Cultural Immersion with Students from Japan

August 22, 2024 - 09:14 AM

In Spring 2024, Mt. SAC's Japanese Program welcomed five students from Oberlin University, its partner institution in Tokyo, for a two-week cultural exchange. These students, who are part of Oberlin's Japanese language teaching program, had the opportunity to volunteer in Japanese classes, assist with cultural workshops, and immerse themselves in American life. Since 2021, the Japanese program has been actively participating in cultural and linguistic exchanges with Oberlin University. 

With over 450 students enrolled in Japanese courses each semester, the Oberlin visitors quickly became the talk of the campus. More than sixty Mt. SAC students flocked to the Meet & Greet open hours in the 77-Building Courtyard, eager to interact with the Japanese guests. The excitement continued at the International Student Center, where Mt. SAC students filled the space to attend an origami workshop hosted by the Oberlin students. Participants learned to fold paper animals, practiced throwing paper ninja stars, and enjoyed snacks brought from Japan.

Ayaka, one of the Oberlin students, was deeply moved by the warm welcome she received at Mt. SAC. "I was so pleasantly surprised by how friendly everyone was," she said in Japanese. "I’m usually introverted, but this volunteer experience really pushed me out of my shell and challenged me."

The Japanese program plans to host students from Japan every spring semester, offering Mt. SAC students a unique opportunity to learn Japanese with native speakers and develop strong cross-cultural skills.