I (F18) am an upcoming freshman and I'm obviously starting to consider my life a little more, I've always sought after a different change in scenery from the United States (which may or may not be ignorant depending on who you ask!) and was originally going to study in the United Kingdom but was shot down by my mom, rightfully so since I'm unsure if I would've been ready for that change. However, I've had this dream of moving abroad even since I was in 6th grade, it's something I've been holding onto for a while, and I feel it's something that I'm certain in doing at some point in my life.
Naturally, the life of living in Japan was one that grazed my mind as I've been to Japan many times, sort of speak the language (I took AP Japanese and scored a 4 LOL) but I'm unsure if that's going to be enough to make me feel safe in the idea. I would say I'm sort of pretty(?) and on the thinner side but I am 178 cm which probably makes a huge difference since it seemed like people were scared of how tall (compared to a lot of people) I was LOL… So for that reason alone I believe I have had no issues with creeps so far, other than the occasional compliment and maybe some hardcore stares – granted we are always in Kyoto, if that makes any sort of difference – but I have ALSO always been with my dad or someone in my family accompanying me when I go out, and I know that visiting isn't the same as living. I've looked into it and it seems case by case based, but I wanted a little bit more input from women as to how their lives are in Japan and maybe even what areas I should look at, avoiding Tokyo as much as possible.
I don't plan to move for a few years, probably post masters and/or PhD, as I'd like to get comfortable with my degrees to hopefully improve my overall job opportunities and also save up some money. I am seeking to go into education as an English teacher if it matters, (basic I know) but it's something I actually want to do regardless of living in another country as it's my current major.
Please be honest with me, I don't mind having my fantasies crushed if it keeps me safe!
by pouwtie