Meet Issa Kachenje, originally from Tanzania, who came to Japan through a special international scholarship program and later built a full academic journey here. For Issa, choosing to study in Japan wasn’t only about rankings or research—it was also about personal growth. Japan represented a culture of humility and discipline, and Issa wanted to grow in an environment where excellence and modesty can exist at the same time.
This interview is helpful for anyone searching how to study abroad in Japan, looking into studying abroad programs in Japan, or wondering what kind of mindset and preparation makes studying in Japan truly worth it.
1. What made you want to study in Japan, rather than your home country?
What drew me to Japan wasn’t only academic excellence, but also the cultural value of modesty and humility. In many societies, success can come with arrogance, and I became aware of a personal fear—that as I grew academically and professionally, I might unintentionally grow arrogant too. I didn’t want that.
Japan offered the kind of environment I was looking for. I admired how Japanese people can be highly skilled and accomplished, but still humble and grounded. That balance between excellence and humility was something I wanted to learn, not only as a student, but as a person.
So for me, choosing Japan wasn’t just an academic decision. It was also a deliberate step toward shaping my character. I wanted to grow in a place that constantly reminds you that true strength is not only what you achieve, but how you carry yourself while achieving it.
2. How did you go about finding a place to study in Japan?
I consider myself very fortunate, because my journey to studying in Japan wasn’t something I had to search for actively. It was an opportunity that came to me at the right time. After becoming one of the top students at Sokoine University of Agriculture in Tanzania for two consecutive semesters, I was automatically selected for a special international program in Japan.
The university administration provided detailed information about the opportunity, the scholarship, the university I would attend, and the overall structure of the program. So rather than going through a long and uncertain application process, my role was to carefully review the offer and make a decision. Looking back, I truly feel I was lucky.
3. How did you feel, once you had found a place to study?
Once I had found a place to study, I felt a mix of emotions. After learning more about Japanese people, the education system, and the institution I would be joining, I felt excited—but also a little worried.
In many ways, it was a leap of faith. I was still young, and I was about to move to a completely different country with a different culture and way of life. There was uncertainty, but also a strong sense of anticipation.
I accepted the opportunity not only because of the academic benefits, but because I saw it as a chance to grow personally and experience a completely different environment. That combination of excitement, curiosity, and a bit of fear made the decision even more meaningful.
4. What were difficulties you encountered? How did you overcome them?
One of the main difficulties was adapting to a completely new environment. The language barrier was one of the biggest challenges at the beginning. Even simple daily interactions—shopping, visiting the hospital, or completing administrative procedures—required effort and patience. The academic system also felt different from what I was used to, so I had to adjust my study methods.
Cultural differences were another challenge. Japanese society values indirect communication, humility, and harmony, which was different from my background. At first, I sometimes found it difficult to express myself appropriately or fully understand others’ intentions. There were also moments of loneliness, especially early on, being far from family and familiar surroundings.
I overcame these difficulties through persistence and openness. I made a conscious effort to improve my Japanese by practicing every day, even in small situations. I observed how people communicate and behave, and gradually adapted to those cultural norms. Building relationships with classmates, professors, and local people also helped me feel supported.
Most importantly, I reminded myself why I chose Japan. Instead of seeing challenges as obstacles, I tried to see them as opportunities to grow. Over time, what felt difficult became part of daily life, and I gained confidence and independence.
5. What were the best things about studying in Japan?
One of the best things was the quality of the academic environment. I was surrounded by dedicated professors and highly motivated students, and that pushed me to raise my own standards. The education system emphasizes discipline, attention to detail, and consistency, and those values shaped the way I approach work.
Another important benefit was personal growth. Living in a different country forced me to become more independent, adaptable, and open-minded. Daily life became part of the education, not just the classroom.
I also appreciated the culture of respect and humility in Japan. Seeing people who are highly skilled and knowledgeable but still modest and considerate influenced my character and how I interact with others.
Finally, studying in Japan gave me the chance to build meaningful connections with people from different backgrounds. Those relationships and experiences have had a lasting impact on my life.
6. How did studying in Japan prepare you for your current life?
Studying in Japan prepared me in several ways. First, it taught me discipline and consistency. The academic environment requires planning, attention to detail, and responsibility. Those habits stayed with me and still influence how I approach research and professional work today.
Second, it developed adaptability. Living in a different cultural environment pushed me out of my comfort zone. I learned how to handle uncertainty, communicate across cultures, and adjust quickly—skills that are valuable in any global career.
It also strengthened my communication skills. Navigating a different language and culture made me more patient, observant, and thoughtful in how I express myself.
Finally, it shaped my mindset. Being in a culture that values humility, respect, and continuous improvement helped me stay grounded while striving for excellence. It reminded me that success is not only about achievements, but also about character.
7. What are some recommendations you would give to someone who wants to study in Japan? What do you think they should know?
I would encourage anyone who wants to study in Japan to see it as both an academic opportunity and a personal journey. Japan offers a rich learning environment, but it also requires preparation and the right mindset.
First, learn some basic Japanese before coming. Even if your program is in English, daily life often requires Japanese, and knowing simple expressions can make you feel much more independent.
Second, understand the academic culture. Japan values discipline, punctuality, and attention to detail. Students are expected to be responsible and consistent, and respect toward professors and instructions matters a lot.
Third, be open-minded and patient. Communication can be indirect, and cultural differences can feel challenging at first. But if you observe, learn, and adapt instead of resisting it, the experience becomes much more rewarding.
8. What are some final thoughts you might have regarding the experience of studying in Japan?
I would say: don’t be afraid of the unknown. Studying abroad—especially in Japan—can feel like a leap of faith. There will be difficult moments, but those moments are also where the most growth happens.
If you stay committed, patient, and curious, the experience can be life-changing.
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