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I highly recommend the program for those who are considering it.

May from Summer Short 2015

Which events or activities did you find the most satisfying and why?

The class trip to Yamanashi at the beginning of the program was very enjoyable. It provided an opportunity for the students to bond and appreciate the beauty that Japan has to offer. I would have loved another class trip later on in the program, although it is understandably very hard to coordinate with so many students.

Why did you select this program?

I selected the KCP language program because I wanted to immerse myself in Japanese culture. I wanted to improve my Japanese, and there are glowing reviews of the teachers at KCP. The final verdict was decided when I looked up how much the program costs, and I realized that the short term summer program is significantly more affordable than many other programs.

What activities or materials did you find most helpful (e.g., pair work, drill practice, tests, small group sessions, textbooks, games)?

I found that drill practice and games were the most helpful. Drill practice required students to truly understand the material through constantly memorization and utilization. It was especially useful when the teacher went around the class and asked each student to answer individually. Games were helpful because it sparked a friendly competitive spirit that also encourages students to know the material in order to win.

Were you pleased with the general living arrangements? Anything you especially liked? Any problems you experienced?

Overall, I was pleased with the general living arrangements. The rooms were spacious and included a bathroom and a mini fridge. The living quarters were very clean and comfortable. The Ueda-sans, as well as the other caretakers who worked in the dorm, were very accommodating. They deeply cared about all of our well-beings and always greeted us with a smile. The dorm managers arranged a welcome party when we arrived as well as a festival in July. Both were bonding experiences for the dormmates as well as a chance for the American students to participate in Japanese culture. The only problem I experienced was with the 11pm curfew. It was my first time in Japan, so I often took long trips to places such as Yokohama or Odaiba. At times, it is hard to calculate the train schedule and I occasionally got lost as well. However, I do understand that the curfew is enforced because the Ueda-sans are concerned with our well-being.

Any further thoughts or tips for those considering the program or new KCP students?

I highly recommend the program for those who are considering it. I definitely suggest brushing up on any previously learned Japanese before the start of the program because there is a placement test at the start. During the course of group sessions, the students should definitely continue studying if they wish to be placed in a higher level. The teachers and other administrators at KCP are amazing and the program is definitely what the student wishes to make of it.

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Past and present students share their thoughts and experiences on studying in Japan.

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I would tell everyone thinking of attending KCP to jump in with both feet and go to Japan with an open mind. You never know what you’ll experience next!

—Brittany Crouch