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The experience of doing guided meditation with a monk at Erinji Temple was something I probably would never have done without the KCP program, and it was a challenging, but I'm very glad I got to do it.

Molly from Summer Short 2019

Which events or activities did you find the most satisfying and why?

The bus trip to Yamanashi was very fun and informative, and it was a great way to see Japan outside of Tokyo. The experience of doing guided meditation with a monk at Erinji Temple was something I probably would never have done without the KCP program, and it was a challenging, but I'm very glad I got to do it. I also enjoyed the Sushi and Wagashi workshop a lot, and I will probably use that knowledge to make food for my family at home.

What were the most productive and interesting aspects of the program for you? The least interesting and productive?

I think the program did a great job of helping American students to adjust to life in Japan, as it is a bit of a shock. I really appreciated all of the extra instruction, and it helped me a lot. I loved being able to learn Japanese alongside all of the Chinese, Korean, and Malaysian students in my class, as it gave me an opportunity to befriend them and learn about their cultures when we otherwise wouldn't have had a common language. The connections I was able to make is one of the best aspects of the program for me.

What activities or materials did you find most helpful (e.g., pair work, drill practice, tests, small group sessions, textbooks, games)?

Pair work was probably among the most helpful, as it allowed me to practice my speaking without the added pressure of speaking in front of the class. It was also a great context for getting to know the non-English-speaking students in my class, as it was sometimes difficult to initiate conversation otherwise due to the language barrier.

Any suggestions for improving class activities or materials?

The homework was sometimes a little repetitive, just because for me, I learn best through my own study style, and the written homework wasn't always very helpful and could be very time-consuming, meaning less time for me to study the material.

Anything you especially liked in the living arrangements? Any problems you experienced?

My dorm was in a great location, just a few minutes from Ikebukuro Station, which was very convenient. It was also very nice to have a private room and bathroom, as well as a small cooking space.

What dorm did you live in or host family did you live with?

Ikebukuro Dorm

Any comments or tips for prospective/new KCP students?

I think it's important to go into the experience without too many expectations. It was all very new and interesting, and I had a great time, but I didn't know what to expect from the program and I think that probably meant I was happier.

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Past and present students share their thoughts and experiences on studying in Japan.

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Testimonials

I don’t think there was a single moment that wasn’t productive for me. There was something to learn from everything during my time in Japan. Thank you so much for this wonderful opportunity!

—Beatriz Gonon