Dec. 22 - This month Fukuoka's Hakata chapter of AFS Japan celebrated its 10th anniversary. Over the past decade, the volunteers in this chapter have hosted 100 foreign students from 28 countries to Fukuoka and sent 62 Fukuoka high school students to 22 countries abroad. As an AFS returnee myself, I was honored to attend this celebration, to talk about the importance of student exchange programs, and thank the volunteers for their efforts. I told the audience of over 150 people that my year in Japan as a high school exchange student changed my life. Not only did I learn to speak Japanese, but I also discovered that I had the inner strength to overcome life's challenges. My experience in Japan provided me with much needed self confidence.
As a strong proponent of student exchange programs, I am concerned about the rapid decline in the number of Japanese students who choose to study abroad. The number of Japanese students on U.S. campuses has decreased by almost 30% in the past five years, following a general trend of decline since the peak in 1997-98. The number of Japanese who study abroad in many other countries is also declining.
My student experience in Japan would not have been possible without the support of many people. My parents instilled in me an interest in foreign countries; my teachers encouraged me to consider a study abroad program; my Japanese host family welcomed me into their home; my Japanese school accepted me despite my poor Japanese communication ability; and many, many AFS volunteers in both countries managed this wonderful, nurturing exchange program. I tried to encourage the audience in Fukuoka to continue their support for student exchanges because their efforts have great influence on young people.
That day in Fukuoka, over 150 high school principals, counselors, teachers and students, host parents and volunteers, foreign students and Japanese returnees gathered to celebrate this milestone.
I especially enjoyed meeting five Japanese high school students who will study abroad next year. In many ways they reminded me of myself when I first came to Japan. They seemed excited by the opportunity, but a little afraid of the challenges ahead, just as I was. They impressed me with their courage to ask me the first several questions in front of such a large crowd. After talking with these students, I became convinced that they possessed the inner strength of character to overcome the challenges of living in a foreign land and mastering a foreign language. I am sure that they will return to Japan after a year abroad with many wonderful experiences that will enrich their lives in the years to come.
Until next time,
Jim
Always happy to see people participating in exchange programs- as a former exchange student and an ALT who was in charge of Japanese exchange students, I can say it's a worthy and life-changing event.
Thank you very much for inviting us to your speech on December 13. I am sure many exchange students were encouraged by the story of your personal experiences. To tell the truth, I was encouraged by your speech as well, since I had been concerned that Japanese students' view seemed to be getting narrower and narrower, and looking for a way to take measures. I am grateful to you that your speech gave us hope for the future.
Our school is trying to put an effort into educating our students to be able to play an active part in the globalized society in the future. I hope your Embassy, the American Center and our school will be able to work together after this to help our students study abroad or experience international exchange. I look forward to working with you and shall be in contact.
Thank you again for the opportunity to listen to your speech and to meet with You.
Thank you so very much for your heart-warming speech. The youth who attended the event were very much inspired by your sppech. I was mostly touched by your compassion and understanding. Wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!
