tldr: my Japanese is horrible/next to nothing and im scared I made the wrong decision
hello, in less than 2 weeks I leave to study abroad in Japan for 5 months. I'm lucky enough to have a college plan that covers studying abroad (mostly), so it was a definite thing I wanted to do senior year.
I ranked schools i wanted, mostly European, and japan was my most competitive school on my list so I didnt think id get picked, but liked the idea of it since ive always been interested in going. Problem is, I never professionally studied Japanese.
When I found out I got picked in October, I started doing some Pimsleur courses and learned hiragana and some kanji/katana. I tried to stay consistent, but its been patchy between finishing my last semester and working. I dont even think im N5, but I know very basic convo (introductions, asking for directions, ordering food, basic words, etc.).
From messaging people also in my program and talking to some whose gone in the past, they are all pretty proficient, having taken real classes and studying for 1-3 years.
All that being said, I'm scared that I made the complete wrong decision and will feel very incapable and unfit living there. Im doing my best to study every day, but I won't have enough time to be even somewhat "good" by the time I get there
Has anyone been in the same/similar situation, or know anyone who has? I've known people who travel a few weeks with my same level and are fine, but im so scared that I just set myself up for failure and extreme difficulty in everyday life for 5 months. Any feedback/advice is greatly appreciated
EDIT: any suggestions for what I should prioritize in learning (language-wise or otherwise) before departure would be super helpful! 🙂
by Particular_Elk_2071