OUR OQEANOUS STUDENTS

Short Term Program

STP Report (SHOU Jul - Aug 2024)

2025.03.06

Course of Marine Resources and Environment, Graduate School of TUMSAT
1st year of Master's Program
M.D.

Reason for Applying to STP

The main reason I applied to the STP was the actual duration of the study abroad program. Although I had the desire to study abroad, I couldn't act on it due to time constraints that prevented me from participating in a typical study abroad program. It was then that I came across the opportunity to apply for　STP. The fact that it took place in August, which corresponds to the Obon period in Japan, seemed to fit well with the busy lives of first-year master's students who are engaged in research activities and job hunting. Additionally, having entered the university at the graduate level, I had few friends on campus and was also looking to make new friends within the country, which led me to apply.

About Online Lectures

The STP program began with online lectures. I was able to gain insights into marine science of regions that I wouldn't have had access to normally, taught by international professors whose classes I could not have attended otherwise. The language of instruction was, of course, English, and although there were moments where it was difficult to understand due to regional accents, the materials provided, such as slides, were very clear, making it easy to follow along with few difficulties in comprehension.

About the In-Person Program (Field Trip) at Shanghai Ocean University

STP2024_2.pngIn a word, I spent a very intensive time there. I am proud to say that it was the most meaningful period of my life so far. Though it may sound insufficient, spending time in places where I have never been before, with unknown people, communicating in a different common language, was truly enjoyable. There are everyday experiences in China that I had never encountered in Japan. The support from the university was extensive, including significant financial aid locally. While it was not an exchange with students from other universities, I remember distributing juice bought in the university cafeteria to local children, fostering interactions with them.

Interaction with Students from Other Universities

The students from other universities were of a very high caliber. Some were younger than me and able to translate local Chinese into English on the spot for us. What stands out most in my memory is the presentation competition on the final day of the STP. One of the team's presentation was exceptionally outstanding among all I have ever seen, and it left a deep impression on me. Even when I struggled with communication, they conveyed their points clearly and kindly, which also allowed me to experience the kindness found around the world.

Changes in Awareness After Participation

To be honest, I realized I was not well-suited for studying abroad. In my home country, I am known for my strong communication skills and am considered quite diplomatic. However, in China, I was unable to leverage these strengths, and unlike my peers, I struggled to initiate proactive communication. This mismatch was a revelation to me. Recognizing this disconnect and understanding my attitude towards studying abroad has marked a significant shift in my own awareness.

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