 Name: Ayako Shibata
Nationality: Japanese
Country of Residence: Japan
Age: 19
Profession: Student
Educational Background:
2 years study at Dokkyo University
Languages Spoken:
Japanese, German, English
Hobbies and Interests: Listening to music, volleyball
Is this your first time in Germany?
Actually it’s my second time to Germany. I visited Germany in 2002 with my family.
How do you like Heidelberg?
Everything is wonderful, because there are so many historical buildings here and the town is so beautiful. The local people are also very friendly.
How are you finding your studies?
I think my studies here are really helping me a lot to improve my German skills, especially my listening skills. My teacher tries her best to use very clear and simple German in class, so I can understand almost everything she says.
How did you find the relationship between students and between students and teachers?
I think that all students in my school are very friendly and outgoing, so it takes no time to make friends here. Concerning the relationship between students and teachers, I really like that students feel comfortable enough to ask our teachers any question at all. The educational environment is perfect!
What is the most interesting thing you have done or discovered in Heidelberg?
In Heidelberg, people are allowed to enter shops with their pets, which was quite a surprise for me. And even more surprising for me was that the pets are very quiet, which I understood to mean that Germans take the full responsibility for raising their pets.
Are there any really interesting shops, museums, cinemas, markets, restaurants, pubs or nightclubs that you have been to?
There are some very nice nightclubs, especially a club called Café Bistro. The staff there are very kind and the music is cool.
What were the major (cultural, social or educational) differences from your home country that you experienced when you first arrived in Heidelberg (and maybe still find yourself struggling with)?
For Japanese people it is very important to take a hot bath in the evening. When I arrived here in Germany, I was really alarmed when I saw that there is only a shower in the dormitory’s bathroom.
What advice / tips would you give others who plan to come to Heidelberg?
My best tip is: please take advantage of your time here in Heidelberg. There are so many interesting things and places to discover. I just wish I had more time here!
Do you think you will come back to Heidelberg / Germany?
Yes, for sure! I would love to spend more time in Germany in the future. My dream is to work someday in Germany. |
2006 Summer
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