AY2017 of Interns

Short Report 1 (from Bangkok, Thailand, A. MATSUMOTO)

(2 Aug., 2017, Internship at United Nations ESCAP/アジア太平洋経済社会委員会)

Today was my first day of my internship. I arrived at UNESCAP this morning by a shuttle provided by the apartment. After going through the security and obtaining a temporary pass, I stepped inside of the UN building. It was much bigger than I expected. Then, I met my supervisor and the colleagues in the Environment and Development Division. I was quite nervous at first, but everyone was so nice and gave me a warm welcome. I was assigned a few tasks that are due next Monday.

For next few days, I will be working on some policy brief papers to review and revise them. The topic is quite interesting, though I am far from an expert on that field. Nevertheless, I am excited to have this opportunity to gain knowledge on unfamiliar matters, and hopefully provide opinions with fresh eyes.

(Pictures:ESCAP Entrance and Cafeteria)

Short Report 2 (from Bangkok, Thailand, A. MATSUMOTO)

(15 Aug., 2017, Internship at United Nations ESCAP/アジア太平洋経済社会委員会)

My second week at UNESCAP was a fruitful one. There was a bi-weekly sectional team meeting on Tuesday. I gave my self-introduction as it was my first time to participate. I became more familiar with my colleagues and the projects that they work on, and I feel more comfortable in the office. I suppose having quantitative skills is appreciated in UN because right after I spoke of my interest in econometrics and impact evaluation, I was offered to join several important projects. My colleagues told me that having these knowledge and skills provides me high competency. I am very happy to find out what I studied at IDEC is valued, and even more happy to be able to apply these skills here. I cannot thank enough to my professors. My supervisor will be back from travel next week, and I hope to provide some more interesting reports in the coming week.

Short Report 3 (from Bangkok, Thailand, A. MATSUMOTO)

(23 Aug., 2017, Internship at United Nations ESCAP/アジア太平洋経済社会委員会)

This is my third week report for my internship at UNESCAP, Thailand.
This week went by very quickly, possibly because I was not feeling well most of the time. I believe that’s something I ate, or my body is just not used to all the spices used in Thai food. Fortunately for me, there is a health clinic inside UNESCAP and I was able to get check-up.
The doctor told me it is very common for travelers to have this symptom in their 2nd or 3rd week in Thailand. I got medicines and recovered within a few days. Now I feel perfectly fine.

Job-wise, I was introduced to a new task which is organization and coordination of an expert group meeting with UN Habitat. The main topic is urbanization and the implementation of New Urban Agenda within Asia and Pacific region. It will be an interesting opportunity to learn and experience the UN work on promoting cooperation among sectors and governments.

(Pictures:The medicines (they were free and even had the UN logo!) and my desk)

Short Report 4 (from Bangkok, Thailand, A. MATSUMOTO)

(28 Aug., 2017, Internship at United Nations ESCAP/アジア太平洋経済社会委員会)

This is my fourth week report for my internship at UNESCAP, Thailand. I already completed my fourth week here, which means I have made it to almost half way of my internship period. It is astounding how quickly it felt.

I worked on a number of assignments this week. I believe the tasks I am handling now are more deeply connected to the core functions of the organization compared to the first few weeks of my internship now that I am used to working here. I try my best to deliver quality outcome earlier than the given duration, and I believe such kind of working ethics is very much appreciated here. Through these tasks, I have expanded my knowledge of global policies and UN missions on several environmental issues.

Alongside with UN tasks, I am also working on my research about Arsenic pollution on Cambodia drinking water. I have been trying to connect with a few contacts in Cambodia ministries and organizations for my fieldwork in October. It is not progressing as smoothly as I want it to be, so my focus for next few weeks will be on this.
The pictures are taken in a UN conference room and Ayuthaya historical site (1 and a half hour from Bangkok).

Short Report 5 (from Bangkok, Thailand, A. MATSUMOTO)

(4 Sep., 2017, Internship at United Nations ESCAP/アジア太平洋経済社会委員会)

This is my fifth week report for my internship at UNESCAP, Thailand. (5 of 9)
I spent most of this week with a series meetings and job hand-over for Expert Partners Forum jointly conducted with UN Habitat. The ESCAP focal point consultant is leaving the job as of end of August, and we had a farewell team lunch to congratulate her career promotion. Until her replacement arrives in October, I will be in charge of coordinating this event under the team’s supervision. I am suddenly tasked with much responsibility, but I believe this is a great opportunity to exhibit my skills and learn quickly from the job. As it is often said, when you push the boundaries of your comfort zone, you realize the sharpest learning curve.

The last Friday was a holiday in Thailand. I enjoyed the 3 days weekend on the beach at an island south of Bangkok with my family. I am fully re-charged now and ready to complete the remaining half of the internship with best of my effort.

(Pictures:Entrance and Beach)

Short Report 6 (from Bangkok, Thailand, A. MATSUMOTO)

(12 Sep., 2017,  Internship at United Nations ESCAP/アジア太平洋経済社会委員会)

This is my sixth week report for my internship at UNESCAP, Thailand. (6 of 9)
This week had been extremely busy, yet fruitful. The first Asia-Pacific Ministerial Summit on the Environment took place in UNESCAP EDD team, jointly organized by UN Environment (UNEP) under the theme “towards a resource efficient and pollution free Asia-Pacific.” The representatives from ministry of environment in Asia-Pacific region got together and discussed and exchanged ideas.

It’s one of the largest events organized by the division in a year, and every single member of the office worked hard to achieve the successful outcome. I contributed as a note-taker in several sessions of the conference and as a reception correspondent.

It was definitely a unique experience to participate in such inter-governmental conference, only possible in United Nations body. I witnessed the value being created through international dialogues, and was happy to see the countries’ engagement towards environmental challenges.

(Pictures:Conference(L), Notetaking(C), EDD Team(R))

Short Report 7 (from Bangkok, Thailand, A. MATSUMOTO)

(26 Sep., 2017,  Internship at United Nations ESCAP/アジア太平洋経済社会委員会)

This is my seventh to eighth week report for my internship at UNESCAP, Thailand. (7,8 of 9)
I have been working on several publications on water and sanitation strategies for Kathmandu valley in Nepal in past few weeks. I researched the background information and related literature to be included in the proposal paper and drafted the contents. The focus is mainly wastewater treatment and fecal sludge management. It is quite interesting material that let me see the problem in big picture and then narrow down to proposed solution and methodologies. 

(Pictures: UNESCAP Logo and Flags)

This is my 5th weekly report from UNNATI, India. Don’t worry I’m alive.

 

I restarted working in Ahmedabad office. This week it was busy days, not as an intern but as a volunteer PC consultant. I had to manage some PCs that need treatment because Official PC Repairer in Ahmedabad don’t have enough skills to repair.

This weekend I have holiday season of Diwali, the festival of hindu. But I was recommended not to go outside by Japan embassy and MOFA. I rest of myself and go to Kutch office again from 23 to 25 Oct.

I’m having a great experience in India.

 

Next weekly report may be late due to communication restriction of Indian SIM card .

(Pictures: Cafeteria and START Program Students)

I cannot forget to mention that I was blessed with the opportunities to meet some great people this week. First of all, I met HU undergraduate students studying in Thailand with START program. They were visiting UNESCAP for a joint session with Thammasat University (Thailand) and Stenden University (the Netherlands). It was great to witness the young generation of HU family being immersed with global environment. Then, I also met a few IDEC alumni working in ESCAP Strategy and Programme Management divison and UNEP Thailand. I was thrilled to hear their career achievements and very much encouraged. It’s great to know we have such great “senpai-s”. 

Now I am wrapping up my stay in UNESCAP, and preparing for my fieldwork in Cambodia. I would like to share the outcomes in the upcoming reports.

Short Report 8 (from Bangkok, Thailand, A. MATSUMOTO)

(7 Oct., 2017, Internship at United Nations ESCAP/アジア太平洋経済社会委員会)

This is my last week report for my internship at UNESCAP, Thailand.(9 of 9)
I completed my internship with UNESCAP. It’s been amazing 2 months filled with learnings and eye-opening experiences. I appreciate everyone who was involved to make this experience possible. I thank my professors, UNESCAP, G.ecbo office, HU fund, other interns, and my family. I will take my learnings from this experience and apply them to contribute positive influence to the world.

From October 1st to 6th, I visited Phnom Penh, Cambodia for my master’s research with a focus on Arsenic pollution in drinking water. With a support of Ministry of Rural Development and Provincial Department of Rural Development, I was able to collect project information and details and conducted interviews on residents of households in affected area. And IDEC graduate, Mr. Ros Bandos who is currently in Ministry of Environment, took such a tremendous role in organizing and coordinating my visit. I cannot thank enough, and wish to return all of these favors back to Cambodia.

Short Report 9(from Cheongju-si, Korea, K. IKENO)

(18 Aug., 2017, Internship at Korea National University of Education/韓国教員大学校)

I reached KNUE on the evening of August 9th. From August 10th, I gave a presentation about my research to members of the laboratory and created posters for the conference this weekend. Also, I had a meeting with my teacher on my research.
I'm going to interview Korean teachers and high school high school students today and tomorrow. Next week, I will start analyzing the interview.

Short Report 10 (from Cheongju-si, Korea, K. IKENO)

(26 Aug., 2017, Internship at Korea National University of Education/韓国教員大学校)

This is my second weekly report for my internship at Korea national University of Education.
On Saturday, August 19th, I presented a poster at the conference of  Korea Field Education Society. I got more questions than expected and got advice. I could not answer the question well and I felt frustrating. I have to study English more. After the poster presentation, I interviewed five students of Sejong Science Arts Gifted High School who also came to poster presentations.
On August 24th I actually visited Sejong Science Arts Gifted High School and interviewed science teachers. I had trouble of losing my wallet, but someone handed in my wallet. I'm planning to analyze the interview and organize it.
Korean food is delicious but very spicy for me. I miss Japanese food.

Short Report 11 (from Birpara, India, A. OSHIMA)

(17 Aug., 2017, Internship at Non-profit Corporation IMAGINUS/特定非営利活動法人IMAGINUS)

As the first week of internship, I observed projects which IMAGINUS carrying on and discuss study tour which will be held in next month. Based on the previous research by another internship student, I observed circumstance of street children around railway station, and met stuffs of Indian NGO. We had some discussion for current and future projects. 
Although IMAGINUS planned to set up 2 study tours in Darjeeling, IMAGINUS decided to conduct it only for Japanese university students in Birpara due to security problems of current Darjeeling. I attended the meeting, and we discussed the schedule and activities. Participants of the study tour will have an activity to create new social business. They will find problems, analyze it, and create solutions.
I took PCM course in IDEC which is like the activity of participants, that’s why I could be a good helper for them.

I also celebrated Independence Day, on August 15th. There were a lot of national flag in the town. 14th and 15th are national holiday, so I enjoyed little bit expensive meals.

Short Report 12 (from Birpara, India, A. OSHIMA)

(24 Aug., 2017, Internship at Non-profit Corporation IMAGINUS/特定非営利活動法人IMAGINUS)

I started own research from this week. Firstly, I met staffs of a local organization which tackles on human trafficking issues. I could get very important information from them.
Secondly, I collected individual data from 5 women who came to mehndi (henna tattoo) class held in a village.
Thirdly, I visited 2 tea gardens which already closed and I interviewed 3 families as individual data collection. It was difficult for me, because this is the first time for me to interview for local people. I think my way of interview was not natural conversation. Some people were afraid of us because they never met foreigners. I have to reconsider it till next interview on September.
Also, I joined discussion of the study tour. I stayed the hotel which we will use for the study tour, and went to border area of Bhutan and valley where we can BBQ. It was nice place to feel nature, that’s why we will go there to refresh during the study tour. 

(Pictures:Border area of Bhutan(Water in the river coming from Bhutan and mountains are in Bhutan territory) and Valley)

Short Report 13 (from Birpara, India, A. OSHIMA)

(1 Sep., 2017, Internship at Non-profit Corporation IMAGINUS/特定非営利活動法人IMAGINUS)

In this week, we were busy to prepare the IMAGINUS study tour India 2017, and I corrected reports of participants. This report is a kind of homework before coming to India offered by director of IMAGINUS. I read everything and commented it. It was exciting for me because every participants has well considered opinions for social issues in India. For my survey, I’m carrying it on the slum.
My hypothesis is the community has risk of human trafficking, such as migration or commitment of argents (sometimes argents are brokers), but they never go outside of the community and argents never come. I wonder why the slum community is not be a target of human trafficking.
I will compare tea garden community and slum community though deeper interview and analysis. 

Next week, study tour will start. I’m really looking forward to joining. In this study tour, participants will create social businesses. I will do my best to support them, as the same time, I could learn a lot of things with them though activities.

(Pictures:daily meal, Veg Momo and Thali)

Short Report 14 (from Birpara, India, A. OSHIMA)

(7 Sep., 2017, Internship at Non-profit Corporation IMAGINUS/特定非営利活動法人IMAGINUS)

In this week, we visited local NGO which is focusing on issues of tea gardens in Dooars area. Every night we discuss issues in the tea garden. I was inspired with their opinions and innovative ideas to solve problems ex-tea plantation workers have. I’m looking forward to seeing and hearing ideas of social business from them.
I finished my survey in the slum. I realized that community development can be one criteria to identify vulnerability of human trafficking. Compare to slum and tea gardens, people in slum well know about human trafficking, that’s why they do not want to migrate to work, and never trust argents who introduce jobs for people in slum. On the other hand, tea gardens, a lot of ex-tea plantation workers followed argents and sometimes they were trafficked due to lack of awareness of human trafficking risk.
In next week, based on this week’s survey, I will focus on relationship between community development and awareness of human trafficking risk for my survey.

(Pictures:Gandrapara tea garden and Seminar from the director of IMAGINUS) 

Short Report 15 (from Birpara, India, A. OSHIMA)

(14 Sep., 2017, Internship at Non-profit Corporation IMAGINUS/特定非営利活動法人IMAGINUS)

Participants continued to investigate their survey in the closed tea garden, and I conducted my survey there. Fortunately, we could visit the tea factory which running by the open tea garden. It was very excited for me because it was first time to see the process making tea.
On Sunday, we went to the riverside (this river comes from Bhutan), and did BBQ to refresh. After that, we visited local manager’s house. His mother and grandmother cooked tasty meal. It was memorable day for everyone.

On Wednesday, we had final presentation with invited local NGO staffs. We shared ideas and discussed it. Through the study tour, I’m really motivated in my research. I could share my opinions, point of views, and ideas to solve the problems with participants this time. Even though some of them are not familiar with international development and cooperation, they had great opinions.

(Pictures: Factory of Singhania Tea Estate, Interview, and BBQ)

Short Report 16 (from Birpara, India, A. OSHIMA)

(21 Sep., 2017, Internship at Non-profit Corporation IMAGINUS/特定非営利活動法人IMAGINUS)

Recent few days, people started to prepare festival called “Durga Puja.” I can see many motifs in the town and at the night, people are singing, dancing, and playing drums. It is surely noisy but makes me fun. On Sep. 15th, the study tour was finished. Even though it was less than 2 weeks, I learned many things from participants. Also, I could make good relationship among translators. One of them will be a translator and guide for my individual survey in next week.
The plan was little bit changed. I will conduct my survey in tea gardens from Sept. 24th. I’m not sure that I could interview in the festival time, but I will do my best. At the same time, I want to enjoy the festival. I really love tea garden areas, that’s why I want to enjoy it in Birpara, not in Delhi, not in Kolkata, not in Mumbai.

(Pictures: Preparation for Durga Puja (festival) and Bundapani TG Primary School)

Short Report 17 (from Birpara, India, A. OSHIMA)

(28 Sep., 2017, Internship at Non-profit Corporation IMAGINUS/特定非営利活動法人IMAGINUS)

This was the final week of the intern.
It was valuable, wonderful, unforgettable time for me. From 24th, I conducted my survey. Form 26th, we have 10 days off due to the festival, Durga Puja. This is the biggest festival in West Bengal State. In the festival time, everyone buy new dress and put on makeup. I bought a Sali and enjoyed it.

An Indian man told me, “This is Birpara, this is not India.” He means India has many faces, but I saw only one of them. If I go to other part of India, I could see different people, culture, and atmosphere. I’m interested in other part of India, such as Kolkata, Kerala, Mumbai, and Delhi. I promise to come back here someday, and I would like to say thank you from bottom of my heart to IMAGINUS staff, intern students, G/i-ECBO staff, professor, for giving me such a wonderful opportunity. I will make the best use of experiences here to my research. 

(Pictures: With Interviewees and Goddess Durga)

Short Report 18 (from Tallahassee, U.S. , Soe Ko Ko)

(17 Aug., 2017, Internship at Florida State University/フロリダ州立大学)

I safely landed and arrived to my current base, Tallahassee City at 8:50 local time. I feel a little bit tried because the journey from Hiroshima to here was too long that was two transits and 18 hours on plane.
The house I rent is very nice with high speed wifi, kitchen, nice garden and so on. It is very closed to FSU, my host university, so I can go not only by bus that's free service to university but also walking. But, I need to learn how to take the bus to school. For SIM, I will try to buy it by tomorrow and also I have to buy my personal stuffs and some foods.

My internship program will start at coming Monday, August 21th. The city, Tallahassee is very quiet and small one. The weather is fine in current.

(Pictures:University logo at Tallahassee International Airport)

Short Report 19 (from Tallahassee, U.S. , Soe Ko Ko)

(26 Aug., 2017, Internship at Florida State University/フロリダ州立大学)

This is my first weekly report for my internship at Florida State University. First, I went to FSU at early morning of Monday. The day was not school open day, so there was no school bus, so I had to walk to school about 1 hour, it was too hot.

I arrived at school on 10:00 am and I had a meeting with Prof. Ella Mae and her TAs for her courses. They discussed and arranged the course, teaching method, assessment, grading and so on. After that, I went to meet with another professor, Dr. Lisa Liseno to welcome and discuss my internship plan. They are very kind-heart and helpful. FSU campus is so huge and very beautiful. Tuesday was off for me.

At Wednesday and Thursday, I attend the main internship program called PIE Teaching Conferences and TA orientation. It was the very interesting conference for the students who want to be a teacher at future. The professors and staffs explained so many topics about 20 presentations for two days that was related to TA and some students shared their experiences. I got a lot of knowledge, experiences and new idea from this conference. 
The school bus was started by Wednesday, it was free to FSU and took only 7 minutes from my home stay. The weather is sunny every day and cools at night. For the meal, I cook myself at my home for breakfast and dinner.

(Pictures:PIE conference)

Short Report 20 (from Tallahassee, U.S. , Soe Ko Ko)

(2 Sep, 2017, Internship at Florida State University/フロリダ州立大学)

This is my second weekly report for my internship at Florida State University, Tallahassee, U.S.
I spent my weekend with my friends from Myanmar at Edward Ball Wakulla Springs that is 30 minutes by car from the city. It is natural spring with crystal water and the start of the Wakulla river. I took a boat cruise for sightseeing around the river. And then I also went for shopping for foods.

I went to FAMU-FSU College of Engineering on Tuesday and Thursday, it took 3 minutes by bus from my home. I met with Prof. Kimberly Hunter and she took me to her Lab and introduced with her TAs. So, I got a chance to talk with her TAs who were Ph.D. students from Indonesia and China and the Indonesian guy explained about his responsibility for his TA’s work, and I made observation how he explained the experiments to the students.

(Pictures:Wakulla River(L), Library(C), FAMU_FSU inside(R))

Short Report 21 (from Tallahassee, U.S. , Soe Ko Ko)

(10 Sep., 2017, Internship at Florida State University/フロリダ州立大学)

I went to FAMU-FSU College of Engineering on Wednesday to make the class observation by invitation of Dr. Kimberly Hunter. Her class size was big with 48 students and she taught MATLAB programming. In this course, TA’s responsibility is to save and check the solutions and results of the home-works, problems, and assignments and then assessment the grade for the students so called “Grader TA”. TA doesn't need to come to the classroom and he or she must submit the final grade for the students to the professor.
Between engineering and education, TA's role is totally different and the grading system also differs from each college. 

Although there was a teaching workshop on Friday, it was canceled. The school was closed through September 12 because of Hurricane Irma that is moving to Florida State and one of the strongest hurricanes in Atlantic Ocean. I had no experience with hurricane and scared. But I already kept water, can and dry foods. I hope I can save from this hurricane.

(Pictures:Class observation at FSU School of Teacher Ecudation and FSU College of Engineering ) 

Short Report 22 (from Tallahassee, U.S. , Soe Ko Ko)

(18 Sep., 2017, Internship at Florida State University/フロリダ州立大学)

Here is my fourth weekly report.
The school was closed through Friday due to Hurricane Irma. While passing Irma to Tallahassee, there was no power at home about 7 hours and the wind was about 70 mph. Irma became weak and changed as a tropical storm and moved to Georgia State. But the state government announced to stay safety at home.
The school will schedule to resume and the classes will start at Monday(September 18) regularly. The main library called Strozier library operated with reduced hours from Wednesday, but there was no bus service to school.
For the whole week, I spent my time by reading and exploring the city by bus that was only $3 for whole day.

(Pictures:The FAMU-FSU College of Engineering and Tallahassee Downtown)

Short Report 23 (from Tallahassee, U.S. , Soe Ko Ko)

(24 Sep., 2017, Internship at Florida State University/フロリダ州立大学)

I went to night bazaar with house owner.

(Pictures: Night bazaar and  Lab@ College of Engineering)

Short Report 24 (from Tallahassee, U.S. , Phyu Phyu Zaw)

(27 Aug., 2017, Internship at Florida State University/フロリダ州立大学)

I attended TA Orientation and PIE Teaching Conference of Florida State University.
On August 23, there were 14 sections with different academicians presenting and discussing on several areas of topics such as how to maintain a professional relation classroom relations, time management, grading concerns and practices of FSU, and basics of teaching with technology at FSU.
On August 24, there were 11 sections presenting and discussing on topics like classroom management, creating syllabi, student assessment, classroom diversity, encouraging critical thinking in classrooms etc.
The conference was very interesting and I think I learned something about the American classroom culture and how they use technology to enhance the effectiveness of a lecture.

I got a chance to visit the Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park near Tallahassee with the help of Myanmar community here.
I hope all my fellow interns are having a great time in their respective institutions.

Short Report 25 (from Tallahassee, U.S. , Phyu Phyu Zaw)

(7 Sep., 2017, Internship at Florida State University/フロリダ州立大学)

Last week, I got a chance to attend the Canvas Training for faculty members in the College of Education. The purpose of training is to help instructors to reduce the time wasted on technical trouble during the transitional period. I feel like I am very lucky and my internship is very beneficial to witness the alteration from one instructional site to another in a really big university like FSU.
I enjoyed my second week here in FSU as I attained certain knowledge and experience which is valuable enough. Best of luck to all my internship fellows.

Short Report 26 (from Tallahassee, U.S. , Phyu Phyu Zaw)

(10 Sep., 2017, Internship at Florida State University/フロリダ州立大学)

Here comes my third weekly report from Florida State University.
It was a really busy and fascinating week for me. I got access to the College of Business in FSU this week. I had a chance to sit in Dr. William Bolender's  Selling and Sales Management undergraduate class in the Marketing Department, Dr. Jack Fiorito's  Data Analysis seminar for the doctoral students and Dr. Gerald Ferris's Social Influence seminar for the doctoral students in the Human Resource Management Department.
Moreover, Ella-Mae Daniel from the College of Education also allowed me to observe her TA's class, namely Introduction to Education, on Thursday. 
A lot of residents in Tallahassee are busy preparing for the coming hurricane. I also has to made some preparation to be safe in case the natural disaster comes in the city although I hope nothing extreme would happen here in Tallahassee.

Short Report 27 (from Tallahassee, U.S. , Phyu Phyu Zaw)

(18 Sep., 2017, Internship at Florida State University/フロリダ州立大学)

Florida State University has been closed since 8th September due to Hurricane Irma. Therefore, I got a chance to wander around Tallahassee for sightseeing. I found an interesting place called Bicycle House which is a non-profit community development organization under the name of Build-a-Bike Program. It helps individuals who need a bike to build one himself or herself from the donated bicycle parts with the help of an expert volunteer within an hour or so. The warehouse has 30 volunteers 600-700 bicycle parts to choose from.

As Hiroshima University has to face the problem of coping with the bikes disposed of by the former students every year, I feel like if there is a non-profit program like Bicycle House in Tallahassee, it may be beneficial for both campus and the newcomer students as well.

Short Report 28 (from Tallahassee, U.S. , Phyu Phyu Zaw)

(26 Sep., 2017, Internship at Florida State University/フロリダ州立大学)

This is the fifth weekly report from Florida State University.
This week also, I got the chance to attend the Impression Management seminar of Professor Dr. Ferris with his doctoral students in the College of Business. Dr. Ferris and I also discussed about my research in our individual meeting.
Moreover, I shadowed Professor Ella-Mae's TA class of Introduction to Education for undergraduate students in the College of Education. That class was an interesting one in which students interact with their instructor enthusiastically on the topic they discussed.
On 21th September, I attended first day of PIE Coffee Hours and Teaching Workshop Series in Honor's Way Fellow House of FSU. The workshop is about how to prepare for teaching the sensitive topics in class, especially for the teaching assistants. 

Short Report 29 (from Bandung, Indonesia, A. SOHARA)

(16 Sep., 2017, Internship at Indonesia University of Education/インドネシア教育大学)

This week, I gave a lecture about history of Japanese education.
Some students of Japanese course joined shuuji(習字)club, I joined it too.
I'm going to have a good rest this weekend.

Short Report 30 (from Bandung, Indonesia, A. SOHARA)

(24 Sep., 2017, Internship at Indonesia University of Education/インドネシア教育大学)

This week, I gave lectures in classes, and introduced japanese food culture, particularly Aichi pref. and Haccho miso(八丁味噌)
UPI students interested in this theme. Some students told me that I want to go to Japan more and more.
It made me so happy. 

Short Report 31 (from Bandung, Indonesia, A. SOHARA)

(30 Sep., 2017, Internship at Indonesia University of Education/インドネシア教育大学)

Hello, everyone. Last week, I lectureed in class, and joined student's workshop of Japanese culture.
I taught origami(Japanese traditional paper crafts) and kendama(the “Ken” (handle) and the “Tama” (ball), which is connected by a string). We made cranes. Through this internship, I experienced various things.
I returnned to Japan, this morning.

Short Report 32 (from Ahmedabad, INDIA : M. ITO)

 (20, Sept. 2017, Internship at UNNATI)

This is my internship weekly report from UNNATI, India. I arrived at Ahmedabad, India at 14th Sep. and started my internship on 15th. I met my supervisor, Mr. Binoy, and discussed about my internship plan about the coming 7 weeks. On 22, Sept. I leave Ahmedabad and go to a branch office.

I met some Japanese during wandering Ahmedabad and talked with them. I hope I will have good encounters.

Masato Ito (Mr.) 

Short Report 33 (from Ahmedabad, INDIA : M. ITO)

 (27, Sept. 2017, Internship at UNNATI)

This is my second weekly report from UNNATI, India.

I’m working in branch office of UNNATI located in kutch district, Gujarat state.

I sometimes go field or attend a conference as work.

I’m having a great experience in India.

Masato Ito (Mr.) 

Short Report 34 (from Ahmedabad, INDIA : M. ITO)

 (5, Oct. 2017, Internship at UNNATI)

This is my 3rd weekly report from UNNATI, India.

I’m working in branch office of UNNATI located in kutch district, Gujarat state. This week I attended a conference about women and child education in Gujarat State. I visited a local school and looked their class.  I’m having a great experience in India.

 

Short Report 35 (from Ahmedabad, INDIA : M. ITO)

 (13, Oct. 2017, Internship at UNNATI)

This is my 4th weekly report from UNNATI, India.

Last night I left UNNATI branch office and arrived at UNNATI main office in Ahmedabad and start working today..

I had a very good experience in Kutch district and feel both of satisfaction and a little sadness.

I’m having a great experience in India.

Short Report 36 (from Ahmedabad, INDIA : M. ITO)

 (22, Oct. 2017, Internship at UNNATI)

This is my 5th weekly report from UNNATI, India. Don’t worry I’m alive.

I restarted working in Ahmedabad office. This week it was busy days, not as an intern but as a volunteer PC consultant. I had to manage some PCs that need treatment because Official PC Repairer in Ahmedabad don’t have enough skills to repair.

This weekend I have holiday season of Diwali, the festival of hindu. But I was recommended not to go outside by Japan embassy and MOFA. I rest of myself and go to Kutch office again from 23 to 25 Oct.

I’m having a great experience in India.

Next weekly report may be late due to communication restriction of Indian SIM card .

Short Report 37 (from Ahmedabad, INDIA : M. ITO)

 (27, Oct. 2017, Internship at UNNATI)

This is my 6th weekly report from UNNATI, India.

Don’t worry I’m alive.

This week I visited branch office in Kutch district again from 23 to 25 Oct to help a questionnaire survey there. And today I attended a conference of Training Program on Community Based Approaches to Flood Management on GIDM. Now I’m working hard at UNNATI in both of an intern and a PC consultant. I have only 3 weekdays to work here. I’m having a great experience in India. Next report will be final weekly report and will be sent after final work finished.

Short Report 38 (from Ahmedabad, INDIA : M. ITO)

(31, Oct. 2017, Internship at UNNATI)

This is last weekly report from UNNATI, India. Don’t worry I’m alive.

Now I received the certificate of internship completion from intern director.

Tonight I am going to leave Ahmedabad and fly to Japan.

Unfortunately, my pc is not working because of battery malfunction.

Therefore, I will send an arrival message from my phone.

I had very good experiences in India.

Short Report 39 (from Phnom Penh, Cambodia, F. HE)

(20 Oct., 2017, Internship at Cambodian Mekong University/カンボジアメコン大学日本語ビジネス学科)

I departed from Fukuoka and arrived in Cambodia at the evening on Oct.18th. The first day in Cambodian Mekong University, students and teachers gave me an impressive welcome party. We made dinner together, and it was a little bit spicy and sweet. I was moved by their sweet pure heart. Also, I was surprised to the street which have so many stall(屋台), which one symbol of Japanese culture I used to beleive.
From tomorrow 21th, I will start to teach Japanese according to the contact and research Cambodian aging society.

Short Report 40 (from Phnom Penh, Cambodia, F. HE)

(30 Oct., 2017, Internship at Cambodian Mekong University/カンボジアメコン大学日本語ビジネス学科)

During last week, schedule was a little busy but I felt very satisfied. I have been discussing my teaching schedule with Mekong University teachers. 
To share the skills for fast-learning Japanese with students, I have organized a study group including 6 students. We will focus on studying words of N2 level (Japanese-Language Proficiency Test), and plan to finish the study target until the 30th November. Skills of reading, writing and discussion will be taught in this plan. 
I also conducted home interview on last Saturday. I interviewed some old people with the assistance of Cambodian Mekong University students as shown in pictures. Most of those aged persons I interviewed are living in rural area, and only accompanied by their grandchildren. Although some elderly are living with their children, they have to take care of themselves with little money. Also, I learned that the population of Cambodian elderly, who need medical care, is increasing rapidly. Moreover, I have collected some articles which analyzed the problem of elderly in Cambodia.  

Short Report 41 (from Phnom Penh, Cambodia, F. HE)

(7 Nov., 2017, Internship at Cambodian Mekong University/カンボジアメコン大学日本語ビジネス学科)

This week, I taught Japanese language lessons (level: N2), and communicated with students of Cambodian MeKong University. Meanwhile, I also tried to research on the aging society in Cambodia.
The Water Festival, the traditional holiday in Cambodia, was held last week. There were many interesting events. The most popular event was Boating Competition.All the boats that came from local pagoda in Cambodia joined into the Boating Competition in Phnom Penh. I was surprised by the energetic participants who rowed continuously for three days. The Cambodian people were very enthusiastic and friendly. I enjoyed the Water Festival with my four students. We went to Samdach Sothearos Blvd road and enjoyed Cambodian traditional food. YaTai together.
What’s more, I also watched the Boating Competition and fireworks with Cambodian MeKong University teachers. After the Boating Competiton, There were about ten boats with kinds of symbols designed in the Khmer language. 

(Picture:Boating competition)

Short Report 42 (from Phnom Penh, Cambodia, F. HE)

(14 Nov., 2017, Internship at Cambodian Mekong University/カンボジアメコン大学日本語ビジネス学科)

I continued teaching students Japanese N2 words. It reminded me of my campus life in China. I would sometimes have lost my confidence and escaped from learning Japanese. So, I would like to continue encouraging them and study with them until the end of my internship. I also participated in the Japanese film festival and watched Japanese movies for free with Cambodian MeKong University teachers.
Moreover, I had an exciting journey with these teachers. We went from Phnom Penh to Siem Reab, and spent 2 days on sight-seeing in Siem Reab, one of the famous World Heritage sites. Also, I had a few interviews with elderly people who participated in the Buddhist festival in the rural pagoda of Siem Reab with the help of local people. They always go to pagoda praying for their happiness with the belief of getting happiness in the next metempsychosis.

Short Report 43 (from Phnom Penh, Cambodia, F. HE)

(23 Nov., 2017, Internship at Cambodian Mekong University/カンボジアメコン大学日本語ビジネス学科)

This week, I taught Japanese language lessons focusing on Japanese N2, and communicated with students of Cambodian MeKong University. Meanwhile, I also met the head of HelpAge Cambodia which is the only NGO making effort to support the elderly in Cambodia. Moreover, I enjoyed by myself an impressive and unforgettable trip in Vietnam.
In order to develop the spirit of perseverance of students, I encouraged them to keep going on the training of recitation of JLPT N2 words.Until now, we studied three chapters (about 400 words), and students had improved significantly. At first, some students spent about 60 minutes on remembering one section. After training, however, they just need 30 minutes; and they still kept going on recitation training now. 
Next week, I will continue my lessons. Meanwhile, I am going to start the formal curriculums and Yoga project with students. Moreover, I will figure out what the future National Aging Policy of Cambodia in accordance with the data I have, and make connections between Japanese companies and HelpAge Cambodia.

Short Report 44 (from Phnom Penh, Cambodia, F. HE)

(1 Dec., 2017, Internship at Cambodian Mekong University/カンボジアメコン大学日本語ビジネス学科)

In this week, I conducted an exam practice focusing on JLTP N3. Also, I had five classes in order to improve the students’ command of Japanese language. 
Most of the students in Cambodian MeKong University are going to participate in JLPT N3 in December 3rd. In order to prepare them for their test, I conducted an exam practice of JLPT N3 using the actual examination of 2015. 
The result showed that the reading part was more difficult for the Cambodian students than the Japanese and Chinese counterparts because of the Kanji; Cambodian students have to spend much more time on reading since they don’t remember as much Kanji as the Japanese and Chinese.The students also practiced listening on JLPT N3 (sophomore students) and JLPT N2 (junior / senior). 
 I started a yoga program from November 27th, which starts at 18:00 every day. At first, there were 6 Cambodian students who were unable to be calm down and perceive themselves. However, after telling them how to take smooth breathe deeply and correctly, and how to focus on their heart, they got better. Finally, the number of the students practicing yoga has increased from 6 to 15. As a result, I changed the practicing place and increased one more yoga class. 

Short Report 45 (from Fort Lauderdale, , U.S. , J. BAE)

(1 Nov., 2017, Internship at Florida Atlantic University/フロリダアトランティック大学)

I safely arrived in Florida last Tuesday, 24 Oct and visited FAU on 25 Oct. I met Professor Richard Shusterman and his assistants and Ph.D. students. Currently, I am working on preparation for my presentation at the conference hold next week. Beside my personal work, I started working on the translation from English to Japanese and Korean. This translation is for the subtitles for the 3 episodes documentary about Dr. Shusterman and his theory, somaesthetics which is one of my main research topics. 
I participated in the seminar of Dr. Shusterman. On this week was about Ralph Waldo Emerson, American philosopher, and writer. As my future research will cover link between Emerson and Dr. Shusterman's work, it was a fruitful time to know on what part of Emerson's work he focuses on.  
For the next week, I will have time to discuss my dissertation with Dr. Shusterman. And keep working on my own work and translations.

Short Report 46 (from Fort Lauderdale, , U.S. , J. BAE)

(10 Nov., 2017, Internship at Florida Atlantic University/フロリダアトランティック大学)

This is my second report from Florida Atlantic University. 
This week, I spent my lots of times to prepare for the presentation for the conference. 11/4 and 11/5 was the conference day. I made my presentation on 4th afternoon. My topic was "Somaesthetics in the Early History of Korea: Educational Scope of Hwarang". I got 4 questions about my presentation.
Besides my presentation, there were other wonderful presents. Mostly was about physical activities related to body-mind issues such as yoga, zen meditation, Tibetan Buddhism practice etc., and their relation to philosophy and history, especially eastern.
On the weekend, I visited a beautiful beach called Lake Worth beach near from my staying place and enjoyed the sun. 

Short Report 47 (from Fort Lauderdale, , U.S. , J. BAE)

(17 Nov., 2017, Internship at Florida Atlantic University/フロリダアトランティック大学)

This is my third report from Florida Atlantic University. 
This week, besides my regular times in FAU, I visited a public middle school named "Odyssey Middle School". I luckily met Mrs. Hakhima Albritton who is a math teacher in the middle school and she kindly accepted my one-day-visit her school. 
Odyssey Middle School has about 800 students and it is "title 1" school which means it has many low-income students so it gets much funding from the federal government. School's system and rule in the USA vary from school.  
This school had rather a strict rule about students behavior. And they put many efforts on student's learning. Math classes which I observed, they used variable teaching method including traditional lecture method, "khan-academy" using computers, group works, and games. They had many small quizzes and homework which immediately recorded the grade of students. The computer software used to grade student was very subdivided. It seemed that teaching was more likely to manage. Students were less disciplined compared to Korea or Japan. However, they expressed their thoughts and inquiries more freely. 
 
Besides my school trip, I had regular seminars, a meeting, and working on the translation of the documentary video. 

Short Report 48 (from Fort Lauderdale, , U.S. , J. BAE)

(24 Nov., 2017, Internship at Florida Atlantic University/フロリダアトランティック大学)

This is my fourth and the last report from Florida Atlantic University. I am writing this report from Ft. Lauderdale airport waiting my flight back to Japan. 
This week, I had regular seminars on Monday and Tuesday. And I participated art workshop related to somaesthetics. Also I had meeting with Dr. Shusterman discussing my work. 
About workshop, I participated an art workshop held by an artist named Sharon Thieman. I met her during conference. She is doing her MFA at FAU and Dr. Shusterman is one of her committee.Her work is deeply inspired by Dr. Shusterman's theory, somaesthetics. The topic of this workshop was "The Power of Wrapping". Many students together produced artwork using hoops and fabrics. 
This was a part of social art practice. They engage together in this work with their body awareness. This work can be called social meditative art work, I could call. It was great experience to see how this theory is practiced.
During weekend, I made a trip to Everglades national park which is a vast swamp area in Florida. It's national third largest national park. I could see many wild animals including alligators and enjoy great nature. 

(Pictures: Top left: National park, Bottom left & Light: Workshop"The Power of Wrapping")

Short Report 49 (from Tallahassee, U.S. , Huang QIONG)

(17 Jan., 2018, Internship at Florida State University/フロリダ州立大学)

This is the first week report from FSU.
We departed on the 10th in the early morning and I was so excited because this is my first time to go to the United States. However, the flight was so long from Hiroshima to Tokyo then Atlanta then finally to Tallahassee, Florida which took us 26 hours on the way.
On 12th of January, we met prof. Ella-Mae Daniel as planed on the early date and discussed about the classes we can attend. She warmly welcomed us and helped to find some classes we are interested and contacted the TAs. After meeting, we attended the orientation of PIE program which is a very important part of this internship.

Short Report 50 (from Tallahassee, U.S. , Huang QIONG)

(31 Jan., 2018, Internship at Florida State University/フロリダ州立大学)

This week (1.22-28) we had a fruitful week. First of all, we shadowed Professor Ella-Mae’s class ‘introduction to education’. It talked about ‘education reform in United States’ and ‘becoming a professional’ which is very interesting to me.
We also attended the research seminar held by Dr Lisa who is the director of the graduate school PIE training program. There were two PhD students presenting their research which is a great opportunity for us to learn something. Especially when the student from Finance presented, I was so inspired. The audience asked many questions but I think these questions are in return to help her find out what are the problems with her current research and where to go next step.

Short Report 51 (from Tallahassee, U.S. , Huang QIONG)

(9 Feb., 2018, Internship at Florida State University/フロリダ州立大学)

Firstly, I attended ECO 2023 ‘Principle of Microeconomics’ classes which is very useful to me. The classroom is so huge that can accommodates more than 500 students. The first class I attended in which 400 some students showed up. How did I know it? Actually the teacher use online attendance checking system by giving a quiz plus a code. 

Short Report 52 (from Tallahassee, U.S. , Huang QIONG)

(14 Feb., 2018, Internship at Florida State University/フロリダ州立大学)

This week (2.5-2.11) was fairly a plain week. On the 7th, I attended Dr Lisa Liseno’s workshop about how to create a portfolio. The workshop was quite interesting. Dr Lisa first talked about the theme of this workshop and some contents to inspire us to think such as ‘how you think learning occurs’. Then we had group activities and discussion about the handouts which are about the criteria for grading. This is really a fantastic way in which students can exchange ideas.
Besides the microeconomic classes, I also shadowed a listening class in CIES (Centre of Intensive English Study). These classes are designed to help those who just arrive in USA or foreigner who wants to learn English better. 

Also as another student who came from HU was about to leave, Dr Lisa took us out for lunch and taught us a lot about American culture. We also discussed about philosophy and she showed how much she enjoyed last trip to Japan. We really enjoyed this gathering and thanks to Dr Lisa who is so kind and considerable. 

Short Report 53 (from Tallahassee, U.S. , Lilan CHEN)

(23 Jan., 2018, Internship at Florida State University/フロリダ州立大学)

There was a meeting, which named COFFEE, COOKIES & COMMUNI-TEA CHAT with Dean Riley who is the dean of the graduate school on 18th. He introduced the project ‘The FSU GradWorld Project’, which is designed to showing student brilliance to the world by taking videos, and in order to attract more attention from the public, Dr. Riley gathered a lot of advises from TAs about what kind of actions should be taken with these videos. 
Dr. Lisa arranged us to meet Dr. Maria Mendoza who is quite familiar with the system of international TA. On 19th, we introduced the HIRODAI TA system to her and asked some her some questions such as qualification, training and assessment, then she pointed out several different points in FSU TA system by comparing with HIRODAI TA and solved our query. 

Short Report 54 (from Tallahassee, U.S. , Lilan CHEN)

(11 Feb., 2018, Internship at Florida State University/フロリダ州立大学)

This is the forth week report from Lilan CHEN, and also the last report.
On 31st, I made an appointment with Dr.Shouping Hu. He teaches graduate-level courses in Higher Education Finance, International Perspectives in Higher Education, Research on College Students, and Student Success in College. Since my specialty is Higher Education, we made a 2-hour meeting to discuss the higher education system and challenges in China, America and Japan.
Thanks to Dr.shouping Hu, I get to know a lot about the the situation of higher education in America, and also he introduced some journals, articles and famous authors to me which will help me a lot with my research. 
On 2nd and 9th, I participated in the International Coffee Hour which was hold in the GLOBE.

Short Report 55 (from Chitwan, Nepal , Chen Yan)

(5 Mar., 2018, Internship at FORWARD)

In order to know more about the “building community enterprise” program, my director doctor Ujjal help me design a questionnaire and made use of 2 day’s weekend to stay at villages to conduct survey. We spent 2 days and 1 night to stay at village and visited 2 community centers and around 15 famers. I think I got better understanding of the program.

Except for the fieldwork and survey, I was invited to join colleague’s wedding. It was fun and a good experience to feel different culture. And since Mar.1 is the national holiday for “holli”, office also held a small ceremony to celebrate it. The “happy holli” is a festival to pray for happiness. Nepalese dance and thrw colorful power to people to celebrate.

Short Report 56 (from Chitwan, Nepal , Chen Yan)

(19 Mar., 2018, Internship at FORWARD)

The third week was busy and productive. 
1) Kaneko sensei visited FORWARD Nepal and support me to conduct survey at agriculture and forest university.
2) I made a presentation to report what I did in the last 3 weeks.
3) FORWARD Nepal held Annual General meeting and picnic activity.


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