On May 9th (Mon) in the Reception Hall on the second floor of the Faculty Club, a study abroad experience debriefing session was held. This session gives former exchange students who experienced study abroad (overseas training) through Hiroshima University’s various overseas study programs the opportunity to report on their experiences. On this day, 73 faculty members and students interested in overseas studies participated.

This was the tenth debriefing session. Students who took part in one of the following Hiroshima University overseas study programs reported on their experiences: the HUSA (Hiroshima University Study Abroad) Program, the AIMS-HU Program,  the G.ecbo Global Internship Program, the START Program, Short-term Language Training Program at Fu Jen Catholic University (Taiwan) and the Tobitate! Ryugaku JAPAN: Japan Representative Program (a public-private joint overseas study support system). Four of the seven presentations were made in English, and the students had the opportunity to show the results of their language training abroad.

These presentations centered on the students’ motivation for studying abroad, the program outlines and research contents, the total costs and personal transformation, and the changes and discoveries made after having studied abroad. One of the students who had taken part in the AIMS-HU Program recounted his stay with humor: “I was able to have a lot of precious experiences such as lessons taught in English and club activities, etc. You, too, should by all means challenge yourself to study abroad.” Another student, who went to America through the 29th START Program made her presentation in English: “I felt that I achieved my goals: during my study abroad I made an active effort to communicate with local students in English! I will continue my English studies, and I want to use these experiences for my next steps in life.”

At the end of the session, Prof. Nishitani, the Vice President of HU, spoke words of encouragement to the students while also reflecting on his own experiences studying abroad during his days as a student. He concluded by saying, “I wish everyone will actively take the opportunities to challenge themselves in INU Student Seminars and many other study programs held on and off the campus, as well as various international exchanges or overseas programs”.

The participants expressed their thoughts: “Some presentations were made in foreign languages and this made it easier for me to understand the extent of their accomplishments”; “I am so glad to have had the opportunity to hear directly from former international students”; and “I found it useful to have heard about both the pros and the cons of studying abroad”.

The “Debriefing Session on Former Exchange Students’ Overseas Experiences” is held twice a year, in spring and autumn. The next debriefing session will be in October 2016.

This session was held as part of the annual event “Study Abroad WEEK” held from May 9, Monday through May 13, Friday. During Study Abroad WEEK, there are various events for those who are considering embarking on a study abroad in the near future such as study abroad/overseas training information sessions or exchange meetings with former international students. Additionally, a photo exhibition is held in the spiral staircase of the Student Plaza titled “Art Gallery Connecting to the World – the Charm of Overseas Study in Photos”. Those who participated in this year’s Study Abroad WEEK, or those who missed out this time, we look forward to seeing you again at next year's event!

Presentations held by the participants of START programs

Comprehensive comments by Vice President Nishitani

【inquiries】
International Exchange Group,
Hiroshima University
Tel. 082-424-4346
E-mail: kokusai-ryugaku(AT)office.hiroshima-u.ac.jp
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