For my CIP, I took weekly hip-hop classes at FlyDanceStudio, located in Kawaramachi. I attended three classes led by Ruka先生、Nana先生、and Neo先生 on Mondays and Wednesdays. Nana’s class was beginner dance, and Ruka and Neo’s classes were taught at the intermediate/advanced level. Regardless of the indicated level, I think every class challenged me each time I attended. Over time, I began to notice gradual improvements in both areas, especially in dance retention and overall confidence. The studio didn’t really foster an environment where I could always talk freely in Japanese since the classes were structured so that the instructor could teach a whole choreo within the set time, but in the moments I did exchange conversation with my classmates and instructors, it was always encouraging. Not just with dance, but also when trying to apply language skills in real life, you’re put in situations where hesitation can hold you back from reaching your full potential. Taking classes in a language that, although I’m learning, I didn’t know the proper dance terminology, I had to learn to not be afraid to make mistakes in order to accurately measure growth. Despite the limited communication in class, every time I walked out of class with more motivation to continue studying Japanese in order to preserve the relationship I had with my instructors. Whether it’s taking a dance class for the first time or when you’re put in flight-or-fight mode, I think the most memorable moments I had in Kyoto were when I pushed myself outside of my comfort zone even if I wasn’t fully confident I could.