Endeavor Endowment: Studying Abroad In Japan

Alis Cadena Start Date: Mar 13, 2024 - End Date: May 11, 2024
  • Kyoto, Japan
  • Nishinomiya, Hyogo, Japan
  • Tokyo, Japan
  • Osaka, Japan

My Travel Story

by: Alis Cadena Start Date: Mar 13, 2024 - End Date: May 11, 2024
Hello, Everyone! I will be studying abroad this summer in Japan– attending the faculty-led program of Asian Religions in Kyoto, specifically.

As I am climbing up the ladders of educational advancement, I find myself gaining knowledge of other religions and the importance of being courteous and open to the different religions that are spread throughout the world. I wish to open myself to new perspectives to stray away from ethnocentric views, and studying Asian Religions in Kyoto will not only allow me to learn about various religions, but it will also allow me to immerse myself in the Japanese culture and to realize the extent in which a religion can impact people of a different culture– a complete contrast of my own. Though it is something that can be understood and read about in the environment of a classroom and textbooks, there is a value that can be learned through participant observation in Kyoto that will travel past the stereotypical barriers and carry through with me past my years at Stetson and into my career.

After obtaining my Bachelor’s degree at Stetson and graduating from graduate school, I plan on going into the realm of politics. In doing so, I need to understand not only domestic affairs but foreign affairs as well. In addition to the Religions of China and Japan course being taught, there are tentative options for a second course that include options such as Contemporary Japanese and American Politics and Society and/or International Relations of East Asia. I am currently taking International relations - as per requirement for my major in Political Science - which will prove to be an invaluable asset that will assist me in furthering my knowledge of International politics in Kyoto.

This five-week program is a chance to utilize Stetson's resources and further my education that breaches beyond what can be taught in a classroom. What I learn in Kyoto, Japan, will not only assist me in my professional goals to work in the political realm, but it will also let me understand religions that I have yet to be conscious of outside my own. By giving me this opportunity to study abroad, I will further my personal development and carry what I learn in every decision that I make in every aspect of my life.

I'm grateful for anything you're willing to contribute, and thank you for taking the time to look at my campaign!
  • Kyoto, Japan
  • Nishinomiya, Hyogo, Japan
  • Tokyo, Japan
  • Osaka, Japan

More Travel Information

Adventure Registry

  • WORLD Scholarship

    2,000

  • Religious Dep. Scholarship

    1,000