Studying abroad can feel exhilarating yet lonely, but nearby nature, welcoming circles, and campus programs can make finding your footing easier. This guide points you to peaceful green spots, friendly meetups, and the Professional Student Healthcare Centers—so you truly never walk alone.
No matter how old you are, when you decide to leave your comfort zone and continue your academic journey in another country, it’s a monumental step. Alongside all the other factors you consider – the research, the culture, the logistics – there’s that underlying question about connection. You’ll naturally be thinking about your surroundings and the new circle you’ll make for yourself, regardless of whether you’re an introvert or an extrovert. This adventure, especially at a vibrant place like Science Tokyo, is a whirlwind of fresh faces, challenging classes, and endless discoveries. But sometimes, right in the middle of all that energy, a quiet feeling can surface. Maybe it’s a pang of loneliness during a late-night study session, or a touch of anxiety when navigating a new social scene. If that sounds familiar, I get it. I’ve been there and so having many others. It’s that almost invisible feeling of being adrift, even when surrounded by other people. If you’ve ever felt that way, please know this: you’re not the only one, and most importantly, at Science Tokyo, you truly never walk alone. There are so many ways to find comfort, connection, and support. Come with me and I’ll tell you the story of a Frank Sinatra song!
Finding Solace in Nature’s Embrace
Sometimes, the best way to clear your head and soothe your soul is to immerse yourself in nature. It has this incredible way of grounding and reminding you of the bigger picture. Luckily, we have some beautiful green havens right near our campuses.
If you’re near the Ookayama campus, a short walk or a quick train ride can take you to Senzokuike Park. I remember the first time I visited; the sense of calm was immediate. It’s a lovely spot with a large pond where you can rent a boat or just sit by the water and watch the ducks and swans. For me, the simple sounds of rustling leaves and the gentle lapping of water, watching families and friends enjoying a stroll – it became my perfect escape to just breathe and reset. Whether it’s the vibrant cherry blossoms in spring or the rich colors in autumn, Senzokuike offers a peaceful retreat year-round.
And for those of you who love to lose yourself in nature all day long, there’s great news! At the Suzukakedai campus, you’re in between of the mother nature’s warm arms! Here on my campus, the good thing is how refreshing it is to just wander through the vast green spaces, getting lost among the trees. The campus itself is known for its beautiful scenery, especially during cherry blossom season. There’s something incredibly therapeutic about being able to step out of your lab or library and into such a unique environment. It’s a reminder that even amidst intense study, moments of peace and natural beauty are always close by.
Discovering Your Tribe: Communities and Connections at Science Tokyo
While nature offers solace, human connection is just as vital for our well-being. Loneliness often stems from a longing to share, to be understood, and to belong. The good news is that Science Tokyo is a vibrant community teeming with opportunities to find your people.
One of the best ways I’ve found to meet like-minded individuals is by joining student clubs and circles. The range is incredible – from cultural clubs like the Photo Club, Art Club or ChessTech, to performance groups like Orchestra or Drama Club, and even sports clubs. Just check out the official list of student clubs – I guarantee you will find your own hobby among the vast spectrum of different Science Tokyo clubs. But maybe you’re too deep into your research, or other things have you too busy for the fixed schedule of a formal club; no worries, been there done that, as a PhD student I totally get it.
Beyond the formal clubs, there are also more casual ways to connect. Keep an eye out for Open Forums and events on campus where you can discuss various topics, or drop by an Multilingual Chat session hosted by the Peer Life Coaches at Global Lounge to chat with new people in a relaxed setting. I remember the very first time I joined them. It was two years ago, and students from different labs gathered to make Christmas tree ornaments using origami. It was such a simple, lovely way to connect with new people, share a creative moment, and just… talk. No pressure at all. In my opinion these are great, low-pressure ways to strike up a conversation and find common interests.
And don’t forget your own lab and classmates! They can become like a second family – your senpai in your lab are often your first friends and guides. In my case, we shared stories, laughter, and yes, even our anxieties. It’s incredibly comforting to realize that others are navigating similar experiences or have even found their way through them. Whether formal clubs or informal groups of friends from your lab and classes, these communities will become your support system, your home away from home.
Expanding Horizons and Friendships: Beyond the Lab with ToTAL
While your labs, clubs, and cultural groups offer rich communities, Science Tokyo also encourages you to look beyond your immediate academic path for even more connections and growth. That’s where programs like ToTAL (Academy for Leadership) come in. In my opinion, the fascinating thing about ToTAL’s courses and workshops are not just that they help you develop leadership skills, but they are also fantastic avenues for meeting people from completely different departments and backgrounds.
Imagine working on a design thinking project, practicing negotiation skills, or engaging in a debate club (in English or Japanese!) with students whose research is worlds apart from yours. These experiences push you to see things from new perspectives and, just as important, they create a natural environment for new friendships to blossom. The collaborative nature of many ToTAL activities means you’re working closely with others, sharing ideas, and learning together. It’s a brilliant way to broaden your social circle and find common ground with people you might not have otherwise met.
Professional Support When You Need It: It happens to us ALL!
It’s also incredibly important to remember that it’s okay to not be okay, AND it’s more than okay to seek professional help. Sometimes, the feelings of loneliness, anxiety, or stress can become too much to handle on our own, and you may not feel comfortable to share it with your close friends for many different reasons. That’s where the university’s dedicated support services shine!
Whether you speak in English or Japanese, Science Tokyo has Student Healthcare Centers on each campus, and they offer professional counseling services for both physical and mental health concerns. I know someone who was feeling overwhelmed and homesick, suffering from some personal life troubles and they found immense relief by talking to a counselor. These services are confidential and, importantly, they are free for all students. The counselors are there to listen without judgment and can help you understand the root of your feelings and develop strategies and give you rational practices to cope with and overcome them. Reaching out is a sign of strength, and it’s a proactive step towards feeling better!
You can refer to the links below for more details and their schedules:
in English here, and for Japanese please refer to here
YNWA-You’ll Never Walk Alone
Navigating university life has its ups and downs, but the journey is so much richer and more manageable when we remember the resources and connections available to us. Whether it’s finding peace in nature, building your community through the many diverse clubs and associations, exploring new learning adventures with ToTAL, or seeking professional guidance, there are always paths to take and hands to reach out to.
If that shadow of loneliness ever starts to creep in, PLEASE do not ever forget that “at the end of a storm is a golden sky and the sweet sliver song of a lark”. So, in the end, here is the priceless lesson I learnt:
Take that first step, leave your so-called comfort zone, reach out, explore a new path, connect with one more person.
Your Science Tokyo family, in all its diverse and welcoming forms, is genuinely here, ready to meet you. After you get that, YOU WILL – for sure – NEVER WALK ALONE!
