OUSSEP

Being an OUSSEP student has been meaningful to me for many different reasons. Some of my personal highlights include being part of the host family programme. This has challenged me linguistically, as I have been paired with a family that speaks very little English, so I am constantly encouraged to practise Japanese. It has also been interesting to experience Japanese family dynamics at home. Being surrounded by international students from around the world, I am exposed to a wide range of perspectives, which keeps things engaging as I can consider, express, and challenge my own views. Lastly, exploring Japan through the OUSSEP programme allows me to learn about Japanese culture in class and experience it firsthand while travelling. (Full-year student from England, 2025–2026)

As an OUSSEP student, I have had a great time in Osaka and at the University of Osaka, making many new friends while gaining new perspectives. Through activities such as the Multilingual Café and the Tandem Program, I was able to interact with people from different cultural and academic backgrounds, which helped me question my assumptions and broaden my thinking. The program also gave me space to reflect on my personal goals and the kind of future I want to build. I believe this experience became so meaningful because I pursued what I enjoy while also stepping out of my comfort zone. (Full-year student from Germany, 2025–2026)