I think being in the environment which speaks the language is a very important part of learning.
Which events or activities did you find the most satisfying and why?
For Culture Classes, all of them are very well-organized. Tanaka-san is very knowledgable with all the information and history of the places that we were going. All of them did not disappoint me. I find the trip to Mt. Takao the most satisfying. I had always wanted to see fall leaves in Japan, but I didn't know where was a good place to go for it. Mt. Takao was beautiful and it was really fun going there with the KCP staff, teachers and students. I had a lot of fun! We even saw a little bit of Mt. Fuji!
What were the most productive and interesting aspects of the program for you? The least interesting and productive?
The most productive aspect is that I was able to learn Japanese through communicating with teachers and students. I think being in the environment which speaks the language is a very important part of learning. I am very very satisfied with all the teachers who taught in my class. They could be strict, but it's for our own goods. The school event (trip to Kawagoe) is fun as well, but I wish we had a little more time on our own to explore around.
What activities or materials did you find most helpful (e.g., pair work, drill practice, tests, small group sessions, textbooks, games)?
Tests are the most helpful. Also, I found speaking up in class is helpful because if you make a mistake in front of everyone, you would remember it for a long time because of embarrassment.
Anything you especially liked in the living arrangements? Any problems you experienced?
The walking distance from the dorm to the Ikebukuro Station might be a little far, but I understand it's normal for living in Japan. Otherwise, I've been having a great time living in the dorm. If there's a bigger or more common area, that'll be great!
Any comments or tips for prospective/new KCP students?
Speak up in class. Don't be shy!
