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Penglais Students 2004 |
Six Penglais students visited Osaka in 2004.
Penglais pupil (age 17): Mind blowing is the only way which I can describe the trip! I hadn't ever been out of Europe before, and what an introduction. The juxtaposition of tradition and technology really opened my eyes to how different the culture of Japan is. It would be wrong to say it was all easy and I was probably the most homesick of the group, perhaps partly due to the fact that my host seemed to have the least English. But being willing to try what challenges were placed in front of me made the experience worthwhile. I think very few cultures would have so much enthusiasm to make you feel welcome. Taking part in the exchange was definitely an experience which modified the way I think and helped me to understand a lot more about myself and those around me.
Penglais pupil(age 18): I will never forget the trip to Osaka. Staying with my exchange partner Yuhi and her family was a truly amazing experience: their kindness was overwhelming, and I hope that we can remain friends. This friendship is the best thing that came out of the trip, but everything else we did -visiting the school, shopping in the city, learning about their traditional culture at Kyoto- was very interesting, an amazing opportunity I hope as many other people as possible from Aberystwyth can take advantage of.
Penglais pupil (age 17): I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Japan. I learnt many things and made many friends. Through e-mail, letters and photos I hope to keep in contact with many, and my diaries will always help to remind me, but some memories, I am sure, will never fade.
Penglais pupil (age 17): My ability to speak Japanese was limited. Although I had attended Japanese language club we were still only at the stage of learning katakana, the second alphabet. The few words I spoke were greatly appreciated. Most people I encountered in Japan spoke very good English and were very pleased to have the opportunity to do so. My time in Japan strengthened my resolve to learn Japanese.
Penglais pupil (age 18): By staying with Japanese families in their homes, taking part in everyday life, I was able to understand far more of their way of life and culture and share their experiences. The best way to learn about a foreign country, its culture and its people, is to take part in daily life. A homestay exchange is a perfect opportunity to do this.
Penglais exchange leader: Japan is a fantastic place to visit. Japan's scenery is stunning; its history is fascinating; the food delicious; its culture is unique. The thing that makes Japan such a great place to experience, however, is its people! They are welcoming and kind and made our brief visit to Osaka one that we will all remember for a long time.
Otemae host partner (age 18): Thanks a lot! It is very good experience for me to interchange with you!! The opportunity to communicate with foreign people from a different country is precious for all.
Otemae host partner (age 17): I could get you to tell me about Wales and tell you about Japan. You love Japan and challenged a lot of Japanese things. You learned many Japanese, didn't you? You staying provoked me to work hard to be good English speaker. I'd like to go to Wales to see you when I become a good English speaker.
For more descriptions of experiences in Japan please see Rachel Taylor's report.