| What is your name?
Nithya Prakesh
Where was your internship located?
Ueda, Nagano Prefecture, Japan.
How has the experience influenced your career path?
While in Japan via the G-WILL International program, I visited colleges and high schools, and areas of interest. I had the opportunity to meet with local government officials (e.g., City Hall) and foreign affairs minded NGO members. The experience definitely made me want to go back to Japan and try living/working there.
Any recommendations for GW students who want to intern/volunteer in the same country?
I interacted with locals in English, but you should be prepared to communicate thoughtfully with people who speak very little English especially when outside of the majors cities—whether that means brushing up on your Japanese or on your gesturing. Despite not having the same language, everyone is just as smart, accommodating, and understanding as you, so you'll have no problems once you get going!
Are you a Colonial who has traveled abroad for a job, internship, or volunteer opportunity? Share your experience with other students! | 
