“This experience taught me how adaptable I am in unfamiliar environments and how open I am to learning from others. Navigating new cities, language barriers and different cultural expectations showed me the value of humility, curiosity and communication. I’ve also learned how important is it to build relationships no matter where you are in the world,” reflected junior biology major Payson Wilks on the Exploring Environmental and Human Health Issues in Japan experience.
Led by faculty in the School of Earth Sciences, students cultivate a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between environmental earth science and society, with a special emphasis on human health issues in Japan.
“As a pre-med student passionate about health disparities, I wanted to explore how other countries approach environmental and human health. Japan provided a unique opportunity to study real-world case studies of environmental disasters and how communities recovered and adapted. Experiencing this abroad helped me understand the global interconnectedness of health, policy and cultural context in ways the classroom alone never could.”
Students engaged with lectures given at Japanese universities and took excursions to cities like Tokyo, Toyama, Fukushima, Sendai and more.
“My study abroad experience in Japan was memorable because it offered a powerful blend of hands-on academic learning and cultural immersion. From visiting historical sites like Hiroshima to learning about environmental health firsthand in Minamata and Fukushima, every day offered a new lens through which to view public and global health. What made it truly special was connecting with local university students and professors,” said Wilks.
“This program has strengthened my cultural competency and widened my perspective on public and environmental health. Both are essential qualities for a future physician. As I continue my journey to medical school and beyond, I now carry a global awareness that will help me better serve diverse patient populations and be aware of more holistic care solutions.”