Avery Bradley, Class of 2024
2023 Naha Exchange
Hosted Aoi Shimabukuro, Hosted by Saya Toma
Memorable Moments: One especially powerful moment I remember from my trip to Japan was visiting the Hiroshima Memorial. It was haunting to walk through the dimly lit halls of the memorial building and see picture after picture of burned victims and displaced families. I left with a heavy heart, realizing the impact of war, something that never really leaves. Overall, it was very surreal, and I think everyone should get a chance to visit and feel the same emotions I was able to that day.
Impact on Your Life: The memories I will carry for the rest of my life are so special and I wouldn't have been able to make them without this program! It was highly recommended that you know at least some Japanese before going on the trip. Luckily, I had some experience under my belt. People used to tell me that learning Japanese wouldn't be helpful for everyday use, but that never stopped me from taking it! Six whole years of Japanese helped me travel to Japan on an exchange trip twice! It has helped me build connections with wonderful people I never would have met otherwise. Japanese has helped me learn the repetition and discipline that comes with taking a difficult language. It has opened my eyes to new experiences and pathways. Even if I'm not fluent, I can say I've created remarkable moments that will stick with me forever.
Challenges and Growth: During my trip, I remember one day when all 15 of us needed to get lunch before going to our next activity for the day. We came across this small Okonomiyaki restaurant run by one woman. It was very hot and humid outside, all of us were tired and getting hangry, this restaurant was our only hope to refuel before our next adventure. My group needed someone to go in and ask if we could sit and eat. I was nervous but went in alone and asked if my group and I could come in and order. The woman said yes and soon we filled every chair in her small restaurant. She went straight to work, making food for all 15 of us by herself! We ate good that day and created lots of memories in that restaurant, we even took pictures with the woman who ran it! I'm not sure we would have gotten lunch that day if I hadn't been brave enough to step up and use my Japanese. I'm proud of myself and reflect on that day when I don't feel bold enough.
Life After the Exchange: I continue to text my exchange students from time to time through social media. I follow their Instagrams so we can see what one another is up to. I have committed to Willamette University where they have an exchange program that travels to Tokyo that I would like to be part of! I am going to take Japanese there as well.
Advice for Future Participants: Be open-minded during your stay, and don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone! It's a little scary to be in a new place with new people and a completely different language, but immerse yourself as much as you can and soak it all in!
Additional Comments: I am so lucky to have been able to be part of this amazing program, thank you so much to everyone who worked on this website! I'm so happy to have been able to create such a strong community through this exchange! Thank you!