A Phone Call That Led Me to Japan
A Phone Call That Led Me to Japan
This may not be the most dramatic story you will ever read. It is not a guidebook for success, nor a list of motivational lessons. Yet, my journey to Japan began with something as simple as a phone call — a moment that changed the direction of my life and brought me to this remarkable island of Kyushu.
An Unexpected Call
It happened during last year’s summer vacation. I was performing umrah, thousands of kilometers away from my home in Indonesia, when I received a call from a former professor who had once taught me during my law studies.
It had been nearly fifteen years since I sat in her class, and almost a decade since we last spoke. So when her name appeared on my phone screen, I was surprised and a little nervous.
Her voice instantly brought back memories of my student days. We exchanged greetings, laughed politely, and caught up. Then she asked a question that left me silent for a moment:
“Do you still want to study abroad?”
An Old Dream Rekindled
Back in 2015, I had tried to pursue a master’s degree overseas. I even received a Letter of Acceptance from a university in the United Kingdom. But my scholarship application was unsuccessful, and I quietly buried the disappointment.
I focused on building a stable career in banking and let the dream fade into the background. Yet somehow, that simple phone call brought it back to life.
When I returned to Indonesia, I couldn’t stop thinking about it. The next morning, I found myself standing outside her office. She welcomed me warmly and asked,
“Have you ever been to Japan?”
I said no. She smiled and replied,
“Perfect.”
That single word marked the beginning of my next chapter.
The Path to Japan
My professor introduced me to Kyushu University and explained the MEXT Scholarship. I began my application through the University Recommendation pathway — a long process that tested my patience but strengthened my determination.
Then came the day that changed everything: I received the acceptance email. I had been awarded the MEXT Scholarship.
A New Beginning in Fukuoka
A year after that phone call, I finally arrived in Fukuoka. I remember stepping off the plane, unsure of what awaited me but filled with gratitude. Waiting for the Kyushu University shuttle at the airport, I felt an immediate warmth — as if the city itself was welcoming me.
Life here has been filled with discovery. Fukuoka is calm yet lively, with friendly people, delicious food, and breathtaking scenery. The university’s environment has challenged me to grow both academically and personally. Each day, walking through tree-lined roads surrounded by hills, I am reminded how lucky I am to be here.
Reflections
Looking back, it’s incredible how a simple phone call can change the course of a life. If my professor hadn’t reached out, I might still be sitting at my office desk, wondering where that old dream had gone.
Japan has taught me that dreams never truly disappear. They rest quietly in our hearts, waiting for the right moment to rise again. Sometimes, all it takes is a small act — a conversation, a voice, a question — to bring them back to life.
“How are you? Do you still want to study abroad?”
That one question opened the door to everything that followed.
Gratitude and Hope
Today, as I live and study in this beautiful country, I carry deep gratitude for the people who guided me. MEXT has given me not only an education but also the belief that I still have something to pursue and something to give back.
My journey is still unfolding. I don’t know what the future holds, but I continue to walk forward — learning, exploring, and growing — with courage and hope.
Acknowledgements
This story is dedicated to Prof. Ningrum Natasya Sirait from Universitas Sumatera Utara (and Dr. Yati and Dr. Devi) and Prof. Steven Van Uytsel from Kyushu University, whose guidance made this journey possible.
It is also for my parents, sisters, and my close friends in Indonesia — the DJ Snake Family (yes, the name still makes me smile) — for their constant laughter and support.
And finally, for my fellow MEXT Cultural Conflict LL.M. awardees, whose shared experiences continue to inspire me.
