Mbithi, Michael Kinama from Kenya -April 2011 admission

It’s already been one and a half years plus a few days counting since I was blessed, so to speak, with the opportunity to come to Japan, the land of the rising sun, and more so the great Kyoto University that takes pride in several Nobel Laureates among many other honorable academic achievers. So far so good, life has been amazingly great with the very many new experiences I have encountered including new cultures, people, environment, and so on. Looking back, I don’t see a day where the thought of coming to Japan ever crossed my mind, but as far as the present counts, all I can say is; it is worth being here.

I have been able to make new friends not only from Japan but also other foreign students as well as people outside the school environment with whom we have engaged in so many activities together such as barbeque parties and so on, including the wonderful classmates I have too. Up to date, I must say I have visited a couple of places although am not really a fan of travelling. If I were to write about all of them, perhaps it would take too long. A good example is Yoshida Shrine that is just near my apartment. That shows how beautiful Japan must be. Amazing temples, countless festivals, traditional dressing, four beautiful seasons, delicious food, kind people, and unique way of writing…. The list is endless.

During this time I have also improved my Japanese language skills through extensive study including Kanji Chinese characters, grammar, and most of all putting them into practice in the social scenario. That reminds me, I have a Japanese Language Proficiency Test on December (JLPT). Time to sharpen my skills! I know you’re eager to hear other interesting encounters. If you are hesitant to come to Japan, this is the right place to be and more so the G30 program. Do not think twice! Cheers.