Student Voice: AIU, An International Oasis – Ethan Hoggan, University of Utah, U.S.A.

Over the past 3 years of my life, I have traveled to 15 countries, 4 continents, and met numerous people from all over the world. Along my journey, I saw expansive cities, grand museums, incredible nature, and historical monuments. However, out of all these experiences, my time at AIU stands out to me as the most important.

Ethan, the second from right in the middle row, in front of the massive Akita-inu plush at Akita station.

The reason AIU has been the most important experience is because people from all over the world interact every day like they were best friends. People from Japan, China, the US, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Latvia, the UK, Australia, Mongolia, Brunei, Kenya, Canada, and more, were all there. Often in the media we hear negative stories of how ties with countries are breaking down and how the world is becoming divided. I am here to tell you that at AIU, it’s different. The world seemed to come to a standstill as everyone came together rather than drift apart. At AIU, I was able to make some of the best friends I will ever have. These friends are not only generous but also the most heart-warming people I have ever known.

Ethan with the party glasses having fun with his friends.

By placing students in a secluded environment in the countryside of Japan, it really helps international bonds become stronger. Nowhere in the world have I ever experienced such peace. Now that classes have moved online and I’ve returned to America, I miss the school very much. Even so, AIU has still been able to offer an incredible international experience through their online program. Going to AIU has been one of the most important choices I have made in my life and it deserves your attention.

Studied at AIU in the Fall 2019 Semester and currently studying in AIU’s online Spring 2020 Semester.