Hi there! My name is Jennie Bull, and I am a rising senior studying Marketing and Retail Management with a concentration in Fashion and Beauty Communications. I am currently abroad in Tokyo, Japan taking language and culture courses. As a business major, interested in the intersection of fashion and emerging technologies, Japan was the perfect option for me. Tokyo is a constant explosion of creativity and innovation, and I am so grateful to be here!
Not only am I taking courses here at Waseda University, I also recently started as an Editorial Intern for the Tokyo-based alternative culture and fashion publication, GATA Magazine. Here, I have been able to expand my interests in digital communications and art direction, under the mentorship of inspiring creatives.
Initially, I was nervous to come to Japan, mostly because I didn’t know Japanese, but also because very few people from Syracuse do this program. However, I couldn’t be happier with my decision. Knowing very few people beforehand, I was forced to step out of my comfort zone; through my university, internship, and experiences, I met so many people from all over the world that have made my abroad journey.
Additionally, even though my language skills were very minimal, I have thoroughly enjoyed learning Japanese and connecting with locals, everyone has been so lovely and helpful, making me feel very welcome in such a foreign environment.
It has truly been an honor to be exposed to the way of life here and witness firsthand the respect and pride that the Japanese public has for their country. The systems put in place are extremely efficient, it almost feels as though I am living in the future! Because of the phenomenal transportation here, I have been lucky enough to travel through various prefectures and explore the rich culture that Japan has to offer.
Beyond the bustling city life, Japan is full of beautiful nature and quaint towns full of personality. I will never forget the people I’ve met, the things I’ve experienced, and the places I’ve been to during my time in Japan, I will cherish these memories forever.
Studying abroad has opened my eyes up to the possibility of working internationally after graduation. I have grown to love exploring different cultures and environments, meeting people from all walks of life. This world has so much to offer, and I never want to limit myself; after living in Japan for 5 months I have garnered such an appreciation for the little things, the things that make us uniquely human.
I have learned so much about myself and have witnessed immense growth not just internally, but in the ways that I present myself as a global citizen. My time here has given me a whole new perspective on life, and I can’t wait to see where the next phase of this journey takes me!
Jennie Bull ’24
Marketing & Retail Management
Waseda University Spring 2023