Alumni Voice: A Life-Changing Experience－Jaelin Williams, State University of New York at Oswego, U.S.A.

What do you want to experience at AIU? What do you want to become through study abroad?

In this series of articles, we would like to introduce the articles from past exchange students who have completed their studies at AIU. They will share the most memorable experience, what they learned and how the AIU experience helped them now,  and what they would like to tell international students who are thinking of studying at AIU.

The purpose of studying abroad is different for everyone, but we hope that the stories of alumni will encourage you to consider studying abroad at AIU as a place of learning.

Here is a message from Jaelin Williams. He was an exchange student who stayed at AIU in Fall 2016 Semester.

Mr. Jaelin Williams at Oga Peninsula, Akita, during an AIU sponsored trip

My most memorable experience at AIU and what I would like to tell international students who are thinking of studying at AIU:

Studying abroad at AIU was definitely one of the most enjoyable and defining moments of my life. This experience taught me many things about the world that I would not have otherwise learned in my home country (the USA).

Taking the initiative to travel outside of my comfort zone, live away from my homeland, and humble myself to adapt to the language, customs, food, people, traditions and culture of Akita and Japan definitely made me into a better person, and a more well-rounded individual.

I became lifelong friends with students from Japan and other countries, and created many unforgettable moments during my time here. My amazing experience at AIU motivated me to return to Akita and Japan again for vacation and work.

One unique aspect of AIU is that because it is located in a rural area of Japan, you will have the opportunity to meet and interact with people who have had few prior interactions with foreigners and other English speakers. You can serve as a cultural bridge and leave a lasting positive impact on their lives.

The AIU Festival was truly the embodiment of this, and my most memorable experience at AIU. It was awesome to be in a rural area of Japan like Akita, yet see such a diverse group of students hosting a festival that many local people in the area attended and really enjoyed. I had the privilege of playing guitar for the brass band and rock band clubs on stage during the festival in front of my friends, fellow students, staff and local visitors; a moment I will never forget. Choosing to study at AIU will undoubtedly be one of the best decisions of your life!

At the AIU festival