Comments from Alumni | HIF Japanese Language and Japanese Culture Program

2024 Participants

Laila Burke-Graves

University of Michigan

Be comfortable with being uncomfortable. Studying abroad in a different country can no doubt be an intimidating experience, however, be open to new experiences and the unfamiliar. You will make incredible memories and relationships if you keep an open mind, be bold, and put yourself out there.

Alan Hoang

University of Washington

I came to HIF with the goal of improving my Japanese while learning about Japanese culture, and I certainly achieved that and so much more. From things like doing fun activities with my host family, participating in culture classes and interacting with Japanese university students, I truly felt like I was a part of the Hakodate community. Even during times where I was struggling, I had the support of teachers, staff, and peers so I never felt alone during my time at HIF. Outside of class, go out and explore Hakodate! The city has many beautiful natural attractions to go along with delicious food everywhere. In the end, I am glad to say I participated in this wonderful program.

Darwin Restrepo De La Cruz

Yale University

I walked away from HIF with confidence in my Japanese speaking ability, but more than that, love for the city of Hakodate. Spend time learning Hakodate-ben and steeping in the company of your friends and host family you'll have for 8 weeks. You'll create beautiful memories and your Japanese will skyrocket.

Justin Su

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

If you're considering between HIF and another study abroad programs, wonder no longer. Between the staff, teachers, community, and the wonderful town of Hakodate, HIF will give you a great opportunity for rapid growth in not only Japanese, but your communication skills in general. In my experience, HIF provided a welcoming environment that helped facilitate deep connections between my classmates as well as my host family. These 8 weeks were the time of my life, and I am eternally grateful that I was able to meet all the wonderful people that were part of this program.

More Comments

Name:

John Geitner

University:

University of
Notre Dame

The HIF program was super fun and a great learning opportunity! Getting to meet so many new people who all share the same goal of ...
Name:

Marcella Houston

University:

University of
Michigan

There are lots of different ways to enjoy your study abroad and they're all valid! Lots of students choose to travel lots or visit lots of attractions ...
Name:

Helen Liu

University:

University of
Pennsylvania

HIF is extremely rewarding and truly a once-in-a-lifetime chance. I think it's easier to be integrated into a host family as a younger college student ...
Name:

Nicole Lu

University:

Emory University

I loved the HIF program! I was able to learn so much - not only the Japanese language but also the culture and background of people ...
Name:

Kaitlyn Milleret

University:

University of
Notre Dame

I'm very grateful I got the opportunity to stay in Hakodate since it's such an underrated part of Japan. My favorite part was visiting landmarks like ...
Name:

Sofia Pan Xian

University:

University of
Michigan

If you feel you are struggling to speak, this program will make sure you go back feeling confident. You'll be only speaking Japanese - during class ...
Name:

Julian Schempf

University:

University of
Kansas

It might be difficult, but you will have the experience of a lifetime, something you will cherish for years to come.