Joseph Ortiz, a senior at Cal State Fullerton, is living out his dream by studying abroad in Japan. A business administration major with a minor in Japanese, Ortiz is spending the 2024-25 academic year at Waseda University in Tokyo, thanks to the Bridging Project Scholarship.
This scholarship, designed to strengthen ties between the United States and Japan, supports undergraduate students in their study abroad journeys. Ortiz learned about it from Abigail Segura, the study abroad adviser at CSUF’s Study Abroad and Global Engagement (SAGE) office.
“Scholarships are key to making study abroad accessible,” Segura said. “Our team is here to help students through every stage — from planning their trip to navigating applications and securing funding like the Bridging Project Scholarship. Watching students like Joseph fulfill their study abroad dreams is truly rewarding.”
At Waseda University, Ortiz is taking economics courses and working toward completing his Japanese minor. He aims to improve his Japanese speaking and comprehension skills and deepen his understanding of Japanese culture.
“I hope to immerse myself in Japanese culture, expand my social and professional networks, and gain a better understanding of life in Japan,” Ortiz shared.
In addition to his studies, Ortiz plans to travel across Japan. “I want to visit all 47 prefectures and experience the country’s diverse cuisines. My goal is to form lasting connections and create unforgettable memories,” he said.
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