- Asia University
- Study abroad/international exchange
- Voices of students who have studied abroad
- Testimonials/Study Abroad Outcomes (AUAP)
Testimonials/Study Abroad Outcomes (AUAP)
AUAP
Asia University America Program
AUAP
Asia University America Program
SHIMBO Hikari
Destination: Central Washington University
I decided to join AUAP because I love English. When I was in my first year of high school, I started studying English seriously, even though it was just for entrance exams. Despite having a hard time learning it, I developed a deep interest in this language, and after that, I started studying English as a communication tool rather than classroom English. As I attended English conversation classes, I realized that I wanted to experience life overseas and study abroad, and I had made studying abroad one of my goals during my university life, so when AUAP recruitment started, I was definitely interested. I decided to participate because I had a strong desire to go to America.
I was blessed with many friends there and had more opportunities to speak English outside of class than I expected. After waking up every day, I have a light conversation with my roommate, head to class, have lunch with local friends, do my assignments and homework after school, talk with my local friends again, and then have a little chat with my roommate before going to bed. I lived a life of speaking. My roommate's English was very fast, so at first I couldn't understand her at all and felt depressed. However, I had a strong feeling that I didn't want to waste the five months I had spent studying abroad, so I continued the conversation. I asked other friends I made to teach me how to spell words I didn't understand during conversations, took notes of everything, and was conscious of using them the next time I had an opportunity to use them. Also, I always tried to imitate the pronunciation without being shy. As I talked with them every day, I got used to their English, and there were many times when I found myself talking for long periods of time, which gave me confidence in speaking English.
In class, I tried to actively speak and ask questions every hour. At first, I wasn't confident in my English and thought about grammar and other issues before raising my hand, but as I got used to it, I was soon able to speak English. Also, I had the opportunity to give a presentation five times as part of the class, and when the preparation for this presentation overlapped with assignments given in other classes, I spent a lot of time at my desk, and it felt like the exam period was all over again. . When assignments kept coming up every time, it was sometimes difficult and I cut back on my sleep time, but thanks to the support of my AUAP friends and CWU friends and teachers, I was able to find joy even in those difficult days. is completed.
My current goals after experiencing AUAP are to further improve my TOEIC score and continue to use English in Japan. My TOEIC score increased by about 150 points between before I went to study abroad and after I came back, but I'm never satisfied and want to use this experience to gain confidence and aim for even higher scores. Also, regarding the use of English in Japan, I will continue to study English in order to further expand my horizons that I have gained by participating in AUAP, and in order not to waste those five months. I would like to continue to keep in touch with my friends at CWU. In the future, I would like to find a job where I can use English. Therefore, I would like to make every effort to make the most of the possibilities that have expanded through this study abroad experience. Based on my goal of studying abroad, ``Don't be shy,'' I want to continue to have the same challenging spirit that I had while studying abroad.
I was blessed with many friends there and had more opportunities to speak English outside of class than I expected. After waking up every day, I have a light conversation with my roommate, head to class, have lunch with local friends, do my assignments and homework after school, talk with my local friends again, and then have a little chat with my roommate before going to bed. I lived a life of speaking. My roommate's English was very fast, so at first I couldn't understand her at all and felt depressed. However, I had a strong feeling that I didn't want to waste the five months I had spent studying abroad, so I continued the conversation. I asked other friends I made to teach me how to spell words I didn't understand during conversations, took notes of everything, and was conscious of using them the next time I had an opportunity to use them. Also, I always tried to imitate the pronunciation without being shy. As I talked with them every day, I got used to their English, and there were many times when I found myself talking for long periods of time, which gave me confidence in speaking English.
In class, I tried to actively speak and ask questions every hour. At first, I wasn't confident in my English and thought about grammar and other issues before raising my hand, but as I got used to it, I was soon able to speak English. Also, I had the opportunity to give a presentation five times as part of the class, and when the preparation for this presentation overlapped with assignments given in other classes, I spent a lot of time at my desk, and it felt like the exam period was all over again. . When assignments kept coming up every time, it was sometimes difficult and I cut back on my sleep time, but thanks to the support of my AUAP friends and CWU friends and teachers, I was able to find joy even in those difficult days. is completed.
My current goals after experiencing AUAP are to further improve my TOEIC score and continue to use English in Japan. My TOEIC score increased by about 150 points between before I went to study abroad and after I came back, but I'm never satisfied and want to use this experience to gain confidence and aim for even higher scores. Also, regarding the use of English in Japan, I will continue to study English in order to further expand my horizons that I have gained by participating in AUAP, and in order not to waste those five months. I would like to continue to keep in touch with my friends at CWU. In the future, I would like to find a job where I can use English. Therefore, I would like to make every effort to make the most of the possibilities that have expanded through this study abroad experience. Based on my goal of studying abroad, ``Don't be shy,'' I want to continue to have the same challenging spirit that I had while studying abroad.
KURIHARA Keigo
Destination: Eastern Washington University
<Reason for participating in study abroad>
I participated in a short-term language training program when I was in the second year of middle school and first year of high school. At that time, we each took English conversation classes while staying at a homestay, but I couldn't speak English as well as I wanted to, and perhaps because I was a shy person, I found it difficult to communicate with the local people. I had the bad experience of losing it. I felt very frustrated about this, and I wanted to overcome my shyness even if just a little and try speaking English with others again, so I joined AUAP.
<Local experience>
During my time at EWU, I was always conscious of incorporating English into my daily life so that I could speak English as actively as possible.
In my hometown, I basically took four classes a day between 10:00 and 15:00 with lunch in between, and after school I had free time to practice the TOEIC and spend time with friends, but I realized that classes alone were not enough. felt. Therefore, I tried to gain exposure to English by volunteering in Japanese classes that were free to participate, and by setting aside time to hang out and communicate with overseas friends I met there. When I was alone, I would review words and English expressions that I couldn't use or remember that day, and try to express them as best I could the next day. . As a result, I have had more opportunities to deepen my relationships with local friends and meet new friends, and I think my desire to communicate in English has increased. In particular, when I participated in volunteer activities at a basketball tournament held downtown, I was able to communicate with the local people more smoothly than when I first arrived in the United States.
Furthermore, during my summer vacation at EWU, I traveled to Beverly Hills in Los Angeles for about a week. The reason is that my uncle has been working as a hairdresser locally for about 15 years, and I wanted to ask him about life there and studying English conversation. In fact, when I was sightseeing in Los Angeles with my uncle, I had a hard time being able to communicate friendly with the locals, and I discovered that there were many things I was lacking, so I had to put in more effort than ever before. I was able to realize that.
<After studying abroad>
By participating in AUAP this time, I was able to take short-term language training and gain many experiences that I would not have been able to experience in Japan. The hurdles to communicating in English have become much lower than before because of the close friends I made in America and the challenges I faced there. Even after I return to Japan, I would like to continue working hard to improve my ability to speak English and maintain the spirit of trying new things.
I participated in a short-term language training program when I was in the second year of middle school and first year of high school. At that time, we each took English conversation classes while staying at a homestay, but I couldn't speak English as well as I wanted to, and perhaps because I was a shy person, I found it difficult to communicate with the local people. I had the bad experience of losing it. I felt very frustrated about this, and I wanted to overcome my shyness even if just a little and try speaking English with others again, so I joined AUAP.
<Local experience>
During my time at EWU, I was always conscious of incorporating English into my daily life so that I could speak English as actively as possible.
In my hometown, I basically took four classes a day between 10:00 and 15:00 with lunch in between, and after school I had free time to practice the TOEIC and spend time with friends, but I realized that classes alone were not enough. felt. Therefore, I tried to gain exposure to English by volunteering in Japanese classes that were free to participate, and by setting aside time to hang out and communicate with overseas friends I met there. When I was alone, I would review words and English expressions that I couldn't use or remember that day, and try to express them as best I could the next day. . As a result, I have had more opportunities to deepen my relationships with local friends and meet new friends, and I think my desire to communicate in English has increased. In particular, when I participated in volunteer activities at a basketball tournament held downtown, I was able to communicate with the local people more smoothly than when I first arrived in the United States.
Furthermore, during my summer vacation at EWU, I traveled to Beverly Hills in Los Angeles for about a week. The reason is that my uncle has been working as a hairdresser locally for about 15 years, and I wanted to ask him about life there and studying English conversation. In fact, when I was sightseeing in Los Angeles with my uncle, I had a hard time being able to communicate friendly with the locals, and I discovered that there were many things I was lacking, so I had to put in more effort than ever before. I was able to realize that.
<After studying abroad>
By participating in AUAP this time, I was able to take short-term language training and gain many experiences that I would not have been able to experience in Japan. The hurdles to communicating in English have become much lower than before because of the close friends I made in America and the challenges I faced there. Even after I return to Japan, I would like to continue working hard to improve my ability to speak English and maintain the spirit of trying new things.
KUDO Ayane
Destination: Central Washington University
I have been interested in studying abroad since high school. I've been learning dance since I was little, but when I dance, I mainly dance to Western music. From there, I started to be interested in English, and when I become a university student, I definitely want to go to America to study abroad! I came to have a dream.
Then, in the fall semester of my sophomore year, thanks to my parents and the university's study abroad program, I was able to actually leave for America. However, when I arrived safely at the airport in Seattle and went to the restroom, I immediately experienced culture shock. The top and bottom of bathroom doors in America were hollowed out for crime prevention, and they were completely exposed. It may be a small thing, but for me, who had never stepped out of Japan until this day, it was an event that allowed me to actually experience a different culture.
This was not the only culture shock. A few days after I arrived safely at CWU and moved into the dormitory, my roommate also arrived at the dormitory later. I can't speak English very well, but my roommate speaks to me in English. Japanese people tend to be relatively shy, so even if you meet a foreign International Student in Japan, it is unlikely that you will immediately speak to them in fast Japanese. This experience also made me feel that it was truly America. In addition to this, even if I meet any American other than my roommate, they will actively talk to me from the first time I meet them, and they will honestly tell me what they think. In this way, I feel that my English skills have improved thanks to CWU students talking to me without using International Student filter. I myself was influenced by this experience, and when I was studying abroad, I started talking to Korean International Student and became friends.
Also, even before I went to AUAP, I was interested in LGBTQ, which I learned in classes at Asia University. In Japan, it is rare to see same-sex couples, and I think there are many cases where the parties themselves hide their identity. However, in America, I often saw boys holding hands on dates, and vice versa (girls). Also, when I saw boys doing what they wanted to do on campus, such as expressing themselves with their nails and clothes, I thought it was really cool, and it's a common practice in Japan. I strongly thought that it would be nice to become a world.
Through AUAP, of course, I was able to learn English, but I think I was able to reassess my values and my way of being and grow. By going to an environment like America, where diversity is spreading, I realized that I cared too much about what others thought of me, and decided to live more freely as I wanted. I am so glad that I went to CWU through AUAP and was able to grow in various aspects other than English.
Then, in the fall semester of my sophomore year, thanks to my parents and the university's study abroad program, I was able to actually leave for America. However, when I arrived safely at the airport in Seattle and went to the restroom, I immediately experienced culture shock. The top and bottom of bathroom doors in America were hollowed out for crime prevention, and they were completely exposed. It may be a small thing, but for me, who had never stepped out of Japan until this day, it was an event that allowed me to actually experience a different culture.
This was not the only culture shock. A few days after I arrived safely at CWU and moved into the dormitory, my roommate also arrived at the dormitory later. I can't speak English very well, but my roommate speaks to me in English. Japanese people tend to be relatively shy, so even if you meet a foreign International Student in Japan, it is unlikely that you will immediately speak to them in fast Japanese. This experience also made me feel that it was truly America. In addition to this, even if I meet any American other than my roommate, they will actively talk to me from the first time I meet them, and they will honestly tell me what they think. In this way, I feel that my English skills have improved thanks to CWU students talking to me without using International Student filter. I myself was influenced by this experience, and when I was studying abroad, I started talking to Korean International Student and became friends.
Also, even before I went to AUAP, I was interested in LGBTQ, which I learned in classes at Asia University. In Japan, it is rare to see same-sex couples, and I think there are many cases where the parties themselves hide their identity. However, in America, I often saw boys holding hands on dates, and vice versa (girls). Also, when I saw boys doing what they wanted to do on campus, such as expressing themselves with their nails and clothes, I thought it was really cool, and it's a common practice in Japan. I strongly thought that it would be nice to become a world.
Through AUAP, of course, I was able to learn English, but I think I was able to reassess my values and my way of being and grow. By going to an environment like America, where diversity is spreading, I realized that I cared too much about what others thought of me, and decided to live more freely as I wanted. I am so glad that I went to CWU through AUAP and was able to grow in various aspects other than English.
UENO Yu
Destination: Eastern Washington University
"Why I participated in study abroad" When I was a high school student, I went to Australia on a school trip. At that time, I did a farm stay, but I couldn't speak English as well as I thought, so I just reacted. It was frustrating and I wanted to be able to speak English. Also, because it was my first overseas experience, I was very disappointed and inspired, and I strongly wanted to go abroad again. So, I took the entrance exam for Asia University to study abroad.
[Experience in the field] I had many valuable experiences in the United States through interactions with EWU Soccer Club, classmates, and roommates. Before I went to study abroad, I didn't have any close friends among the AUAP students. In fact, in America, I was able to make good friends in no time by taking proactive actions such as talking to people and participating in events.
In addition, classes on site basically end at 15:00, and students have free time after school. After school, I spent my time doing assignments given in class, practicing TOEIC, going downtown, Soccer Club practice, and hanging out with my friends. Among them, I especially tried to spend a lot of time with my friends, asking them to help me with my assignments, and hanging out with them after I finished.
I thought that spending time with local friends during my study abroad was the most important way to learn real-life English. As a result, there were days when I didn't speak a single word of Japanese, and I spent lunchtime with friends who volunteered for classes. By spending time with them, I was able to learn things like slang and how to play around town that they didn't teach me in class. Also, during the conversation, there were many words and expressions that I didn't know, but each time I tried to tell them that I didn't understand the word. And I tried to keep a note of the phrases and slang words that were explained at that time. As a result, my vocabulary has grown exponentially. I also learned how to play in America and how to socialize with friends. I feel that I was able to grow a lot by being able to spend a long time with my local friends.
“Future Goals After Studying Abroad” By participating in AUAP, I was able to gain many experiences that I could not have in Japan. Having close friends in the US made it much easier for me to return to the US. Also, being able to have daily conversations has made it easier for me to take on the next challenge abroad, and I am considering working holiday and studying abroad again. Furthermore, learning about American culture has changed my way of thinking about things, and I would like to use my English in job hunting. Through my experience at AUAP, I have more options for the future and broadened my goals for the future, so I would like to continue to actively take action to achieve those goals.
[Experience in the field] I had many valuable experiences in the United States through interactions with EWU Soccer Club, classmates, and roommates. Before I went to study abroad, I didn't have any close friends among the AUAP students. In fact, in America, I was able to make good friends in no time by taking proactive actions such as talking to people and participating in events.
In addition, classes on site basically end at 15:00, and students have free time after school. After school, I spent my time doing assignments given in class, practicing TOEIC, going downtown, Soccer Club practice, and hanging out with my friends. Among them, I especially tried to spend a lot of time with my friends, asking them to help me with my assignments, and hanging out with them after I finished.
I thought that spending time with local friends during my study abroad was the most important way to learn real-life English. As a result, there were days when I didn't speak a single word of Japanese, and I spent lunchtime with friends who volunteered for classes. By spending time with them, I was able to learn things like slang and how to play around town that they didn't teach me in class. Also, during the conversation, there were many words and expressions that I didn't know, but each time I tried to tell them that I didn't understand the word. And I tried to keep a note of the phrases and slang words that were explained at that time. As a result, my vocabulary has grown exponentially. I also learned how to play in America and how to socialize with friends. I feel that I was able to grow a lot by being able to spend a long time with my local friends.
“Future Goals After Studying Abroad” By participating in AUAP, I was able to gain many experiences that I could not have in Japan. Having close friends in the US made it much easier for me to return to the US. Also, being able to have daily conversations has made it easier for me to take on the next challenge abroad, and I am considering working holiday and studying abroad again. Furthermore, learning about American culture has changed my way of thinking about things, and I would like to use my English in job hunting. Through my experience at AUAP, I have more options for the future and broadened my goals for the future, so I would like to continue to actively take action to achieve those goals.
IZUMI Hayato
Destination: Western Washington University
AUAP experience
I participated in AUAP with the goal of "living abroad in the future", learning about the culture of American life and improving my language skills. It wasn't my first time to go abroad, but in five months, which was neither long nor short, I approached the day of my departure with great anticipation and anxiety. And the local staff welcomed us cheerfully. From that point on, I started living in English, and at times I was discouraged by my poor language skills. However, I was able to gradually get used to life in English thanks to the kind communication I received from the support staff for local students called IPA.
I understood that just attending classes would not improve my abilities. In class, I tried to take the initiative in giving presentations. And after the first month passed, there was an announcement of the award. I participated with the thought that "I will definitely win the award", but when my name was actually called, I was both happy and surprised. All the students participating in the AUAP gave their all and the classes were of a very high quality. It gave me confidence and helped me to participate more actively in many things.
WWU also holds many events, and I was able to build friendships with local students. I think that I acquired conversational skills in English by eating with local friends and playing basketball, which is my hobby. I was able to develop friendships through common hobbies, and because I was able to have conversations based on the knowledge I knew, I was able to naturally deepen my friendships, which I feel was directly connected to the improvement of my language skills. Furthermore, I was able to participate in a club of local students who are interested in Japan, and I had the opportunity to teach Japanese language and culture, and I was able to have many experiences.
At first, I couldn't communicate well and became shy, but as time passed, I became able to use English actively. Also, a friend told me, "You've grown remarkably compared to when you first started. Now you can communicate normally! Be confident!" I realized that I have grown a lot in the past five months, such as being appointed as a leader for returning to Japan.
These five months have been irreplaceable for me, and I have been able to grow while enjoying the support of my teachers, IPA, friends, parents, and many other people. have become. Right now, I am thinking about the future in my daily life while drawing a future map of living abroad in the future. There are many study abroad programs at Asia University, and there are many other options for challenging yourself overseas, such as the diplomatic mission dispatch system and overseas internships. I would like to actively take on challenges without fear of anything.
I understood that just attending classes would not improve my abilities. In class, I tried to take the initiative in giving presentations. And after the first month passed, there was an announcement of the award. I participated with the thought that "I will definitely win the award", but when my name was actually called, I was both happy and surprised. All the students participating in the AUAP gave their all and the classes were of a very high quality. It gave me confidence and helped me to participate more actively in many things.
WWU also holds many events, and I was able to build friendships with local students. I think that I acquired conversational skills in English by eating with local friends and playing basketball, which is my hobby. I was able to develop friendships through common hobbies, and because I was able to have conversations based on the knowledge I knew, I was able to naturally deepen my friendships, which I feel was directly connected to the improvement of my language skills. Furthermore, I was able to participate in a club of local students who are interested in Japan, and I had the opportunity to teach Japanese language and culture, and I was able to have many experiences.
At first, I couldn't communicate well and became shy, but as time passed, I became able to use English actively. Also, a friend told me, "You've grown remarkably compared to when you first started. Now you can communicate normally! Be confident!" I realized that I have grown a lot in the past five months, such as being appointed as a leader for returning to Japan.
These five months have been irreplaceable for me, and I have been able to grow while enjoying the support of my teachers, IPA, friends, parents, and many other people. have become. Right now, I am thinking about the future in my daily life while drawing a future map of living abroad in the future. There are many study abroad programs at Asia University, and there are many other options for challenging yourself overseas, such as the diplomatic mission dispatch system and overseas internships. I would like to actively take on challenges without fear of anything.
Maiko Sekiguchi
Destination: Central Washington University
"Why did you participate in AUAP?"
Before I went to study abroad, when I was in the United States, and after I returned to Japan, every time I answered this question, I would say, "Because I want to grow myself." In addition to improving my English skills, I decided to participate in AUAP because I wanted to fix my weaknesses, develop my strengths, and find out what I want to do in the future.
Of the three classes divided by level, I was in the class called "Section 4," which is the highest level. In American classes, if you don't have the initiative to raise your hand and state your own opinion, you won't even be evaluated. For me, who has weaknesses such as being unable to act on my own initiative and being nervous when standing in front of others and being unable to speak well, this class style was a difficult obstacle to overcome. However, it was a high-level class, and I was inspired by the positive attitude of my friends around me, and I thought I should do my best too. In the latter half of my study abroad in such an environment, I became able to raise my hand and speak out with confidence. Also, while doing many presentations, I became able to speak in front of people without being nervous. This is a big growth for me.
Before I went to study abroad, when I was in the United States, and after I returned to Japan, every time I answered this question, I would say, "Because I want to grow myself." In addition to improving my English skills, I decided to participate in AUAP because I wanted to fix my weaknesses, develop my strengths, and find out what I want to do in the future.
Of the three classes divided by level, I was in the class called "Section 4," which is the highest level. In American classes, if you don't have the initiative to raise your hand and state your own opinion, you won't even be evaluated. For me, who has weaknesses such as being unable to act on my own initiative and being nervous when standing in front of others and being unable to speak well, this class style was a difficult obstacle to overcome. However, it was a high-level class, and I was inspired by the positive attitude of my friends around me, and I thought I should do my best too. In the latter half of my study abroad in such an environment, I became able to raise my hand and speak out with confidence. Also, while doing many presentations, I became able to speak in front of people without being nervous. This is a big growth for me.
Furthermore, I thought that I would not be able to grow just by being active in class, so I challenged myself to be an ambassador. Ambassador is an award given to a person who participated in a certain number of activities and wrote and submitted reports for all activities. There were many activities such as participating in volunteer activities and giving presentations outside of class. It had nothing to do with the classes I usually take, so I had a lot of things to do and had a busy day. There were many times when I wanted to give up, but with the encouragement and support of the people around me, I was able to complete it until the end. When I received the award at the graduation ceremony, I felt the greatest sense of accomplishment during my five months of International Student. And I am proud that I have grown so much because I set my own goals and worked hard toward them without giving up.
The last five months have been a very intense time that I will never be able to experience again. So, even if I was asked, "What is your best memory at AUAP?" All the daily life spent surrounded by wonderful friends and IPA and AUAP staff are the best memories and treasures for me. I will continue to cherish it. And I am grateful that I was able to participate in AUAP, which gave me the opportunity to grow myself. thank you very much.
Achievements after Studying Abroad ～My Before After～
TANABE Rika
Destination: University of Utah
When I was in the United States, I set one goal.I think it's going to be the biggest goal remaining in my college life: “To transfer to another college abroad”.That's my goal.I know it's not easy to achieve.There are a lot of challenges which I must overcome, but I got a lot of confidence during AUAP.
I was the leader of the 1st University of Utah program students from Asia University. I didn't expect to be selected as a leader, but Rebecca, who was our homestay manager, selected me when we met her at the Salt Lake City airport. Of course, I was so surprised and flustered, but my friend Yuki said, “She's going to be a good leader.” with a big smile.
Then I forced myself to be a leader, and I set two goals to be a good leader: the first was to be a good example for next students, and the second was if someone seems like they are having a hard time speaking English, I 'll give them the chance to be friends with those who are not Japanese speakers. In the first session, those things were hard to try, because I couldn't adapt myself to the local environment perfectly at that time, and so I couldn' t make a lot of friends who were not Japanese speakers to introduce to other Asia University students.I was so disappointed.I asked myself many times why I couldn't.I thought I was trying my best to adapt myself to the environment.Sadly I needed to spend much energy for that than I thought, but I didn't know how I could do more.
When I had been troubled by this problem, I met some men. All of them were Taiwanese, and they had their quit jobs to study English. One of changed my life a lot. met for the first time, we felt we have similar personalities. We like joking, we are not shy, we're comfortable to speak English, and we have strong motivations to speak English, so we became friends immediately. We always hung out after school and talked about our dreams. I loved that time. He always said “I want to get a job in the US, because I feel America has a lot of possibilities which I can use to develop that I can't get in Taiwan. That's why I quit my job to come here to study English.I'm older than you.I have more risk and less time to spend time than you.It means you can still do everything.You can try everything you want.You still have enough time. Get knowledge from college to be a good global person, and don't focus on just passing exams.” I still remember those words clearly and they keep my motivation high. After I'd met him, I forced myself again to start studying more harder than the first session.Therefore, I got the student of the month award.Students who are most active and do their best can get this one.I made it!
Of course, my English improved a lot, but English is just a tool. because I know what the most important thing to do is while I am still a college student. It's not a part time job. It's not a student club. mine.Most of my friends who are Taiwanese are still in the US The time when I hung out with them was so wonderful.I really miss them.Especially the one who told me those great words.He gave me the chance to consider my future deeply it and changed me a lot.
Before I went to the US, I couldn't imagine my future clearly, but now I can. I want to work to prevent the extinction of animals and for developing countries in the future. That is the most interesting thing to me.In AUAP, we couldn't take regular classes, but in AUEP we can, so I want to go abroad again as an AUEP student.This is my first step to being closer to my big dream.I've already started progressing towards that.AUAP shook my life up.I was so glad to go there.
I was the leader of the 1st University of Utah program students from Asia University. I didn't expect to be selected as a leader, but Rebecca, who was our homestay manager, selected me when we met her at the Salt Lake City airport. Of course, I was so surprised and flustered, but my friend Yuki said, “She's going to be a good leader.” with a big smile.
Then I forced myself to be a leader, and I set two goals to be a good leader: the first was to be a good example for next students, and the second was if someone seems like they are having a hard time speaking English, I 'll give them the chance to be friends with those who are not Japanese speakers. In the first session, those things were hard to try, because I couldn't adapt myself to the local environment perfectly at that time, and so I couldn' t make a lot of friends who were not Japanese speakers to introduce to other Asia University students.I was so disappointed.I asked myself many times why I couldn't.I thought I was trying my best to adapt myself to the environment.Sadly I needed to spend much energy for that than I thought, but I didn't know how I could do more.
When I had been troubled by this problem, I met some men. All of them were Taiwanese, and they had their quit jobs to study English. One of changed my life a lot. met for the first time, we felt we have similar personalities. We like joking, we are not shy, we're comfortable to speak English, and we have strong motivations to speak English, so we became friends immediately. We always hung out after school and talked about our dreams. I loved that time. He always said “I want to get a job in the US, because I feel America has a lot of possibilities which I can use to develop that I can't get in Taiwan. That's why I quit my job to come here to study English.I'm older than you.I have more risk and less time to spend time than you.It means you can still do everything.You can try everything you want.You still have enough time. Get knowledge from college to be a good global person, and don't focus on just passing exams.” I still remember those words clearly and they keep my motivation high. After I'd met him, I forced myself again to start studying more harder than the first session.Therefore, I got the student of the month award.Students who are most active and do their best can get this one.I made it!
Of course, my English improved a lot, but English is just a tool. because I know what the most important thing to do is while I am still a college student. It's not a part time job. It's not a student club. mine.Most of my friends who are Taiwanese are still in the US The time when I hung out with them was so wonderful.I really miss them.Especially the one who told me those great words.He gave me the chance to consider my future deeply it and changed me a lot.
Before I went to the US, I couldn't imagine my future clearly, but now I can. I want to work to prevent the extinction of animals and for developing countries in the future. That is the most interesting thing to me.In AUAP, we couldn't take regular classes, but in AUEP we can, so I want to go abroad again as an AUEP student.This is my first step to being closer to my big dream.I've already started progressing towards that.AUAP shook my life up.I was so glad to go there.
<Japanese translation>
While studying abroad, I set one goal. My goal is to transfer to an overseas university, which is still one of my major goals while I am still in school. Achieving this is of course not easy. There are many challenges to overcome, but I gained a lot of confidence during AUAP.
I was the leader of the first AUAP University of Utah Dispatch Group. I never expected to be the leader, but the homestay manager, Rebecca, chose me as the leader when she met me at the Salt Lake City airport. When I was surprised and confused that I had been selected, a friend who studied abroad with me said with a smile, “She would be a good leader!”
In terms of becoming a leader, I set two goals to become a good leader. One is to be a good role model for the next students to study abroad, and the other is to have friends who don't speak English if they don't seem to be willing to speak English. give them the chance to be friends with In the first session, it was difficult just to adjust myself to the local environment, and of course it was difficult to make friends so that I could introduce my new friends to other APU students. It was very disappointing, and I kept asking myself why I couldn't do it. I tried to adapt myself to the environment, but things didn't go as planned, and I didn't know what to do.
At that time, I met International Student from Taiwan who quit his job and came to learn English. When we first met, we both liked jokes, weren't shy, were easy to talk to, had high motivation to speak English, and had similar personalities, so we quickly became friends. After class, we often went out together and talked about each other's dreams. That time was very meaningful to me. He often said, "I want to find a job in America. I think there are many opportunities for growth in America that I cannot get in Taiwan. So I quit my job and studied English here." I'm older than you, and I take more risks than you and I don't have the time, which means you can still do anything you want, you can try anything you want. Don't just focus on passing , study hard at university to become a wonderful international person." I still remember these words clearly, and they strongly support me. After meeting him, I worked harder than the first session. As a result, I was able to receive a monthly award, which is given only to students who worked hard the most.
Of course my English has improved a lot, but English is only a "tool". What is more important is the process of getting there. Now I can see Japan from a completely different perspective and I really like learning and gaining knowledge. I felt that the important thing that I can do when I am a student is not to spend time doing a part-time job, but to acquire knowledge and actively use it. I have made many friends who have the same goals as me. Most of my Taiwanese friends are still studying in America. The time I spent with them was irreplaceable for me. Above all, meeting him is special because he gave me words of encouragement that made me think deeply about my future and change me greatly.
Before I went to America to study, I was uncertain about my future. But not now. My dream is to prevent animal extinction and work for developing countries. I would like to learn how nature and humans can coexist. This is what I am most interested in right now. At AUAP, it was not possible to take local regular classes, but at AUEP, it will be possible. That's why I want to study abroad again as an AUEP student. The first step to a big dream. Your next new adventure is about to begin. I am grateful to AUAP for giving me the opportunity to move forward.
While studying abroad, I set one goal. My goal is to transfer to an overseas university, which is still one of my major goals while I am still in school. Achieving this is of course not easy. There are many challenges to overcome, but I gained a lot of confidence during AUAP.
I was the leader of the first AUAP University of Utah Dispatch Group. I never expected to be the leader, but the homestay manager, Rebecca, chose me as the leader when she met me at the Salt Lake City airport. When I was surprised and confused that I had been selected, a friend who studied abroad with me said with a smile, “She would be a good leader!”
In terms of becoming a leader, I set two goals to become a good leader. One is to be a good role model for the next students to study abroad, and the other is to have friends who don't speak English if they don't seem to be willing to speak English. give them the chance to be friends with In the first session, it was difficult just to adjust myself to the local environment, and of course it was difficult to make friends so that I could introduce my new friends to other APU students. It was very disappointing, and I kept asking myself why I couldn't do it. I tried to adapt myself to the environment, but things didn't go as planned, and I didn't know what to do.
At that time, I met International Student from Taiwan who quit his job and came to learn English. When we first met, we both liked jokes, weren't shy, were easy to talk to, had high motivation to speak English, and had similar personalities, so we quickly became friends. After class, we often went out together and talked about each other's dreams. That time was very meaningful to me. He often said, "I want to find a job in America. I think there are many opportunities for growth in America that I cannot get in Taiwan. So I quit my job and studied English here." I'm older than you, and I take more risks than you and I don't have the time, which means you can still do anything you want, you can try anything you want. Don't just focus on passing , study hard at university to become a wonderful international person." I still remember these words clearly, and they strongly support me. After meeting him, I worked harder than the first session. As a result, I was able to receive a monthly award, which is given only to students who worked hard the most.
Of course my English has improved a lot, but English is only a "tool". What is more important is the process of getting there. Now I can see Japan from a completely different perspective and I really like learning and gaining knowledge. I felt that the important thing that I can do when I am a student is not to spend time doing a part-time job, but to acquire knowledge and actively use it. I have made many friends who have the same goals as me. Most of my Taiwanese friends are still studying in America. The time I spent with them was irreplaceable for me. Above all, meeting him is special because he gave me words of encouragement that made me think deeply about my future and change me greatly.
Before I went to America to study, I was uncertain about my future. But not now. My dream is to prevent animal extinction and work for developing countries. I would like to learn how nature and humans can coexist. This is what I am most interested in right now. At AUAP, it was not possible to take local regular classes, but at AUEP, it will be possible. That's why I want to study abroad again as an AUEP student. The first step to a big dream. Your next new adventure is about to begin. I am grateful to AUAP for giving me the opportunity to move forward.
Achievements after Studying Abroad ～My Before After～
Ryuichi Kinoshita
Destination: San Diego State University
My study abroad in San Diego was a very valuable and meaningful five months that I have never experienced before.
The class at the language school ALI (San Diego State University American Language Institute), where I was dispatched, was a privileged environment unique to a university-affiliated language school, and I was able to learn English while interacting with people of various nationalities. Above all, I was very interested in the differences in values and customs of the Saudis, as well as the religious view of Islam that they worship. While I was studying abroad, there was Ramadan, and while my classmates were having lunch, I would sometimes see them talking outside the building. It was very stimulating to be able to come into contact with various values different from those of the Japanese, and to see and hear the cultures and customs of each of my classmates from other countries. The preconceived notions I had about that country were overthrown, and my perspective was greatly expanded.
The content of the class focused on improving communication skills, group work, and presentations. Having many opportunities to give presentations in English during class was a great practice for me to express my opinion in front of others. I can now speak I strongly feel that what I learned in the ALI class will definitely become my strength in the future.
Well, about two months after I started International Student, I started skateboarding. I never thought that this "skateboarding" would change my International Student so much. When I first started skateboarding, I went to the SDSU plaza with a friend and talked to the students who were skating there. I was able to interact with many native skateboarders about skateboarding using English, and I was able to improve my English skills. When I went to a skate park where many skateboarders gather, I was able to make friends with Japanese people who have lived there for a long time through skateboarding. Also, I was able to meet Americans who are learning Japanese, and skateboarding gave me the opportunity to meet people and interact with many people. If I hadn't started skateboarding, I don't think I would have had the opportunity to interact with people like this. The time spent skating with the people I met in San Diego was an experience that I could not learn at school, and I think it was the most enjoyable and fulfilling time of my International Student.
While I was studying abroad, I was able to expand my circle of exchanges and make many American friends by using the tool of skateboarding. Use this as a tool to deepen exchanges with local people. I am sure that you will have a very meaningful time during your study abroad. I will never forget the time I spent studying abroad, and I would like to expand my horizons in Japan, using skateboarding as well as new tools.
The class at the language school ALI (San Diego State University American Language Institute), where I was dispatched, was a privileged environment unique to a university-affiliated language school, and I was able to learn English while interacting with people of various nationalities. Above all, I was very interested in the differences in values and customs of the Saudis, as well as the religious view of Islam that they worship. While I was studying abroad, there was Ramadan, and while my classmates were having lunch, I would sometimes see them talking outside the building. It was very stimulating to be able to come into contact with various values different from those of the Japanese, and to see and hear the cultures and customs of each of my classmates from other countries. The preconceived notions I had about that country were overthrown, and my perspective was greatly expanded.
The content of the class focused on improving communication skills, group work, and presentations. Having many opportunities to give presentations in English during class was a great practice for me to express my opinion in front of others. I can now speak I strongly feel that what I learned in the ALI class will definitely become my strength in the future.
Well, about two months after I started International Student, I started skateboarding. I never thought that this "skateboarding" would change my International Student so much. When I first started skateboarding, I went to the SDSU plaza with a friend and talked to the students who were skating there. I was able to interact with many native skateboarders about skateboarding using English, and I was able to improve my English skills. When I went to a skate park where many skateboarders gather, I was able to make friends with Japanese people who have lived there for a long time through skateboarding. Also, I was able to meet Americans who are learning Japanese, and skateboarding gave me the opportunity to meet people and interact with many people. If I hadn't started skateboarding, I don't think I would have had the opportunity to interact with people like this. The time spent skating with the people I met in San Diego was an experience that I could not learn at school, and I think it was the most enjoyable and fulfilling time of my International Student.
While I was studying abroad, I was able to expand my circle of exchanges and make many American friends by using the tool of skateboarding. Use this as a tool to deepen exchanges with local people. I am sure that you will have a very meaningful time during your study abroad. I will never forget the time I spent studying abroad, and I would like to expand my horizons in Japan, using skateboarding as well as new tools.
Achievements after Studying Abroad ～My Before After～
Yuito Saeki
Destination: Western Washington University
My future dream has always been to get a job related to aviation, and now I'm aiming to be a pilot or a flight attendant. However, since I was not good at English, I ran away from it. "I want to be able to speak English for the future, I want to change myself who is running away from English," so I decided to study abroad.
Before studying abroad, I didn't know what to study, so I studied English conversation by watching English conversation videos such as You Tube. While I was worried about whether I would be able to make it through studying at this level, the time flew by and before I knew it, it was time to leave.
Shortly after arriving at the host university, I had an interview with a local staff member. I couldn't talk much with the teacher during the interview, so I was placed in an intermediate level class. At that time, I was frustrated that I couldn't speak well, so I decided to work as hard as I could in the advanced level class. During class, I spoke without fear of making mistakes, and as a result of actively working on assignments, tests, and awards, I was able to improve my English and win five awards. I was happy to receive the award, but more than that, at the closing ceremony, I received a letter from the teacher in charge, saying, "I've grown more than five months ago, and I was a dream student for my teacher." I felt that I had grown and became more confident in myself than I was before studying abroad.
Before studying abroad, I didn't know what to study, so I studied English conversation by watching English conversation videos such as You Tube. While I was worried about whether I would be able to make it through studying at this level, the time flew by and before I knew it, it was time to leave.
Shortly after arriving at the host university, I had an interview with a local staff member. I couldn't talk much with the teacher during the interview, so I was placed in an intermediate level class. At that time, I was frustrated that I couldn't speak well, so I decided to work as hard as I could in the advanced level class. During class, I spoke without fear of making mistakes, and as a result of actively working on assignments, tests, and awards, I was able to improve my English and win five awards. I was happy to receive the award, but more than that, at the closing ceremony, I received a letter from the teacher in charge, saying, "I've grown more than five months ago, and I was a dream student for my teacher." I felt that I had grown and became more confident in myself than I was before studying abroad.
The best thing about studying abroad is that I got to meet so many different people. We spent every day together with our roommates, and since each other's hobbies were sports, we were able to play various sports together, such as basketball, frisbee, and soccer, and made many memories together. Also, my roommate always told me that my English was good, which gave me confidence. We were so close roommates that we cried on the day we parted.
I found time to go to the gym, and before I knew it, I was able to make many friends through my hobby, basketball. I became friends with my fellow students from Asia University, and we did our homework together and studied together before exams. Even after returning to Japan, there were opportunities to get together, and my university life became more enjoyable.
I thought studying abroad was a way to study languages, but it wasn't the only way. Studying abroad allowed me to change myself. I am no longer afraid to make mistakes, and even if I am wrong, I am able to actively use my English to improve my problem-solving skills in English, which I could not do in Japan, and to maintain a high level of motivation. rice field. Thanks to teachers, IPA, friends, parents, and various other people, I was able to enjoy the five months. I believe that I will be able to make use of what I have experienced while studying abroad in my own life. That's why I'm aiming to study abroad for the second time while I'm still in school, setting AUEP (Exchange International Student Program) as a new goal.
I found time to go to the gym, and before I knew it, I was able to make many friends through my hobby, basketball. I became friends with my fellow students from Asia University, and we did our homework together and studied together before exams. Even after returning to Japan, there were opportunities to get together, and my university life became more enjoyable.
I thought studying abroad was a way to study languages, but it wasn't the only way. Studying abroad allowed me to change myself. I am no longer afraid to make mistakes, and even if I am wrong, I am able to actively use my English to improve my problem-solving skills in English, which I could not do in Japan, and to maintain a high level of motivation. rice field. Thanks to teachers, IPA, friends, parents, and various other people, I was able to enjoy the five months. I believe that I will be able to make use of what I have experienced while studying abroad in my own life. That's why I'm aiming to study abroad for the second time while I'm still in school, setting AUEP (Exchange International Student Program) as a new goal.
Achievements after Studying Abroad ～My Before After～
Okada Rei
Destination: Eastern Washington University
The reason I decided to participate in AUAP was because I always liked talking to people, and I wanted to talk to people from other countries in a language other than Japanese. Having said that, my English skills were almost non-existent, and I was just avoiding studying English. Under such circumstances, when I found a program called AUAP at Asia University, I thought that even if I didn't like studying English, I would study hard if I was to live abroad for five months, so I decided to study abroad at the same time as entering the university. .
My goal before studying abroad was to improve my TOEIC score by 100 points or more. However, since I originally disliked English, I thought it would be difficult to improve my score by more than 100 points. When I started International Student, at first I couldn't understand what the other person was saying even if they talked to me. However, since I basically liked talking, when I devoted myself to "using English", I gradually came to understand what the other person was saying, and before I knew it, I was speaking in English. But before I knew it, I was able to speak in writing. I still remember the joy I felt when I realized how much I had grown. I also achieved my goal of improving my TOEIC score by more than 100 points, and finished studying abroad. Studying abroad not only improved my English skills, but also changed my shy personality and improved my ability to act and cooperate, because I actively talked to people from overseas.
The best memory of my time studying abroad was joining an international soccer team and finishing second in a match. Originally, I wanted to play soccer while I was studying abroad, so I joined a local team and practiced soccer once a week. There, I was able to connect with people from various countries through soccer, and they taught me languages other than English, and I also taught Japanese. The members were a multinational team, with some from the United States, others from Brazil, Mexico, and Africa, so it was very stimulating for me to interact with the friends I made there. It was a very good experience for me that I was able to make various friends and precious memories during my five months of studying abroad.
The 5 months I spent at AUAP were the most intense in my life so far, and changed my future greatly. In addition to improving my English skills, it was a big growth for me that I changed my way of thinking about things and acquired the ability to take positive action. From now on, I would like to make use of the experience of studying abroad that I have gained, and I would like to see with my own eyes what I should do to make my dreams come true, and then take action.
My goal before studying abroad was to improve my TOEIC score by 100 points or more. However, since I originally disliked English, I thought it would be difficult to improve my score by more than 100 points. When I started International Student, at first I couldn't understand what the other person was saying even if they talked to me. However, since I basically liked talking, when I devoted myself to "using English", I gradually came to understand what the other person was saying, and before I knew it, I was speaking in English. But before I knew it, I was able to speak in writing. I still remember the joy I felt when I realized how much I had grown. I also achieved my goal of improving my TOEIC score by more than 100 points, and finished studying abroad. Studying abroad not only improved my English skills, but also changed my shy personality and improved my ability to act and cooperate, because I actively talked to people from overseas.
The best memory of my time studying abroad was joining an international soccer team and finishing second in a match. Originally, I wanted to play soccer while I was studying abroad, so I joined a local team and practiced soccer once a week. There, I was able to connect with people from various countries through soccer, and they taught me languages other than English, and I also taught Japanese. The members were a multinational team, with some from the United States, others from Brazil, Mexico, and Africa, so it was very stimulating for me to interact with the friends I made there. It was a very good experience for me that I was able to make various friends and precious memories during my five months of studying abroad.
The 5 months I spent at AUAP were the most intense in my life so far, and changed my future greatly. In addition to improving my English skills, it was a big growth for me that I changed my way of thinking about things and acquired the ability to take positive action. From now on, I would like to make use of the experience of studying abroad that I have gained, and I would like to see with my own eyes what I should do to make my dreams come true, and then take action.
Achievements after Studying Abroad ～My Before After～
<Updated July 20, 2023>