Studying Abroad: Key Differences Between the U.S. and Japanese Education
Studying Abroad: Key Differences Between the U.S. and Japanese Education Systems
Hello! This is Maegami from the blog “Megami no Maegami.” Today, I’d like to continue my series on education in America and share my personal study abroad experience.
I truly recommend you to study abroad!
In this article, I’ll explain the major differences between American and Japanese education systems, the true value of studying abroad, and why—despite uncertainties after COVID—I strongly encourage studying overseas.
Major Differences Between U.S. and Japanese Education
One of the biggest differences is flexibility.
- In the U.S., students typically spend their first two years taking general education courses before choosing a major.
- In Japan, once you choose your major, it’s almost impossible to change without transferring universities.
Another striking difference is the emphasis on critical thinking in the U.S. Rather than simply memorizing facts or giving “yes” answers, students are encouraged to think logically, question ideas, and express opinions. By contrast, Japanese classrooms often value harmony and agreement over debate.
What Is Critical Thinking?
Critical thinking means analyzing, questioning, and forming opinions based on evidence. This skill is central to American education, and it trains students to approach problems from multiple perspectives.
Learning In English, Not Just Learning English
Studying abroad in the U.S. means more than learning the language—it’s about learning in English. Classes, assignments, and discussions are all in English. This immersion naturally develops an “English-thinking brain” while also deepening cultural understanding and expanding global perspectives.
For me, the journey started with a high school trip to the UK, where I first discovered the beauty of living overseas. Later, my university years in the U.S. reinforced the true value of international education.
Why Study in New York?
New York City offers a unique educational environment compared to other regions.
- It attracts world-class educators and students across diverse fields.
- The academic standard is among the highest in the U.S.—and even the world.
- Beyond the classroom, opportunities for networking, internships, and real-world application are unmatched.
Graduating in New York doesn’t just mean holding a degree; it means being prepared to thrive in a global career.
Conclusion
In this post, I shared my thoughts on the differences between U.S. and Japanese education, as well as the benefits of studying abroad in New York.
On this blog, I also introduce schools like CUNY (City University of New York), which are excellent options for international students. If you’re considering studying in New York, I recommend checking out my other articles for practical tips and inspiration!
