[Destination] University of Otago Language Center (New Zealand)
[Study abroad period] August XNUMX, XNUMX to September XNUMX, XNUMX (XNUMX weeks)
[Type of study abroad] Short-term study abroad at a partner university
Q.Please tell us about the atmosphere of the students at your study abroad destination.
9% of the students were Japanese, and the rest were from Thailand, China, Oman, and Saudi Arabia.I heard that there are many Japanese students during summer vacation and spring vacation.The class was based on the format of having a discussion in pairs on the topic given by the teacher.I had many opportunities to compare countries with international students, and it was a lot of fun.
Q.what did the schedule look like
Of the five English levels, I took Upper intermediate, the second from the top. I have studied English for 5 hours in 2 weeks.Depending on the day of the week, classes start at 4:92 or 9:10 am and end at 4:XNUMX pm.There was a morning class for basic English and an afternoon class for TOEIC or IELTS preparation.I chose IELTS because there are many international students.Since I have a quiz on Monday, I enjoyed sightseeing and extracurricular activities after school and on weekends, and I was also preparing for the test.Every day was really busy.
Q.Were the facilities on campus adequate?
The university campus is the size of a small town.The beautiful clock tower that looks like something out of Harry Potter is a must-see.There are three libraries and plenty of self-study spaces.Japanese books were also placed.I also saw a sushi shop.In addition, the language center (language center) is connected to the sports gym, cafe, and stadium, where rugby matches and live performances by singers were held.I once went to watch an official rugby match with my friends.
Q.did you participate in the circle
There were dance circles, kendo, cooking, cosplay, etc., but in the end I didn't participate.Extracurricular activities include Japanese Chat Time (Japanese conversation club), English conversation (English conversation club), and Food Festival (a cultural festival for international students), which I often participated in after school. I have fond memories of going shopping with my Japanese friends at the Food Festival and making and selling fried chicken.
Q.Do you have any recommended sightseeing spots?
Tunnel Beach.Because it is in the suburbs, it is a little difficult to move around, but the scenery of seagulls, grasslands and the sea was superb.I was surprised when I encountered a sleeping seal on the beach and was threatened.All the senior international students praised it highly.
Q.Lastly, please
In fact, I lost my passport before returning to Japan, but I was able to return home with the help of many people, including my host family, university staff, and friends of international students.I had a hard time, but it was a valuable experience.
If you want to study abroad but are afraid to go to a place where you don't speak the language, it's okay.Even if it's a struggle, it's definitely worth going.
Q.profile
Ms. Yuko Tanaka, XNUMXrd year, Department of Biology, Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences
Since I am aiming to go on to graduate school, I decided to study abroad to learn academic English.Even after studying abroad, he still struggles to read English papers, but he is now able to enjoy studying English much more than before.Her hobbies are drawing manga and collecting mushrooms.