Hi guys! My name is Haruna Matsuoka, and I am from Japan. I am an international student at the Santa Rosa Junior College (SRJC), and this is my last semester as I am planning to transfer to one of the California State University (CSU) schools in California. In this blog, I would like to introduce my experience in the United States briefly and talk about my winter break!

Why Did I Choose to Come to SRJC?

I was born and raised in Japan, and I was a cross-country skier for 10 years. Since my prefecture is very famous for the quality of snow (powder snow) and there are a lot of ski areas, thousands of people from other countries visit my hometown, and I heard a lot of English since I was a child. So, I grew up in a great environment to improve my English skills, and I gradually liked to speak English.

As I mentioned, I was a cross-country skier, so I started curious about working in the athletic field. There was an event for students who are interested in studying abroad in the United States. Then, a lot of community colleges and 4-year universities joined in the events, so I could talk with lots of coordinators. At that time, I talked with a person from SRJC, and I could find the sports medicine program. That was the reason why I chose to come to SRJC. Today, I am studying in the program and learning human body and sports injuries.

My Winter Break in Japan!

It had been 2 years since I had seen my parents. I had not returned to my hometown since I enrolled at SRJC. I was very excited to see them. When I met my father at the airport, both of us started to cry. I had a great time with my family, pets, and friends. It had been 2 years since I skied!

I was so surprised because I had a “reverse culture shock.” For example, public roads and parking are so narrow in Japan! I get used to seeing big and wide roads in the United States. Also, the food portion is very small while in the U.S. it is really big! That was one of my memories of the winter break.

I visited Tokyo before I left Japan. I went to Asakusa, had really good sushi, and saw temples. I was so happy that anything does not change. I was very busy in the last fall semester so I could recharge my energy.

Looking forward

This is my last semester, and I will finish all courses in the SRJC. I am going to miss my second hometown but I am also excited to start my new chapter in a new school!

Haruna Matsuoka from Japan is studying sports medicine at Santa Rosa Junior College in California.