Jigme Dorji - B.A Eng Evs, 2013

Language-a representation of human experiences, our primary means of communicating about reality. So with a desire to explore and communicate with people from different cultures, I grabbed the opportunity provided by the Learn-and-Earn program in Bhutan, and decided to come to Japan looking for an opportunity to enhance my knowledge and skills by immersing in an a place with such advanced facilities and services as Japan. I studied Japanese language for one and a half years at Tokyo Institute of Japanese language (TIJ) placed by the agent in Bhutan.

Having stayed for more than a year and experiencing the different culture and working environment, bearing the financial expenses and studying at the same time became harder for me as time passed by. So, I decided to go home without completing my two-year term. My dreams of coming to Japan and doing something productive got stuck in between, and then Seisa, the University I came for an exchange program during my college days at Royal Thimphu College, brought a significant change in my life. Seisa helped me broaden my horizons and gave me a wonderful opportunity to continue towards the original aims I had while first coming to Japan.

Now, I work as an International Service Coordinator at Takao campus under Seisa. I am much more certain now that I will get to learn more, make friendships, and develop my skills and knowledge. Despite having faced a hard time during my initial period to Japan, my experiences have made me stronger today, and I am confident of being able to make it through most of the things I was scared of before.

There are many Bhutanese who are still here in Japan from the Learn-and-Earn program looking for better opportunities. I would like to say them to not let the roadblocks that comes your way stop you permanently in your journey. Japan is such a big country with millions of opportunities. Clear your road, pass the blocks and continue on your way to your destinations and dreams.

There is so much I want to thank and appreciate Seisa for, but I am not sure from where to begin. The day I started working with Seisa was among the happiest in my life. In the short time that I've come to know about Seisa and Japan, I have come to believe that nothing in life is impossible. I realized that I being away from home and experiencing different things and facing hardships makes you more human with bigger dreams. Finally, I want to share that I really wish for a continuing strong relationship between Bhutan and Japan.