Eli Hamre

Before studying abroad, Eli knew he wanted to push himself beyond familiarity, but he didn’t fully realize how transformative that experience would be. Traveling to Tokyo meant stepping into an environment where he was surrounded by new faces and communicating in a language he had only studied for two years. “Being in that kind of setting was intimidating,” he shares, “but having people around me who were patient and excited for me to learn made all the difference.” That support helped him embrace mistakes as part of the process and showed him just how meaningful studying abroad can be during the undergraduate experience. 

From teaching English at Meiji University and leading theatre workshops, Eli discovered that growth comes from both challenge and curiosity. Working with students who were much older than himself deepened his appreciation for language learning while strengthening his confidence as an educator. He also honed practical skills like lesson planning and classroom leadership, all while improving his Japanese. A highlight of his time abroad was a trip to Kamakura, where he wore a yukata, explored historic temples, enjoyed local food, and swam in the ocean with a friend he met through teaching, an experience that captured the cultural immersion he had hoped for. 

For students considering studying abroad, Eli’s advice: Stay curious.