From Indiana to Japan: a Journey of Global Engagement

That all changed when I had the opportunity to participate in a two-week cultural exchange program in Japan during my sophomore year of high school. This life-changing experience opened my eyes to a world beyond my own small corner of Indiana and ignited a passion for global engagement and cultural exchange that has continued to shape my worldview ever since.

Stepping off the plane in Tokyo, I was immediately struck by the stark contrast between the bustling city and the quiet countryside I had grown accustomed to. Everything from the language to the customs felt foreign to me, but I approached each new experience with an open mind and a willingness to learn. Through staying with a Japanese host family, attending school with local students, and participating in various cultural activities, I was able to immerse myself in a completely different way of life.

One of the most profound moments of my trip occurred during an excursion to Hiroshima, where we visited the Peace Memorial Park and Museum. As I stood before the A-Bomb Dome, a haunting reminder of the devastating impact of war, I was overwhelmed with a sense of empathy and a desire to promote peace and understanding across cultures. This experience sparked my interest in international relations and inspired me to pursue a career dedicated to fostering global cooperation and cultural understanding.

Since returning from Japan, I have actively sought out opportunities to continue engaging with diverse perspectives and cultures. In my school, I joined the International Club, where I had the opportunity to interact with students from various countries by organizing cultural events and discussions. Additionally, I enrolled in Japanese language classes and volunteered as a tutor for English language learners. These experiences further deepened my appreciation for cultural diversity and strengthened my ability to communicate and connect with individuals from different backgrounds.

Looking ahead to my time at Indiana University (IU), I am eager to further expand my global engagement and continue fostering cultural exchange. IU's emphasis on global engagement aligns perfectly with my personal values and aspirations. I am particularly drawn to IU's wide range of study abroad programs, which would provide me with the opportunity to explore new cultures and gain firsthand experience in different regions of the world.

Furthermore, I intend to take advantage of IU's diverse student body by getting involved in student organizations and clubs that celebrate different cultures. By actively participating in these groups, I hope to engage in meaningful conversations, share experiences, and foster a sense of community among students from various backgrounds.

In addition to extracurricular activities, I plan to pursue a degree in International Studies at IU to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to contribute to the global community. I am particularly interested in studying the diplomatic relations between countries and analyzing the impact of cultural exchanges on international politics. By delving deeper into these subjects, I believe I can make a significant contribution to promoting cross-cultural understanding and cooperation.

IU's wide array of resources, such as the Global and International Studies Building and the Language Workshop, will undoubtedly enhance my educational journey. By taking advantage of these resources, I can further develop my linguistic abilities, expand my understanding of global issues, and connect with faculty and students who share my passion for cultural exchange.

Moreover, I am excited to participate in IU's cultural events and festivals, such as the Chinese New Year celebration and the International Street Fair. These events provide a wonderful opportunity to experience different cultures firsthand and celebrate the diversity that IU prides itself on.

In conclusion, my meaningful cross-cultural experience in Japan opened my eyes to the importance of global engagement and cultural exchange. This experience not only shaped my worldview but also instilled in me a deep passion for fostering cross-cultural understanding. During my time at IU, I plan to continue engaging with diverse perspectives and cultures by actively participating in student organizations, pursuing a degree in International Studies, and taking advantage of the university's extensive resources. By doing so, I hope to contribute to IU's legacy of global engagement and make a positive impact on the world around me