Alex Nguyen
<p>Hi, I'm Alex. I'm a junior at Columbia University majoring in Urban Studies and dabbling in other areas of interest like race & ethnicity studies. Outside of school, I like to eat, cook, take pictures, shop, have long conversations, and travel. Food, fashion, culture, literature, and music are all things I love. Black and gold are my favorite colors. Having lived in New York City for two years now, I feel quite at home. However, living in Japan is something I have wanted to do all my life, so I'm quite excited to finally live out that dream. From the local culture to the food to the fashion, I'm pumped to engage with it all during my semester abroad.</p>
Blogs by Alex Nguyen
I'll Miss You, Japan
Sayonara (for now).
What's Better than a Cat Café? An Owl Café
A story about that time I went to an owl café and got to pet and be around 20+ species of owls for an hour.
Getting a Haircut in Japan
The story of the time I got a free haircut at a nice salon in Tokyo with minimal proficiency in the language.
How To Go Out in Tokyo
Some tips for those seeking to experience the nightlife of Tokyo.
For the Love of Ramen
A little history lesson on one of Japan's most famous dishes and why it's so amazing.
The Value of Solitude
Ramblings on being by oneself, learning how to do so, and why it's not bad.
Adjusting to the Little Things & Why It's Important
From bathroom behavior to train etiquette, this post focuses on small differences in Japanese society that are nonetheless important and necessary to realize.
Making the Most out of Studying Abroad
A general how-to for having a meaningful and fulfilling experience of studying abroad.
Silver Week in Kyoto
Pictures from my vacation in Kyoto so you can cry at pretty things.
September Reflections
This week's post reflects on a month of adventures and random events with optimism for the future.
Five Cultural Observations from a Keen Foreigner with a Knack for Scrutiny
In this week's post, cultural observations on Japan's society and culture are provided from personal experiences had as a foreign student newly arrived in Japan...
The Calm
Pre-departure thoughts, feelings, and observations manifested after months of mental preparation and excitement.