environmental Ethics” in addition to the English classes. It was more difficult than I had imagined to understand the contents of these classes and complete the assignments in English. However, I was able to gain deep learning by reading difficult English literature and exchanging opinions with students whose native language is English, which I would not have been exposed to if I had only stayed at Waseda University. In addition, through learning and discussing with students from all over the world, I realized that the theme of sustainability and environmental issues was shared across countries and cultures. I was able to view these issues from a global perspective and learned new perspectives, values, and different ways of thinking.
Moreover, during my stay in Portland, I participated in several volunteer activities as a part of the Student Sustainability Center's Garden Team. I am working in the campus garden with other PSU students who are also interested in sustainability and environmental studies. It was a great pleasure for me to meet other people from the US and from all over the world who share the same interests.
To sum up, I felt that my study abroad goal to specialize in sustainability and environmental studies was well accomplished at Portland State University. Furthermore, I was able to improve my English language skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. The learning and encounters I had through my study abroad experience became precious assets to me. In my future, I would like to make efforts to contribute to a more sustainable society in Japan by utilizing the experience and knowledge I gained at PSU.
For anyone who is interested in sustainability and environmental issues, as well as for all those who aim for personal growth while being exposed to different perspectives and cultures, studying at Portland State University will surely be a great stimulus and growth opportunity. Thus, I highly recommend the Portland Center study abroad program.
Finally, I really appreciate all my teachers, friends, and Portland State University for supporting me during my study abroad experience. Thank you!