College of Science

ENSTU Student Studies Abroad in Japan 

Where did you study abroad? 

I studied abroad in Hirosaki, Japan at Hirosaki University (弘前大学). 

What was your favorite part of studying abroad? 

My favorite part was, of course, all the relationships I made and the awesome people I met, but also the research I did.

What type of classes did you take, and were any of the classes related to the types of classes you're taking in the ENSTU program? 

I am an ENSTU major here at CSUMB, and I took an independent research class. The class itself was not environmentally focused at all, but my teacher was super amazing and open-minded; he let me do a research project related to environmental work. I did a research project on sustainable agriculture and sustainable communities where I worked directly with different local farmers and wrote a long research paper. 

What did you gain from this experience and does this experience contribute to your career goals? 

I gained a whole new perspective on what agriculture is and why food is so important. It made me want a career in local, sustainable agriculture to provide food, opportunity, and community for people.

What are your future plans (career, academic, etc.)? 

In the future, I want to live in Japan and advocate for support, whether financial or otherwise, for local community farms. I think that having local farms is essential for communities and health, and I want to be the voice of the farmers. 

Any advice for fellow students interested in studying abroad? 

Well, I was able to make so many worldwide connections, lifelong friends and memories, learn so much and expect a whole new world. It really is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity where you can expand your horizons, learn so much about the world, and really find who you are. Anyone who can should take advantage of it

Congratulations on this opportunity, Eric!! We look forward to seeing where your professional and academic endeavors will take you!