3 mistakes you should never do in Japan
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Thinking back, I’ve been haunted by some of my past mistakes I made in Japan in the beginning of my study period on the MEXT scholarship. Honestly, it is easier to make a big long list of mistakes and weird things I’ve done or said than to compile a list of the good things I’m proud of. Nevertheless, each experience was in itself interesting and I’ve learned something from it. So here I go, out of my experience, 3 things you should never do in Japan.
No. 1: Don’t forget to bring a souvenir
If you come to Japan for study, you should for sure bring a small souvenir, especially for your supervisor, and if possible, some sweets for the other professors or colleagues you’ll interact with. In Japan, image and first impression are essential. So make a good impression from the start and things will go smoothly for you!
No. 2: Don’t embarrass your supervisor in front of others
Never embarrass your supervisor in front of other professors. Your supervisor in Japan takes a lot of responsibility on your behalf. Not only this, but they also take responsibility for things you say or do while under their care. If you do anything that taints their reputation, it’s not good. You should strive to be the best student so your supervisor can be proud of you and happily say to the other professors “This is my student! Let me introduce him/ her to you.”
No. 3: Don’t be rude to other professors
The topic for the class was a long awaited symposium where students all over the world would come and give a 20 minute speech about their research. I was also interested in participating. Everything was perfect until I started an argument with the dean and told him angrily that 20 minutes is not enough for me, I really wanted one hour to present my research.
Well, I was very lucky the dean was not only a kind person who didn’t hold grudges, but he also probably found some humor in this event. He was always kind to me and always helped me throughout my study in Japan. I was really happy he didn’t take me seriously. Besides, it was my first official presentation in Japan and I didn’t know how things worked, I actually didn’t know that each student had a 20 minutes slot, otherwise it would take forever and probably everybody would get bored.
Conclusions
What I’ve learned from these experiences is easy and straightforward and I believe it can be applied in everyday life in Japan or anywhere in the world:
– Always be modest in Japan, especially if you are on a MEXT scholarship
– Don’t embarrass your supervisor or professors in front of fellow professors or other students
– Always think before you speak, don’t complain, and try to find something positive in each situation
– Pay attention to details, to how events unfold and if you really have something to add, make sure you say it in a way which doesn’t offend others
Well, I believe we all make mistakes. If you ever did something you’re feeling bad or ashamed about, don’t be too harsh on yourself. Draw your conclusion and let it pass. Nobody’s perfect and you can do better next time.
I hope you find this useful. Also you can read here about 3 of my experiences in Japan that I’m really proud of.
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