Finding Tomodachi in Kyoto

Written by Holdyn Farrell, FA26 OCBII

When coming to Japan, one of the things I was most excited about was the opportunity to
make new friends. To make friends with fellow students in my program, but also with local
young adults. But making friends in a place where you speak the language poorly and are
unfamiliar with standard customs can cause obstacles.
 

That is where CIEE comes in. Recently I had an amazing opportunity to spend a day at
Otani University, a local university in the heart of Kyoto. This was one of the many incredible
experiences CIEE offers, and I am over the moon that I chose it.

Through the Tomodachi Project (otherwise known as the Friend Project), I was able to
connect with students my age and visit their university. The university itself was incredible.
From the pristine hallways to the delicious cafeteria food, it did not disappoint. I was amazed at
how focused the students were as we passed them in the hallways. None of them turned to see
what was causing such a ruckus, and instead they stayed diligent to their studies. The
concentration the students displayed is unlike anything I have ever seen at my home university.

While touring the school, a small group of students from my program were guided by two
students of Otani University, Runa and Hinata. The girls were best friends and were amazingly
funny and kind guides as they showed us around. They even graciously helped us order at the
cafeteria kiosks, giving us their recommendations and advice. At lunch, we were able to ask
them a large array of questions, and they were able to do the same. My favorite part of talking to
them was learning Japanese slang!

After we finished lunch, we were all ushered to a classroom within the university where
both CIEE personnel and an instructor from Otani distributed games that would aid the process
of getting to know one another. During this time I met several Otani students, all of whom were
absolutely delightful to speak with. I remember clearly how funny the students found it when I
used my newly learned slang. This led to two students, Suka and Moka, requesting to learn
American slang. I especially appreciated hearing them say “bruh.”

This experience has been the most meaningful in my time in Japan, and I believe that it
will be incredibly hard to beat. The excitement between both American and Japanese students
was contagious, and I found myself smiling the entire time. Without the Tomodachi project, I
doubt I would have connected with any Japanese locals. It is nerve wracking, reaching out to
people who are so different from those you are used to, and through experiences like these it
makes it all the easier. It has given me the confidence to compliment local young adults, and it
has made an impact on me that I have thought about every day since.