Chikako San: How I got to Japan

I had no idea what to expect when I finally walked into the International Student Affairs Office at Nagoya University.  The only thing I knew about my month at Nagoya was that I needed to show up at that office at noon on Monday to meet Chikako.  I’d been emailing back and forth with Chikako over the last four months to get everything in line for me to come to Nagoya.  Before I arrived, she’d helped me complete my application, booked my flights here, found me a place to stay, coordinated my rotations, and answered my million questions.  After all the help she’d give me  I was looking forward to meeting her, but nervous at the same time.  I had no idea what she’d be like in person and she was the ONLY person I “knew” in the entire country other than my Aunt Reiko.   When I knocked on the door and heard a happy “Come in!” my nerve subsided and I knew I’d found the right place.  A beautiful, fashionably dressed woman greeted me by my name then gave me a big smile and a hug.  Her English was perfect and her quick laugh reminded me of my mom.  I instantly felt comfortable and reassured that this month would turn out just fine.

After taking care of a few business items, it was time for me to start my rotation.  I thanked Chikako and gave her the Tulane coffee mug and jar of Tony Chacheres seasoning I’d brought her from home.  After warning her that the seasoning was spicy and just try a little, she laughed and reassured me that she liked spicy food and sometimes Japanese food needs a little kick to it.  With that, my vacation was over and we headed to the gastroenterology Department where I’d be rotating.  Again, my nerves started to kick in; I wasn’t sure I was ready to be an American Medical Student in Japan.  But as it turns out, when the only person you know in an entire city reminds you of your mom, everything seems a little easier.