Studying abroad in one of the world's most wired nations ensured that web technology would play a big part in Alissa Nagel's experience. During her year in the Japan Women's University program, Nagel's technical milestones included launching an entertaining blog to share her adventures with family and friends, and getting the hang of cell phone text messaging. The colorful blog, which she created with fellow student Moire Duggan, proved to be a huge success. "We wrote at least once or twice a week and uploaded photos, too. People could write comments either on the photos or in a designated comment area," she explains.

Information technology is an integral part of everyday life in Japan. "Everyone owned a laptop and had access to everyone at all times through their cell phones," Nagel observes. "Wireless Internet was set up in the dorm and I used the Internet all the time. For some of my classes, I used the Internet for all of my research projects…and it helped me stay in touch with Cari Vanderkar (associate director of the overseas study program) and other international studies professors when I had questions about class requirements, etc."

Like Maggie Grega, Nagel was so inspired by her study abroad experience that she works as a peer assistant in the Office of International Programs, advising students and promoting interest in the program. She, too, hopes to join the Peace Corps after graduating this spring, and one day would like to return to Japan.

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