Oct. 19 - Although I enjoy interacting with friends and colleagues in Japanese, I frequently meet Japanese people who speak English fluently. Recently I met one such person who said he learned English while attending a small college in North Carolina.

He had a great deal of self confidence and could express his thoughts clearly in both English and Japanese. I thought to myself that I have met many study abroad returnees like him who have strong English-language skills and are comfortable communicating with foreigners. We enjoyed a wonderful conversation about his hometown in Japan and some of the economic challenges it faces.

Meeting people like this new friend inspires me to encourage more Japanese students to consider studying abroad. When I talk to Japanese students about this option, they have many questions about American university life, the student visa process, finances and other issues.

To answer these questions, the American Embassy will sponsor a study abroad fair called America Expo 2010 at Palette Town in Odaiba on Oct. 24. Many experts and organizations with information about study in the United States will be available to answer questions.

In addition, we hope participants will enjoy live performances and a variety of American food. For more information please visit http://america-expo.jp

I plan to come to the fair and meet Japanese students interested in studying abroad. Hope to see you there!

Until next time,

Jim

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P.S: The latest edition of the Embassy's quarterly online magazine "American View" is devoted to studying abroad. It includes in-depth interviews with Japanese students about their experiences in the United States as well as frequently asked questions about visas and other requirements.