Get Leah to Japan: Toyo University Study Abroad

Leah Hackaday Start Date: Jan 8, 2023 - End Date: Mar 18, 2023
  • Tokyo, Japan

My Travel Story

by: Leah Hackaday Start Date: Jan 8, 2023 - End Date: Mar 18, 2023
Hello everyone! Most of you probably already know me, but my name is Leah Hackaday, and I’m currently a junior at Kennesaw State, majoring in International Affairs and minoring in Japanese.

I have been given the opportunity to study abroad in Japan at Toyo University through ISEP (International Student Exchange Program) from this upcoming March to August 2023. This has been a major goal of mine since I began studying Japanese in high school. While at Toyo University, I plan to take primarily Japanese language classes to complete my minor, as learning a language is much more challenging when you do not have the opportunity to speak it.

Ever since I was young, I’ve been interested in other countries and specifically in Japan’s pop culture, history, and overall culture. When I was lucky enough to take a two-week trip to Japan in my junior year of high school, I had no intention of studying the language in the future. However, by the time I returned home, I was searching for a language tutor and researching internationally-centered careers. I loved being immersed in the culture and learning about a different country so much that I had to pursue it further.

After graduating, I aim to leverage the experience I will gain living in Japan and studying the language to pursue work in a multinational corporation or in one of the US executive agencies where I can work with or in other countries. It is often too easy to become entirely centered on your part of the world and your understanding of things. Actively engaging with people from other areas and seeking knowledge about how other countries function can broaden one’s view of how the world works. This is exactly what I hope to use the things I have learned to do and promote in my future career field.

Unfortunately, the cost of rent and other expenses have turned out to be more than expected. Although my tuition is covered through the Zell Miller scholarship, I have not received any other scholarships, and I currently do not have enough to securely fund this goal of mine. Any amount you are able to donate would help and be greatly appreciated. Even if you cannot donate, I would be very grateful for any thoughts or prayers for my safety and success during this study abroad.
  • Tokyo, Japan

Adventure Registry

  • Personal + Family Savings

    7,000
    Myself and Parents
    • Granted