As a third-year student in the School of Informatics at Nagoya University, I participated in the Singapore Exchange course in July 2024. This week-long program, though brief in duration, provided invaluable insights into international education and professional environments. The experience encompassed three primary components: intensive English language instruction, visits to prominent technology companies, and a specialized problem-based learning (PBL) course. 

The English component of the program used contemporary pedagogical approaches that differed from traditional Japanese instruction methods. The curriculum emphasized practical communication skills through structured role-playing exercises and group discussions. The local instructors guided us through both everyday conversational scenarios and professional communication contexts. 

The interactive nature of these sessions proved effective. With the help of teaching assistants, we engaged in various practical exercises that enhanced both our linguistic capabilities and confidence in English communication. This experience has motivated me to continue my language studies since I returned to Japan. 

Professional Insights Through Corporate Visits 

A significant aspect of the program involved visits to prominent international technology companies, including Google, Microsoft, and AWS, as well as a Japanese trading company. These visits provided valuable exposure to international corporate environments and organizational cultures. The workplace environment at these companies showed a notable balance between productivity and employee well-being. 

The visit to the Japanese trading company was enlightening, offering insights into potential career paths I had not considered. For students approaching career decisions, these corporate visits provided valuable perspectives on various professional opportunities. 

Academic Engagement Through Problem-Based Learning 

The PBL component addressed a pertinent contemporary issue: "How do young Japanese people navigate an era of uncertainty?" The program featured presentations from distinguished speakers, including the president of Rakuten Asia and successful entrepreneurs. Their perspectives on innovation and adaptation in the modern business environment were instructive. 

The culminating group presentations allowed participants to synthesize the insights gained throughout the program.These discussions facilitated critical thinking about the future prospects and challenges of our generation, providing a broader perspective than that available in technical courses. 

Cultural Immersion in Singapore 

Beyond the academic components, the program offered opportunities to experience Singapore's cultural diversity. Despite the brief duration of the program, we could visit well-known landmarks, including Merlion Park, Gardens by the Bay, and Lau Pa Sat Festival Market.Cultural exposure extended to Singapore's renowned culinary diversity, offering an authentic taste of various Asian cuisines. 

Addressing Unexpected Challenges 

An unanticipated medical situation on the scheduled departure date, involving a high fever, demonstrated the robust support systems of the program.The local Nagoya University representative, Professor Hiroshi Imaizumi, provided consistent help, while Singaporean and Japanese staff ensured appropriate medical care and necessary logistic arrangements. 

Program Benefits for Third-Year Students 

Timing for this program is advantageous for third-year students at Nagoya University, coinciding with critical decisions regarding graduate studies and career planning. Experience offers valuable perspectives that can inform these important choices. 

Although the program spans only one week, it provides comprehensive exposure to international academic and professional environments. Combining structured learning activities and cultural experiences creates an enriching educational opportunity. 

For students considering international academic experiences, this program offers an excellent introduction to studying abroad. The short duration makes it accessible, while still providing meaningful exposure to international environments and perspectives. 

Even brief international experiences provide significant educational value, as the program demonstrates.It offers an opportunity to expand one's professional and academic horizons while developing essential cross-cultural communication skills in today's globalized environment. I encourage my fellow Nagoya University students to consider joining one of the many programs available at our institution.