This was one of the important messages from members of PHILAJAMES-Cebu (Philippine Association of former Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology Scholars) to more than 30 graduating students of the University of the Philippines Cebu last April 11.
Through the kind coordination of Annabelle Maglasang and Cipriano Olita, with the assistance of Ellen Grace Funesto, the former scholars to Japan who are active or retired faculty members of UP Cebu shared their experiences in Japan.
Aside from job options offered by other resource persons, Drs. Weena Gera, Robert Roxas, and Aiza Cortes joined me in encouraging the UP graduating students to consider applying for scholarships offered by the Japanese Embassy. Dr. Jonnie Sinogaya later joined the group for the scholarship promotion. Drs. Richelita Galapate and Lao did not join the UP PHilajames-Cebu team due to previous engagements.
The deadline for application for certain scholarships to Japan is this May. Those who are interested to know more details can visit the website of the Embassy of Japan Philippines and click the Culture and Education section. We, the former scholars, agreed that the Japan experience changed our lives positively. We completed our studies and earned our doctoral degrees, and our long stay there (3-5 years) taught us so much about Japan, the world, and ourselves.
Being exposed to a country different from ours, with a language one must struggle to learn, with traditions and culture deeply imbedded across generations, scholars journeyed through mixed emotions and experiences throughout their stay in Japan.
Initially, we experienced the feeling of a deaf-mute, as a newcomer unable to speak and understand the Japanese language. There was the initial brief period of loneliness, especially upon returning to one’s room, alone and feeling isolated from family and friends. Every scholar may have gone through crying sessions within the first six months of their stay in Japan.
With more knowledge of Nihongo, more friends among Japanese and foreign classmates, and more time to learn and research about one’s academic specialization, the Japanese experiences turned positive and unforgettable.
Upon their return to the Philippines, scholars join the academe or work in business and industry, with many, if not all, attaining high positions within their fields. Others opted to proceed from Japan to other countries, joining the academe or private sector. Those who have successfully mastered Nihongo have the competitive advantage of being among those in high demand globally.
You may like to consider being a student or a researcher in Japan as an option after graduation. Aside from the official Ministry or Monbukagakushoo scholarships, a number of Japanese universities under the Global Education Program are also offering English programs for foreign students. Search the net for a list of Japanese universities offering English programs and scholarships if interested. Or you can send your inquiries through FB to Philajames-Cebu.
If you need to know more about Japan, you may also join Bon Odori that will be held at the J Center Mall on April 28 and 29. The Bon Festival is a Japanese tradition of remembering the departed members of their family, usually celebrated in August.
For this month's Japanese summer festival, expect performances (enka, dance, karate, and kendo), contests (karaoke, yukata, cosplay), shows (Cessna flight, ninja, comedian, rice pounding, candy shower, fire dance) and others, like raffles, fireworks and more!
For more information about Bon Odori, call 032-231-4433. This Festival's several sponsors include the Embassy of Japan, Japan Foundation, Cebu province, Japanese and Filipino companies and partners.