Abstract
The author conducted life story interviews with two former exchange students in Japan regarding the meaning to them of studying in Japan. They are now in careers that do not involve the use of Japanese. The interview results were classified into four categories (values, experiences, relationships, and abilities), and values were discussed. The results showed that the ordinary experiences they had in Japan were important memories for them. These experiences could not have been possible without actually studying in Japan, and are considered very important when considering the meaning of studying in Japan.