There are many differences in Japan and the USA. When I was staying there, I attended a Middle School – like Junior High School in Japan. I was shocked when I got there how many gangs there were and that graffiti was everywhere in the schools and in public restrooms. Terrible things were written all over the walls. I lived in a safe place and attended a nice small school. About 400 students ages 12, 13, and 14 were there and I had two Japanese friends who also went to the school. We were lucky because there were not too many drugs or guns – but there were some at the school. Most kids just got in trouble for graffiti, starting fights or bringing cigarettes or alcohol to school. Also in America kids aren’t required to clean the schools like we are in Japan. If kids had to clean in America, and they saw how much work it was to clean, I think graffiti would stop. American children need to clean up after themselves.
Another thing that is very different in school in the US is the lunch menu. In Japan, we get nutritious meals with many different food groups. In America, they offer a variety of things that are not healthy. On Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays we were served hamburgers and French fries. On Tuesdays and Thursdays we got pizza and a little bit of fruit or vegetables. Also, I thought it was very strange that the cafeteria had many vending machines. There were candy, soda, and chip machines, and unfortunately most of the students spend their money on junk food and snacks. I am happy to be back in Japan and eating a healthy school lunch again.
Anonymous
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