留学生交流支援制度プログラムへの参加
千葉大学看護学部3年次生 白井美優さん
This program was my first experience of going overseas, so at the start I was filled with nervousness and anxiety. However, that changed to hope and enjoyment as the other program participants and I took our Korean language classes and studied the differences between the Japanese and Korean healthcare systems and other topics.
Taking part in this program allowed me to have many valuable experiences that I could not normally have. I explored the Seoul National University campus, attended lectures at its College of Nursing, and went on field trips to to major hospitals, health centers, and elder care facilities around Korea. The program reminded me how wonderful and noble nursing is. It involves us in people's lives: we think about what we can do to help someone else's mental and physical well-being and then provide them with suitable care. It made me feel truly glad that I had chosen to follow the path of nursing. I was also able by myself and at my own pace to deal with being in another country, an unusual environment for me. It also turned out to be a good opportunity to boost my motivation when it comes to my future studies.
Naturally, I did more than just study on the program. I also did quite a lot of sightseeing. I worked together with SNU nursing students on the program, so during our free time I got them to take me to out-of-the-way tourist spots and to inexpensive and tasty restaurants. I also got the chance to buy many souvenirs like cosmetics and food. I was also stimulated by Korean aesthetic sensibilities, which I became aware of by, for example, going with them after eating to exercise in the gyms at their dormitories. I have stayed in contact with all of the students since returning home.
My eight days in Korea turned out to be very enjoyable, and a treasure that could never be replaced. I am filled with gratitude to everyone—our professors who supported us, my fellow participants on the program, and the professors and students at Seoul National University. Even though we went to the same places and attended the same lectures, I think each and every one of us saw and felt something different. I encourage you to take part in a study-abroad program yourself and find your own answers!