Hirodai Ambassador Activity Report
3rd year, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences Nana Okuno
[Study abroad destination]University of Hawaii Community College (America)
[Study abroad period] August 2023 to January 8.
[Type of study abroad] Long-term study abroad at a partner university
I am studying abroad at the University of Hawaii Community College Kapiolani in Oahu, Hawaii, United States from August 2022, 8 using the partner school system. In this study abroad newsletter, I will report on the cultural differences between Japan and Hawaii that I experienced while there, as well as my memories of Halloween.
1. Differences between Japanese and Hawaiian cultures as seen on site
The biggest difference between Japanese and Hawaiian cultures and ways of thinking is tolerance. For example, from the perspective of working style, employees are free to choose their hair color, style, and nails, and they can be seen eating sweets and using their smartphones while working. At first I was very surprised at how loose the regulations were, but people were going about their normal business and I didn't feel uncomfortable. I realized that school rules and work regulations are very strict in Japan, and I felt like I was able to understand why the inconvenience caused by these rules is often cited as a problem.
I also felt that the local people were not interested in other people in a good way. Of course, one of the reasons is that we dress boldly, but no one restricts their actions or becomes passive because of what other people think of them. During class, students always ask their teachers any questions they have and actively express their opinions. I also felt that this is something I would like to learn from.
Another cultural difference that I found interesting was in obtaining a driver's license and driving etiquette. The cost to obtain a driver's license in Hawaii is approximately $20, and there is no need to attend a driving school to acquire driving skills. You can obtain a license by learning techniques from your parents or acquaintances and passing a written test. I felt that the time and cost required to obtain a driver's license in Japan is very different.
When I compared driving manners with Hirosaki residents, I felt that while their driving was about the same level of roughness, Hawaiians had an overwhelmingly higher rate of stopping at crosswalks. If you just walk in front of a crosswalk, you will be stopped and asked to continue ahead. I found this difference very interesting.
2.Halloween Memories
As a Halloween event, I attended a Halloween party at a church with my host family. At the church, residents dressed in costumes decorated the trunks of their cars and handed out candy to visiting children. Regardless of age, everyone enjoyed dressing up in full costume and it was very interesting.
Additionally, parties at the church are held where each family brings their own food. What was particularly interesting was that each family brought their own chili, a dish made with beans and ground meat. The ingredients were slightly different, and it was interesting to be able to enjoy the flavors of each family. I also had the opportunity to talk with local residents, which was a valuable experience.
