Noah Roberts - Fall 2022
I’m writing this letter to express my sincere gratitude for generously helping fund my study abroad in Japan. Growing up in a low-income household, the idea of studying abroad for an entire academic year was an incredibly daunting endeavor. I’m confident when I say I might not be here without your willingness to financially support students like me. I am having the time of my life here in Japan, gaining new experiences and advancing my studies, and I’m so incredibly grateful for the opportunity.
Japan has been wonderful thus far and narrowing down a particularly favorite moment is difficult. I moved into a student dorm and have made many close friends. Not a day goes by where we aren’t joking about something, talking about life, and, from time to time, groaning about homework. I couldn’t imagine an experience here without many of the guys I’ve become good friends with, and I know we’ll stay in touch long after I take my leave.
I’ve done my best to make use of my free time by exploring and visiting interesting places including various temples, parks, and museums. Particularly memorable was a long-weekend trip I took to Kyoto with some friends. We were able to visit Nijo Castle, the Imperial Palace, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple. The sights of Japan are beautiful and the blending of modernity with tradition gives everything both a holistic and unique feel. Japan really is like nothing I’ve ever seen and I can’t wait to see more.
Another highlight of being here is my studies. Specifically, the constant improvement of my Japanese. The ultimate goal in coming to Japan was to improve my language skills, and now I get to use what I know everyday to navigate life and talk with people. I feel myself improving constantly because of it. It is exactly what I was hoping for in my study abroad experience.
As my study abroad nears its half-way point, I will continue to explore the places, cultures, and customs Japan has to offer while advancing my studies. Shortly after the new year, some friends and I are planning on going to Hiroshima. Long before coming to Japan, I’ve wanted to observe the atomic bomb dome and visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. It’s an experience I know will grow from, and I’m excited to finally be able to go. Once more, thank you very much for helping make all these moments and memories possible. While I hope this letter is sufficient for now, I’d love for the opportunity to express my thanks in person should it ever be possible. This truly has been a life changing experience that I wholeheartedly understand would likely not have happened without your generosity. I’ve been able to learn and do so much - it’s hard to believe it’s only all just beginning. Thank you again!
Sincerely,
Noah Roberts
