Lei Chen | UCB Study Abroad

"When you experience life in a foreign country, you learn something new from them."

What led you to study abroad? Why did you choose your country/program?

My motivation to study abroad is to experience different cultures. Since I am minor in Japanese Studies, I think it is great opportunity to study in Japan and learn how Japanese think of their own country. I choose IARU program because I could meet other students from top universities around the world to learn from each other. I choose the Global Internship Program since it combines both experience of study and internship.

What was the most interesting cultural experience you had abroad?

I think the most interesting cultural experience is learn customs in that country. Before I went to Japan, I ate Unagi Rice Bento in a normal way. However, after watching how Japanese people eating and talking with them, I find there are 3 ways to eat the Unagi Rice Bento. So, when you experience the life in a foreign country, you could correct the stereotype of thinking of them, while learn something new from them.

What was the biggest challenge/concern of your study abroad experience? How did you respond?

When I was in Japan, the biggest challenge for me is the language. I try to get over them by taking elementary language course during the program. Then I tried to mix my poor Japanese and English together, to communicate with them, such as asking for direction and ordering food.

Describe a typical day for you abroad.

In Singapore, I usually get up at 8 in the morning. Taking transit to my workplace. At around 12, I would went for lunch with my colleagues. I would finish my work at around 6 and went shopping with friends in the evening. The transportation system in Singapore is really convenient for you to go anywhere.

What coursework did you take while abroad? How did courses abroad compare with Berkeley classes?

I took a course about the history and society in Singapore. I took Japanese language course and a political economy course while in Japan. I think the course abroad is less intensive when compared with Berkeley's.

What was the most memorable/meaningful aspect of your time abroad?

I think the most memorable aspect when abroad is that you would make a lot of friends. For example, in IARU program, I would go with other program participants to nearby Area around Tokyo during the weekend. So you would not feel lonely or uncomfortable when abroad.

What impact did studying abroad have on you personally?

I think I become more confident after studying abroad.

What would you recommend to students considering studying abroad, especially to your country or program?

I would recommend other potential students to both program since they are both great! I would recommend Global internship Program for those who want to have some practical work experience. As for those who want to do research or want to be participate in academic debate, I would recommend the IARU program.