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samurai007 (Offline)
JF Old Timer
 
Posts: 890
Join Date: Oct 2007
03-02-2009, 07:26 AM

Quote:
Originally Posted by Nemhy View Post
After reading through 94 pages of this thread X.X I feel alot more edumicated. =D I have a few questions though:

1. I'm starting to actually look at my Japan travel dreams alot more seriously. If I take a 1year Japanese course study abroad program, am I allowed to work at all? if not how much money should I save up for food and stuff? (I was told food isnt provided)

2. When are the JLPT's and does it cost money to take them?

3. exactly how bad are the summers? I live in Northernish NJ and sometimes the heat can be kinda brutal. I have Asthma. Will it be a big problem for me? Like before my body adapts to the new climat. (spelling?)

4. How exactly do Study abroad programs work? I go to class then what? Will I have free time to explore and practise my communication and street smarts? (getting around, directions, metro system ect)

5. would a Bike be a good investment?
1) Only up to 4 hours a week, legally, and even that requires a special permit I believe, so don't count on paying for your expenses on that. I'd say you need to save at least $15,000 for the whole year, and that's if you watch your budget very carefully and live in an apartment that isn't too expensive.

2) No idea

3) Summers are extremely hot and humid in most of Japan. The further north you are, the less brutal the summers are, but the more brutal the winters become. I don't know how your asthma will react to 90 degrees and close to 100% humidity on some days, but you'll be dripping in sweat without even moving or exerting yourself.

4) You should have time whenever you aren't in class...

5) Yes, get one when you arrive in Japan. I used my bike a lot.


JET Program, 1996-98, Wakayama-ken, Hashimoto-shi

Link to pictures from my time in Japan
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