TAKAKURA Hina | Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University

Reasons for Participating in the Program

I had no previous experience in group work and was interested in working together as a team to achieve a same goal. Also, I had heard from a senior at university that APU has a lot of group work, so I thought this would be an opportunity to gain experience in group work and presentations. Furthermore, I applied for this program because I felt that conducting surveys and making hotel reservations on our own, without the use of a translator, was something that we could only experience in this program.

What do you hope to gain from participating in the program and how will you apply it to your future undergraduate studies or career?

It was very difficult to communicate in a place I was visiting for the first time without using phones, but I think I was able to improve my ability to act and make decisions. I also asked local people for information when looking for hotels and restaurants. Since I usually use my smartphone when I travel, I was able to realize the importance of connecting with people. I would like to cherish what I learned from this program and learn about tourism and local reconstruction efforts with an awareness of the importance of connecting with local people.

Message for Students Interested in The Program

While most of the students in our regular classes are from the same department, we can learn with people from other departments in this program. Before the trip, we decide on the theme and questions for the survey, and after the trip, we analyze the survey results and make presentations. Through these activities, you can improve many skills that you will need in your university life. Even if you are feeling anxious, you can grow as a person, so if you are interested in this program, you should participate!!