I went to Nagoya, Japan for 5 months from March to August 2024. Some of the highlights of my everyday life in Japan were just the small, everyday interactions and routines. Living with my host family was one of the most valuable parts of the exchange. At first, I was nervous and cautious, unsure of what to expect or how to fit in with them. But as time went on, I became more comfortable, and my relationship with my host family really grew. I felt truly part of their lives, from cooking and eating dinner together to joining family outings and conversations about our days.
One of my favourite things I did with my host family was after dinner we would sit and talk at the dinner table for hours and I loved learning about their lives and experiences, and we would compare life between New Zealand and Japan. I also enjoyed going shopping with my host mother and she would let me pick out things I had never tried and wanted to. These experiences made me feel like I belonged, and I began to see them as a second family. 
Attending school in Japan was also unique and rewarding. I got involved in clubs, which helped me make friends and understand more about Japanese culture. I was in the Tea Ceremony Club and the Calligraphy Club. I really liked these clubs because I learnt a lot about Japanese Culture , but I also had lots of time to talk to other people in the club, so I made great friends. It was amazing to learn alongside my peers and to experience the discipline and focus that’s central to Japanese schooling. I spent most of my time in class learning Japanese or trying to follow the lesson.
For future AFS students, I’d say to keep an open mind and be patient, both with yourself and the people around you. Building relationships and adapting to new customs takes time, but the effort is worth it. Specifically, for students coming to Japan, I’d recommend learning some basic Japanese before arriving and being willing to immerse yourself in the customs — it’s a culture that values respect and patience, so showing that will help you settle in and make the most of your time there. I would say you are much braver than you think you are, when I look back on the things I did I’m amazed at my confidence. 
Next year I’m studying Aviation at Massey University. My exchange experience in Japan played a big role in this path, as it taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of global connections, all of which are crucial in the field of aviation. My exchange gave me the confidence to know I can live away from my family for a long period of time. Overall my time in Japan gave me the confidence to tackle the rigorous training and challenges in aviation, and it continues to inspire my goals for the future.