People of Central: Grace Riney

Story by: Brooke DuVall

“I think it definitely changed me. It made me more self confident and a little more outgoing,” said CMU student Grace Riney, when reflecting on her study abroad experience. 

Riney spent a semester studying abroad in Japan for the 2025 fall semester. She took Japanese classes at The Japan Center for Michigan Universities, located in Hikone, Shiga Japan.

Aspects of Japanese culture drew her in, especially castles, anime, and the Tokyo Game Show. 

“The Tokyo Game Show is this big convention where they show off the newest video games,” said Riney. “It’s just a huge convention and it’s fairly famous.” 

The idea of experiencing another culture excited Riney. 

“I wanted to visit somewhere I’ve never been that’s very different from where I’m living,” said Riney.

The peacefulness of Japan was a breath of fresh air compared to America’s fast paced lifestyle. 

“In America, you’re constantly bombarded by sounds, people, smells, everything,” she said, “but in Japan it’s very peaceful. Even when you’re on the subways and stuff it’s pretty quiet. People talk in hushed voices so they don’t disturb other people.” 

Riney got to experience education in a new light. She took intensive Japanese courses, fully immersing herself in their culture and language. 

“I took an elective class about nature, people, and Japanese literature,” said Riney, “it was very rigorous for a Japanese class. My other class was a bit more laid back, definitely like an English type course.” 

She also had the chance to meet local students, their friendships expanding beyond the study abroad experience. 

“I definitely made friends with the local students, some of them even planning on coming to Michigan,” said Riney, “my favorite memory from the program was when our small group of friends went out to this Italian restaurant, we just goofed off and had fun. Nothing really beats that.”

Another memory that stands out to Riney was when she toured Nagahama, experiencing the beauty of Japanese tradition. 

“We got to experience the culture of the city in more depth,” she explained. “We went and had some traditional food, and we did a traditional tea ceremony. We also got to wear kimonos, and it was wonderful.” 

Riney recommends anyone contemplating studying abroad to go for it. 

“Do it 100%,” she said. “You learn so much and you grow so close with the people that you’re with. Just do it, even if you have doubts.” 

Riney’s experience can inspire others to escape their comfort zone for a lifetime of memories.