My first months at Sussex have been full of new experiences. While I was walking in the fields behind campus yesterday, I saw real sheep for the first time. I came to the UK expecting it to be rainy every day, but actually it’s been quite sunny and warm.

Studying abroad has always been my dream, even though that’s quite unusual in Japan. Since primary school I’ve been interested in how people in other countries live, and in the daily obstacles they can face. So of course, international development is what I have chosen to study. One day, I hope to be able to work in this field in developing countries around the world.

I was deciding between universities in the US and the UK, but because Sussex has such a good reputation for development studies, it was the obvious choice. My parents were nervous about me moving so far away, but now they can see how hard I’ve been studying, so they think it was the right decision.

So far my course in international relations and international development has been excellent. It’s part of the International Year One programme in the International Study Centre, which means I’m taking extra modules in my first year to improve my English. It will lead directly into year two of a BA in international development next year.

I’m studying with people from all over the world, so I’m being exposed to a lot of different perspectives and opinions in my classes. Having the opportunity to work with such a diverse group is something I probably would have missed out on if I’d stayed in Japan for university.

Since arriving at Sussex not knowing anybody, I’ve made some good friends at the weekly Language Café, which has also helped me get better at speaking English, and the Students’ Union’s Buddy Scheme has helped me meet new people as well. Next year I’m planning to live in a homestay with a local family so that I can get a real experience of British culture.

Cooking is something I love to do – one of my favourite activities is going to the supermarket to find new ingredients to try out. This year will be my first UK Christmas, because I’m staying on campus over the holidays. I have a friend coming over and I’m going to cook traditional food like shepherd’s pie and roast chicken. I can’t wait to experience a real Brighton Christmas.