Introduction

Introduction

These days, we are a global society.

There is no denying the fact that given the mechanics of our country it is difficult and expensive to travel overseas. However, despite this, over twenty percent of Americans own a valid passport. I am one of them. My name is Josh and I am a student of the University of Rhode Island class of 2009. When I wrote this blog, I was a senior who had spent over eighteen years in Rhode Island, my life changing yearly in the same way that the New England foliage bares its secret to the world year after year, falling and reforming. Each year was a little bit different with colors shaded by experience. One such experience, and the theme of this series of articles, was my recent study abroad experience in Osaka, Japan. I hope that I can provide you, the reader, with a glimpse of a new perspective that we as Exchange students hold during our times abroad. It encompasses feelings of excitement, feelings of frustration, and sometimes even feelings of honest awe at the differences that are easy to misunderstand and yet, with a little careful consideration, can become a point of connection and not separation.

I owe the success of my trip to the support of both the Benjamin Gilman Scholarship and the Freeman Asia Scholarship. Without the support of their dedicated staff and financial counseling, many a young person from humble backgrounds, such as myself, could not have lived their dreams. This is dedicated to them, and to my University for supporting me throughout my exchange.

-Table of Contents-

Dancing in the Streets
Igneous Landscapes
Valentine's Day
Exploring the World on only one pair of shoes
Relax! Go ahead, read a book.
Sakura, Sakura
Itadaki! Food in Japan.
Takarazuka Review, the all female troupe
Youth Hostelling