I studied abroad in the spring of 2024, from March to August, at Chukyo University in Nagoya, Japan. During my time there, I took intensive Japanese language classes, as well as courses focused on international perspectives, including Global Media and Culture, Workshop in Intercultural Communication, and Global Business and Leadership. These classes not only deepened my understanding of Japanese language and society, but also gave me a broader view of how culture and communication intersect on a global scale.

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However, while looking for some inspiration for my study abroad reflection, I kept coming across the same kinds of stories—how Japan “changed” people, how different everything was, how the culture shock was overwhelming, and how the experience was completely transformative. And I don’t think that this isn’t true for many people. However, it made me realize that my time in Japan felt… surprisingly familiar.