How to Survive Going On Exchange

Photo: Arielle wearing a yukata (traditional dress, far left in the upper row) and her exchange partner Mioka (centre of the upper row).

Many of us dream of travelling the world, learning new languages and experiencing different cultures. Last August, I had the chance to do just that on a short cross-cultural exchange to Japan with eight other Albertan students.

For two and a half months, I attended Tsukisamu High School in Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido. My exchange partner from Japan, Mioka, was a high-school student who showed me around and helped me live out the daily life of a Japanese student. Mioka and her family were exceptional, making sure I was comfortable in my new settings.

Photo: Arielle at a tea ceremony (bottom row in the very centre) with her exchange partner Mioka (far right in the bottom).

If are interested on going on going on exchange, here are the top five things to expect as an exchange student:

Becoming Tired
After the enthusiasm wears off, a bit of anxiety kicks in. Between the general culture shock, lack of knowledge of the language and activities planned for you by your host family and teachers, a pronounced tiredness is to be expected on cultural exchanges.

Getting to Know Yourself
Think of an exchange trip like moving to college and living with a roommate. You’re going to find yourself both loving and hating your partner at the same time. She may be a fun positive person, but living with her can really enlighten you to some of your pet peeves, as well as the qualities you tend to look for in a friend. You’ll also learn a lot of patience towards others while on your exchange.

Being an Anomaly
While I was in Japan, I was the only Caucasian in the school I attended. I stood out from the crowd a lot, and most of the students knew who I was. It’s like moving into a small, rural town where everyone knows everyone and, all of a sudden, you’re the one sticking out.

Experiencing Different World Perspectives
During an exchange, you’ll meet new people and experience different ways of living. While you’re staying with your host family, it is generally recommended that you adapt to their specific way of living in order to fully experience the culture.

You will also encounter people who have stereotypes of the country you came from, or your ethnic background. These aren’t meant to be insults, and most people are just curious to see if these stereotypes are true, so you’ll only have to say a few words to set any wrongs right.

Meeting New People and Making New Friends
Obviously, you must be ready to meet others and make new friends, or you’ll have a very lonely trip ahead. Be polite, ask questions and say “thank you”!

Exchanges can be the experience of a lifetime. As with every other experience, there are positives and negatives, but an exchange student must make the best of both. If you want to experience something new and learn about our world, than an exchange trip is a choice you won’t regret.