In this episode of Life Exchanged: Stories of Understanding, host Kelsey Ross sits down with Joy Cade, Virtual Orientations Chairperson at YFU and former exchange student to Japan.
Joy shares her remarkable journey studying abroad in Shikoku, Japan, diving into the challenges and beauty of Japanese language, culture, school life, and personal growth. From learning kanji and navigating cultural shock to experiencing Shinto philosophy and joining a Japanese dance club, Joy offers deep insight into what makes studying abroad transformative.
Whether you’re preparing for your own exchange, supporting a student, or simply love cross‑cultural stories, this episode is packed with warmth, wisdom, and Joy—literally.