While the speech contest was fun what I really enjoyed was the time spent preparing for the cheer with my classmates. It gave us time to connect as a class outside of the classroom.
Which events or activities did you find the most satisfying and why?
While the speech contest was fun what I really enjoyed was the time spent preparing for the cheer with my classmates. It gave us time to connect as a class outside of the classroom.
What were your goals in attending the KCP program?
To improve my oral Japanese skills and learn more about the modern Japanese culture.
Why did you select this program?
KCP's summer long term program was one of the only study abroad programs that fit into my college's summer break perfectly. Furthermore I was attracted to the program because all the classes were taught entirely in Japanese with students from various countries.
What were the most productive and interesting aspects of the program for you? The least interesting and productive?
One of the most interesting aspect of the program was being in a classroom with students from across the world. This forced us to use Japanese and not rely on our native language. In addition to learning about the Japanese culture I was also able to learn a lot the cultures from China, Korea, Brazil, etc.
What did you find most valuable in the Culture Course?
The unique opportunities that the course offered. Many of the places or activities would've been very difficult to do without the aid of the course.
Were you pleased with the general living arrangements? Anything you especially liked? Any problems you experienced?
I liked having my own room as it gave me a good place to relax after a long day of school and hanging out with friends. I really enjoyed the flexibility and autonomy of living in a dorm like Tanashi as it made the experience of living in Japan feel more authentic. As silly as it may sound I felt like a true Japanese citizen walking down the street to get a convenience store bento.
Any further thoughts or tips for those considering the program or new KCP students?
At KCP it is important to go into things with an open mind since there are students coming from so many different cultural backgrounds.
Any other comments or suggestions?
While it may be difficult to organize and plan it would be nice if there were more opportunities to interact with students outside of one's classroom. Another school-wide event would be nice, but even smaller things like neighboring classes join together once in a while for a fun group activity or classes could eat lunch together in the KCP auditorium. I made a lot of very significant bonds with my classmates but would've enjoyed meeting more students. Overall KCP was an amazing experience for me and I would gladly attend KCP again in the future if the opportunity arose. I would definitely recommend the program for anyone wanting to learn Japanese.
