Japan 11.08.2012 - 24.08.2012

Andrea Willi

Holding a BA in Economics, Andrea is currently concluding the licentiate (MA) in Japanese Studies at the University of Zurich. She did a one-year exchange programme at Waseda University in Tokyo and organized the IFIL trip to Japan 2010.

Japan is a fascinating country that surprises me with new discoveries and challenges every day. Having lived in Japan for almost than two years, I would like to share these enriching experiences with other students. I am looking forward to realizing a second study trip to Japan!


Comment from Katherine: With Andrea you will never get lost in translation, but in all other means (don’t worry, I am with you too). But she is the absolute perfect guide when it comes to food. Anything special you would like to try in Japan? She is with you.

Katherine Meyer

Katherine Meyer is currently enrolled at the University of Zurich, where she studies Japanese studies, Economics and East Asian Art History. She spent one year as an exchange student in Kyoto refining her Japanese. She is presently writing her final thesis.

Once I started to discover Japan it took me in completely. In my year in Kyoto I experienced a traditional Japanese sport called Kyudo (Japanese Archery) and all the traditions and social dimensions linked with it. The Japanese society today meets many challenges. I am very much looking forward to exploring together different aspects of Japan and sharing my wonderful experiences with you!


Comment from Andrea: Her knowledge on Japanese art history even impressed Japanese during a guided tour in a temple in Korea, not at least because of her Kansai dialect. After having spent a night in karaoke with Katherine, you will know that singing is only a little part of it!