ジュリアンさんは、2006年6～12月、香川県海外技術研修員として、香川県内にある猪子デザイン研究室でグラフィックデザインの勉強をされました。 このたび、当時の思い出や香川（日本）への想い、現在のブラジルでの暮らしぶりを書いた手紙をいただきましたので、ご紹介します。
First, allow me to introduce myself: I am Julian, a third-generation Brazilian-Japanese. I am 23 years old. Nice to meet you! My grandparents on my mother's side are originally from Kagawa; they immigrated to Brazil in 1933 and lived there until they passed away, never returning to Japan. I used to listen to my grandparents speaking Japanese, but I never understood a word of it. My interest in Japanese culture began there--I decided to study Japanese, and to visit my grandparents' hometown. Finally, in 2006, I came to Japan as a part of the Overseas Technical Trainee group.
I lived in Takamatsu from June until December, studying graphic design at Inoko Design. I ran into cultural and linguistic problems sometimes, but everyone always helped me out, and every day was very fun. I wish I could have been there longer. Outside of work I traveled, participated in various events, and even met relatives for the first time--it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
In December it was time to end this wonderful experience and head home, a sad time indeed. On the plane back to Brazil I looked back over all the good memories I had of Japan, and thought of what a great country it is. I decided that I will definitely be returning!
When I arrived home my friends and family greeted me warmly, and I remembered all the good things about Brazil. I love Brazil, but I feel like I'm seeing both it and the world with new eyes since December.
I arrived home in the middle of summer break, so I spent a few months taking trips, partying, and hanging out with friends. College classes and a return to a normal life began in March. I'm not working yet, but I've applied to a number of different positions; the exchange student advisor is helping me find a job that fits. For the moment, I'm a freelancer.
As I said before, I'd really like to return to Japan. I am scheduled to graduate in 2008. Even now I am glad that my connection with Japan continues, as I exchange mail with friends I made there, read manga, watch anime, and continue my Japanese study. Japan has a lot of virtues, and a lot of things that it should be proud of.
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