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Studying abroad is an enriching and life-changing experience that only some have the opportunity to pursue. Many students dream of studying in a foreign country, but the financial burden often makes this goal seem unattainable. That's where sponsorship for studying abroad can come in and make a huge difference – like it did for me.

First and foremost, I would like to express my gratitude to Tohoku University, which made my study abroad experience possible. Without its generous support, I would not have been able to fulfil my dream of studying in Japan, immersing myself in a new culture, and broadening my horizons. Furthermore, its investment in my education contributed to my personal growth and will continue to contribute to my future professional endeavours. I am immensely grateful. 

Studying in Japan taught me so much about myself and the world around me. It helped me develop a global perspective, enhance my language skills (both English and Japanese), and deepen my appreciation for cultural differences. Through this experience, I learned to be more adaptable, independent, and resilient, skills that will benefit me in all aspects of my life. My university friends and I went through many different things together. We helped each other, studied together, and made a lot of good memories. 

The classes I took were exciting and have inspired me to get a master’s degree in education in the future. Professor Jing Lui’s class, ‘Introduction to International Education and Development’ was particularly influential. I wish I could take a class like that on an even deeper level in Ukraine! 

Studying abroad allowed me to build meaningful relationships with people from all over the world. The friendships and connections I made will last a lifetime, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have met such incredible individuals. Studying at Tohoku University also taught me an important lesson – we all have our differences, but that is not an obstacle to making friends. In my program, we all came from different cultural backgrounds, but I had never felt such a strong sense of unity and group spirit as I felt with IPLA students and Japanese IPLA leaders.

Finally, I am grateful for the ways I grew personally through my study abroad journey. This experience challenged me to step out of my comfort zone, take risks, and be more confident in myself and my abilities. It also helped me to identify my values, priorities, and goals and has given me the motivation and inspiration to pursue them. Thanks to my classes, I realized that I want to pursue a career in education.

In conclusion, I am grateful for Tohoku University’s sponsorship. It made my study abroad experience possible. This life-changing journey enriched my life in many ways. For now, as a student, and in the future as a teacher, I will carry the lessons I have learned and the memories I have made for the rest of my life, applying and sharing them within the Ukrainian education system. I fully believe that I will come to Japan again. Its culture, people, and spirit are unforgettable.