Rachel Wood

Kansai Gaidai University – Osaka, Japan (fall 2014)

今 日は！My name is Rachel Wood, and I am a senior studying International Studies with a minor in Political Science. I spent the fall of 2014 studying abroad at Kansai Gaidai University in Osaka, Japan. After squeezing into a packed train to Dotonbori, getting chased by deer in Nara, walking up Otowasan to Kiyomizudera, riding the bullet train to Hiroshima, and watching the sunset in Miyajima; I can confidently report that the most remarkable thing about Japan is its people. I have experienced the profound kindness of the Japanese in many ways; having my wallet returned in-tact, being forgiven for losing several train tickets and having numerous strangers walk me to my destination when I was lost. I have returned as a better, more sincere person. The four months I spent in Osaka changed my life, and gave me new understanding of the person I am and the impact I want to have on the world. I hope every student, regardless of major or financial situation, has the opportunity to study abroad.  As a Global Roadrunner I am dedicated to making sure any student that wants to take their education internationally has that chance. I want every Ramapo student to take the opportunity of going to a foreign country in order to have a transformative experience!