Students Reconnect Online After Returning from Overseas Programs
Students Reconnect Online After Returning from Overseas Programs
2025.03.24 updateNews
Presenting Unique Cultural Experiences from Taiwan, Sri Lanka, and South Korea
On Monday, March 24, 2025, the Global Center at Okayama University of Science (OUS) hosted a virtual post-program orientation for students who had recently returned from short-term study abroad and exchange programs. Held via Zoom, the session brought together students who had traveled to Taiwan, Sri Lanka, and South Korea, each delivering a presentation about a meaningful experience from their time abroad. Presentations featured visual aids such as PowerPoint slides and photos.
The participants included three students who traveled to Taiwan—one of whom also visited Sri Lanka—and one student who completed a five-month exchange program in South Korea. Each student focused on a single impactful moment and addressed three key points: what happened, how it made them feel, and why they chose to share it. Presentations were approximately 5 to 10 minutes long.
One student who visited Taiwan shared how, despite language barriers, they were able to connect with local people by using tools like photos.
Another student described a moving visit to the 228 Peace Memorial Museum, where she read a letter written in Japanese by a political victim. “To prevent conflict and war, we need to start by understanding one another,” she reflected.
A third student spoke about how her naturally shy personality changed through daily interactions with locals. Before their departure, many Taiwanese students sent heartfelt letters and photos to the OUS participants, leaving a lasting impression.
Another student, who participated in both the Taiwan and Sri Lanka programs, highlighted the cultural and religious differences she observed—such as a shrine located inside a Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka. Comparing experiences across countries helped deepen their cross-cultural understanding and appreciation for diversity.
The student who studied in South Korea explained that, while she initially expected to learn primarily about Korean culture, she ended up interacting more with international students from around the world. This unexpected experience exposed her to a wide range of cultural and religious perspectives and underscored the importance of English for effective communication. She also reflected on how living in a non-Japanese environment improved her independence and problem-solving skills.
A staff member from the Global Center commented, “Through this orientation, students not only reflected on their learning experiences but also strengthened their ability to communicate those experiences to others. We look forward to continuing to support their growth as globally minded individuals.”
Presenting Unique Cultural Experiences from Taiwan, Sri Lanka, and South Korea
On Monday, March 24, 2025, the Global Center at Okayama University of Science (OUS) hosted a virtual post-program orientation for students who had recently returned from short-term study abroad and exchange programs. Held via Zoom, the session brought together students who had traveled to Taiwan, Sri Lanka, and South Korea, each delivering a presentation about a meaningful experience from their time abroad. Presentations featured visual aids such as PowerPoint slides and photos.
The participants included three students who traveled to Taiwan—one of whom also visited Sri Lanka—and one student who completed a five-month exchange program in South Korea. Each student focused on a single impactful moment and addressed three key points: what happened, how it made them feel, and why they chose to share it. Presentations were approximately 5 to 10 minutes long.
One student who visited Taiwan shared how, despite language barriers, they were able to connect with local people by using tools like photos.
Another student described a moving visit to the 228 Peace Memorial Museum, where she read a letter written in Japanese by a political victim. “To prevent conflict and war, we need to start by understanding one another,” she reflected.
A third student spoke about how her naturally shy personality changed through daily interactions with locals. Before their departure, many Taiwanese students sent heartfelt letters and photos to the OUS participants, leaving a lasting impression.
Another student, who participated in both the Taiwan and Sri Lanka programs, highlighted the cultural and religious differences she observed—such as a shrine located inside a Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka. Comparing experiences across countries helped deepen their cross-cultural understanding and appreciation for diversity.
The student who studied in South Korea explained that, while she initially expected to learn primarily about Korean culture, she ended up interacting more with international students from around the world. This unexpected experience exposed her to a wide range of cultural and religious perspectives and underscored the importance of English for effective communication. She also reflected on how living in a non-Japanese environment improved her independence and problem-solving skills.
A staff member from the Global Center commented, “Through this orientation, students not only reflected on their learning experiences but also strengthened their ability to communicate those experiences to others. We look forward to continuing to support their growth as globally minded individuals.”