When searching for study abroad programs, I was impressed by CIBS?s large selection of countries available. Like many others, I wanted to indulge in Japanese culture and visit a technological and modern hub. Tokyo was incredibly impressive. In pictures you see, you can?t really tell, but the city goes on for what seems like forever. The skyline is filled with tall buildings accompanied by bright and flashing LED signs. On every corner, you can find hundreds of claw machines filled with your favorite characters and snacks. The atmosphere is filled with companionship, laughter, and popular songs. I?ve noticed with every company visit that they never boast about earnings and make their presentations seem like sales pitches. Instead, Japanese companies are much more focused on the shared value of community and helping one another. The presentations so far have been about sustainability, DEI, and service. This shared value is particularly prominent when you are engaging with locals. You can feel the respect everyone has for one another just by walking alongside them in the streets. Additionally, the locals are very welcoming of foreigners and make an effort to engage and serve you the best they can, despite English not being their first language. All common spaces are very clean and well taken care of, which ties back to the respect people have for each other and their community. I hope to gain a new perspective and a changed outlook on life from this experience. Furthermore, I hope to create a network of connections in the technological space that I can leverage when I visit again and do business with this country. Although Japan is geographically far away from the United States and very different, studying here allows me to better understand the culture, society, and values that influence their decisions. I?m incredibly grateful to have this opportunity and highly recommend everyone to go to Japan!
