[International Exchange] Participants in the New Zealand training program return home

Two students who participated in the summer training program at the University of Waikato in New Zealand returned home safely on August 31st, after completing their program from August 15th to 30th.

During the pre-departure orientation, I received explanations on intercultural understanding, what to bring, and crisis management, as well as attending an information session hosted by the University of Waikato Japan Office, ensuring I was fully prepared for my trip. Once there, I took English classes every day and, through daily interactions with my host family, I was able to become accustomed to life and culture in New Zealand, which further increased my motivation to learn English.

Here are some comments from training participants.

Third-year student Faculty of Intercultural Japanese Studies
Through this short-term training program in New Zealand, I've become less intimidated by speaking English. Before the program, I felt nervous and anxious about speaking English, and I was embarrassed about making mistakes. However, actually living there, I realized that even if my English isn't perfect, if I try my best to communicate what I want to say, I can get my message across. Experiencing the joy of communicating with people using English was one of the biggest lessons I learned from this program. Not only did it improve my English skills, but actually living abroad gave me the courage to try using English myself, which was a valuable experience. From now on, I want to actively learn English, without fear of making mistakes, and make the most of this experience.

Second-year student, Faculty of Health and Nutrition
Due to my major, I didn't study English much at university, and this was my first time studying abroad, so I was anxious until I arrived. However, when I arrived at my host family's house, they took me shopping and we ate dinner together, and all my anxieties disappeared at once. Every day I went to school, spent time with friends after school, and spent evenings with my host family. On weekends, I went out with my host family to places like caves, waterfalls, and the beach. Since it was an unfamiliar life in a foreign country, there were many things I didn't understand, but I learned a lot by asking questions instead of leaving things unresolved. My two weeks in New Zealand went by so quickly and it was so much fun. I wished I could have stayed longer.

(Source: Global Center)