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Have you ever participated in a cultural exchange program? What was your experience like?

Nikhil Marchent

Yes, I have participated in a cultural exchange program before and it was one of the best experiences of my life. I was lucky enough to be selected for a program that sent me to Japan for three months to study the language, the culture, and to live with a host family.

It was really incredible to be able to experience a completely different way of life. I was completely immersed in a different language and culture, and it really opened my eyes to how much there is to see and learn outside of my home country.

Living with a host family was easily the best part of the program. My host family was so welcoming and kind, and they really helped me to feel comfortable and get adjusted to my new surroundings. They taught me so much about Japanese culture and customs, and I was able to try so many different types of food and activities that I never would have experienced otherwise.

One of my favorite memories was attending my host sister's graduation ceremony. It was such a beautiful and emotional event, and I was able to see firsthand how important education is in Japan. I also had the opportunity to participate in a traditional tea ceremony, visit a sumo stable, and attend a fireworks festival - all things I never could have done without being part of the exchange program.

Of course, there were also challenges. Language was definitely the biggest barrier. Although I had studied Japanese before going, it was still difficult to communicate effectively with others. However, I found that people were always patient and understanding, and it was a great opportunity to improve my language skills.

Overall, I would definitely recommend participating in a cultural exchange program to anyone who has the opportunity. It's an amazing way to broaden your horizons, learn about new cultures, and gain a new perspective on the world. I hope that I'll have the opportunity to participate in another exchange program in the future!