So yesterday, I finally had my first conversation practice with my tutor. Here at Tsukuba, a tutor is usually a Japanese student who is paid by the school to help international students. They don't get paid a lot though, something like 40-60 dollars for one semester and I can get help for around 40 hours. I butchered the language quite a bit but overall it was helpful and I met others as well. He showed me his research room and surprise surprise, most people were actually there. Unlike mine, where I rarely see others. I think it is because the room for Ph.D candidates is actually close to my adviser's office. My research room is further away so everyone has the leeway to skip. I do admit I have taken advantage of the distance as well though.

My tutor and his friend took me to a izakaya (drinking establishment) and held a mini welcome party-ish thing, though it was quite small and a bit late considering I have been here almost 2 months. It was an interesting experience though and I guess it is true that when you drink in Japan nothing is off limits. Something I realized in Japan, most people here like to drink but the Taiwanese students here can't drink a lot. Many Japanese students are heavyweights though and I guess they are appreciative of the fact that I can hold my own against them. I have definitely softened my stance against alcohol the past few years. While it is still not my drink of choice and not something I will actively look to do, it is sometimes an essential part of social life. Sometimes you just have to take what you get and go with it.