I really enjoyed the events where we were able to meet with Japanese people and converse with them.
Which events or activities did you find the most satisfying and why?
I really enjoyed the events where we were able to meet with Japanese people and converse with them. These occasions were fun, and allowed the students to practice Japanese in a real setting.
Which co-curriculum classes did you find most satisfying?
The cooking class was very fun, and I really enjoyed the chance to learn from actual Japanese students.
What were your goals in attending the KCP program?
To enjoy my time in Japan, to learn Japanese well enough that I could converse somewhat with native Japanese people, and to learn more about the country and culture as a whole.
Why did you select this program?
I selected this program because it seemed to really fit well with my goals for coming to Japan. I knew I wanted to study abroad in Japan and learn Japanese, and KCP fit both of those goals perfectly. It was reasonably priced, with a schedule that fit into my summer, so it ended up working out great.
What were the most productive and interesting aspects of the program for you? The least interesting and productive?
I think the most productive and interesting aspects of the program were the interactions with my classmates and teachers. All of us come from different parts of the world, and, as such, in my class we would have 4 different languages being thrown around daily. Because Japanese was our only common language, it offered valuable chances for me to practice my Japanese and get to know my classmates better.
What activities or materials did you find most helpful (e.g., pair work, drill practice, tests, small group sessions, textbooks, games)?
Honestly, the best part of the material was the homework. Tests and games are two extremes that don't offer too much to the learning environment. Tests are too stressful and only seem to be there for the sake of a grade. Similarly, games are often times too fun/funny for students to actively learn. Pair work offered a good chance at practicing what we'd just learned, but, more often than not, they end up in conversations between the students rather than practice. The homework forced us to make sure we were right. It's less stressful than tests, and, as much as students hate it, it helps them to make sure they're right in what they've learned.
Any suggestions for improving class activities or materials?
Not particularly. KCP is a great program because of what it has currently. Great teachers, with a good curriculum, allows for a superior learning opportunity and is the main reason why KCP's students are great at Japanese.
Where did you live?
Ikebukuro Dorms
Were you pleased with the general living arrangements? Anything you especially liked? Any problems you experienced?
I very much like my room here at the Ikebukuro Dormitory. One of the most important reasons why I chose to come to Japan was to learn about Japan's culture and to experience the lifestyle that a Native Japanese person lives. My dorm is not perfect; it is not a 5 star hotel that caters to my every need. That is exactly why I believe that the dorming experience is valuable. The room is small, it has some plumbing issues, the walls are thin, and the room can be stuffy during the hot summer nights. These are all issues that real Japanese people face here in Japan, and I think that the dorm's problems are one of the biggest reasons why I feel like this trip has been so good.
Any further thoughts or tips for those considering the program or new KCP students?
If you're still debating about whether or not to come to Japan to study abroad, I say do it. The Japanese lifestyle and culture is unlike anything you've ever experienced before, and KCP is the right way to experience it. Armed with a great curriculum that teaches you useful Japanese and even greater teachers that genuinely care about you and do their best to help you out no matter the situation, KCP allows students to live life very similarly to that of a real Japanese person. I do not regret making the decision to come to Japan through KCP, and I only wish I had more time here. Make the most out of every moment, and come here with an open mind and an open heart.
Any other comments or suggestions?
Honestly, the 事務所先生 are the best. Every day after class, I look forward to talking to them and getting to know them better. They need a raise for how genuine they are in caring for me and getting to know me better. In America, even one of these teachers could inspire countless students to do better than they even imagined they could do. KCP has so many great aspects to it, but the greatest aspect is your employees. They are the reason I consider this to be one of the best summers of my life.
