IES Abroad Tokyo Summer

There is so much to say about Japan and so many stories to tell but the best word to depict my experience would be, "fulfilling". The IES program did a great job in helping students to experience local culture to the fullest by providing exciting field trips such as Nikko, Kamakura and homestay. And homestay was definitely the highlight of the entire experience. It was the greatest opportunity to connect with the locals and get a better picture of Japanese cultures. In addition to these cool cultural discoveries, I was amazed by my own personal development. I learned to budget my own money and time as well as to study the most efficient way. For the past twenty years, I had problems with waking up early and procrastinating assignments. However, I became so responsible that I would get up at 6am every morning to study Japanese and spend at least 4 hours everyday to prepare for my upcoming quizzes and exams. Apart from studying, I also enjoyed touring around Tokyo with friends and talking to random strangers to practice my broken Japanese. It was astonishing to see how western culture was nicely blended in Japanese traditional cultures. Tokyo has over 20 prefectures and each of which has its own character and specialty. Definitely recommend to anyone who loves exploring and having fun! In experiencing life in another country, I found myself becoming more open-minded and, as a foreigner who spoke little of the native language, I felt humbled and appreciative of the kindness shown to me by IES staffs, students and host family. By far, it has been the most fantastic experience ever!

This was my first time visiting Japan, and I'm very happy that I chose IES. I was looking for a summer program in Japan, and this was the perfect fit for me. Overall, I had an amazing experience, and I would definitely do it again. I made so many new friends that I'm still in touch with, both in the program with me and Japanese locals. The academics were a little intense at 5 days a week, but it is a six-credit course. The housing accommodations are VERY small, even for Japan standards, so pack light. But don't worry, you'll have plenty of free time outside of classes, and I was active enough that the living situation didn't really bother me. The location is amazing, right by Yoyogi park and a 20 minute walk to Shibuya Crossing. The staff was extremely helpful, and the teachers are very kind and understanding. In short, if you are looking for a summer Japan program, I highly recommend this one. Also, don't let the language barrier intimidate you, you'll pick up on it faster than you'd think.

This is my first time experience with IES program and I love it so much! Everyone from the program was so friendly and helpful throughout the whole program, from pre-departure meeting until we left Japan. I was surprised of how fast they reply emails and how explicitly they explain your concerns. Also, they had ambassadors in our campus, (still do) who have participated in IES program before. It is always easy to approach to them asking questions about transferring credits and living experiences, etc. It is a 6-week program, Mon - Fri mornings have classes. Other than that, you are free to do anything in your free time. Classrooms are located right beside Yoyogi Park and is super close to Shinjuku, so it is really convenient if you want to explore center Tokyo. And it's only 20-minute walk to Harajuku. If you want to explore Japanese teenager fashion styles, just walk through Yoyogi park and it'll be right there. Housing is small, but I wouldn't complain about it since I didn't have much stuff and I didn't spend lots of time in the dorm. There are so many things to explore around! About the convenience, it's in the center of Tokyo! The closest railway station is Sangubashi Station, 5-minute walk away. Breakfast fee are included and around the station there are many restaurants as well so you won't have to worry about food and travel. :) Teachers are really nice! My teacher discussed about Anime she and her husband loved. :D It was Hunter x Hunter if anyone knows. Homework would be just around 1 - 2 hours per day depending what level you are in. There will be class day trip to wherever you choose (we went to aquarium). Besides, IES also provides several trips for you to experience Japan. I went to all of them. I loved home staying so much. It shows me how Japanese family live their lives and it was a fantastic experience. Please do all of the trips they provide if you ever go to Tokyo Summer with IES Program. One of the reasons would be they are all free ^ ^. Also it's a great way to get along with your mates in the program and to make local friends along the way. We go abroad to experience a new culture, to do everything that we would have no chance to do. If you have something in mind, don't hesitate and just do it. All these great trips prepared by IES Tokyo staff really created great memories. For suggestions before going abroad in general, pack things you will definitely need and leave those unnecessary things. Going to Tokyo will end up buying lots of cute things, manga, accessories and even clothes. If you keep good track on how much you spent every time, the cost wouldn't be too expensive. It would be better if you have places to go in mind, but don't worry if you don't have plans. You can just sit on the train for a whole day just to see every corner of Tokyo.