(no subject)
So yesterday, I finally had my first conversation practice with my tutor. Here at Tsukuba, a tutor is usually a Japanese student who is paid by the school to help international students. They don't get paid a lot though, something like 40-60 dollars for one semester and I can get help for around 40 hours. I butchered the language quite a bit but overall it was helpful and I met others as well. He showed me his research room and surprise surprise, most people were actually there. Unlike mine, where I rarely see others. I think it is because the room for Ph.D candidates is actually close to my adviser's office. My research room is further away so everyone has the leeway to skip. I do admit I have taken advantage of the distance as well though.
My tutor and his friend took me to a izakaya (drinking establishment) and held a mini welcome party-ish thing, though it was quite small and a bit late considering I have been here almost 2 months. It was an interesting experience though and I guess it is true that when you drink in Japan nothing is off limits. Something I realized in Japan, most people here like to drink but the Taiwanese students here can't drink a lot. Many Japanese students are heavyweights though and I guess they are appreciative of the fact that I can hold my own against them. I have definitely softened my stance against alcohol the past few years. While it is still not my drink of choice and not something I will actively look to do, it is sometimes an essential part of social life. Sometimes you just have to take what you get and go with it.
My tutor and his friend took me to a izakaya (drinking establishment) and held a mini welcome party-ish thing, though it was quite small and a bit late considering I have been here almost 2 months. It was an interesting experience though and I guess it is true that when you drink in Japan nothing is off limits. Something I realized in Japan, most people here like to drink but the Taiwanese students here can't drink a lot. Many Japanese students are heavyweights though and I guess they are appreciative of the fact that I can hold my own against them. I have definitely softened my stance against alcohol the past few years. While it is still not my drink of choice and not something I will actively look to do, it is sometimes an essential part of social life. Sometimes you just have to take what you get and go with it.