Attending an international school had a profound impact on my life, shaping my skills, perspectives, and values. However, the journey from university to career, and eventually to my current path, was anything but straightforward. Reflecting on my experiences, I’ve come to realize that while the education I received was invaluable, the choices I made—and the lessons I learned along the way—were just as significant in defining who I am today.
Table of Contents
A Mismatch with American Society
After graduating from my international school, I pursued higher education in the United States. Having studied in English for years, I felt prepared for the academic challenges. However, living in the U.S. exposed me to a society that I can only describe as “a pure embodiment of capitalism.” The culture of competition and obsession with material success felt overwhelming and alien to me. I struggled to imagine myself thriving in such an environment.
On top of that, the financial burden of studying abroad became increasingly difficult to justify. Eventually, I decided to return to Japan and transfer to a local university. My parents strongly believed in the importance of earning a degree, so I followed through and graduated. Yet, even now, I sometimes wonder: “Did graduating from university really matter in the grand scheme of things?”
Eight Years in Finance
After graduation, I entered the finance industry—a common career path for international school alumni. My English skills and familiarity with global perspectives allowed me to work on international projects and navigate cross-cultural environments. Despite this, it didn’t take long for me to realize that the corporate world wasn’t a good fit for me.
I stayed in finance for about eight years, doing my best to adapt and succeed. But deep down, I knew this wasn’t where I belonged. Eventually, I reached a breaking point and decided to leave. That chapter of my life taught me an important lesson: no matter how much effort you put into something, if it doesn’t align with your true self, it’s unsustainable.
Music and Blogging: A New Chapter
Today, I focus on music and blogging—two pursuits that feel far more authentic to who I am. In many ways, these creative paths reflect the independence and self-expression fostered during my time at an international school. That said, I often ask myself: “Did attending an international school really prepare me for this?” It’s hard to say for certain.
What is clear is that some aspects of my education have been invaluable. For example, being able to write blogs in English has opened up opportunities to connect with a global audience. Similarly, the ability to approach topics from diverse perspectives has enriched both my writing and creative work.
The Importance of Self-Understanding
Looking back, I’ve realized that more than any skill or knowledge gained from school, what truly shaped my journey was self-understanding. My experiences in American society, Japanese academia, and the corporate world all taught me one crucial truth: “I can’t force myself to do things I don’t want to do.” This realization has guided every major decision since.
My current life as a musician and blogger is a direct result of this self-awareness. It’s not always easy or conventional, but it feels true to who I am—and that’s what matters most.
Final Thoughts
The path from international school graduate to where I am now has been anything but linear. While it’s hard to say whether my education directly prepared me for what I do today, it undoubtedly provided a foundation that allowed me to explore different possibilities. Ultimately, learning who you are—and having the courage to live authentically—is what makes all the difference.
If you’re reading this and struggling with similar questions about your own path in life or career choices, know that it’s okay not to have all the answers right away. Sometimes it takes trial and error (and maybe even eight years in an industry you don’t love) to figure out what truly matters to you. And when you do find it? That’s when life starts feeling like your own.
Comment