Be prepared for a very different school experience.
Which events or activities did you find the most satisfying and why?
I really loved the BBQ and the Kamakura trip the best. The BBQ was tons of fun and offered a great opportunity to socialize with classmates outside of class and lots of opportunities to practice Japanese. Plus lots of delicious food! The Kamakura trip was great and a great way to meet and interact with other American Program students. I especially enjoyed the stay at the Ryokan. It was quite a worthwhile and fun experience. Definitely something I would never be able to experience anywhere else.
Which co-curriculum classes did you find most satisfying?
I really enjoyed the Road to Kanji Master with Takahashi-sensei. She made the class fun and interesting and I learned a lot about how Kanji worked.
Why did you select this program?
I selected this program because of great recommendations and the fact that the classes were separated by levels. I liked the fact that this school focused mainly on the learning of the Japanese language and allowed students to move up levels. Also the fact that KCP is located right in Tokyo was a huge plus.
What did you find most valuable in the Culture Course?
It was very nice to be able to ask questions about culture in English and learn about it from a Japanese person rather than a text book. I especially enjoyed the excursions like the trip to Kamakura and the bunraku.
Any further thoughts or tips for those considering the program or new KCP students?
If you just want to come to Japan to shop or play around then choose a different program. If you are serious about learning Japanese and willing to learn and push yourself then this is the best program there is. Even if you have never studied Japanese before do not be afraid. Tokyo is very foreigner friendly and there are lots of other students here willing to help you out if you need it. KCP can take you from absolute nothing to what you would get studying 4 years in America in 9 months. If you are willing to work hard your teachers will work twice as hard to help you achieve your goals.
Any other comments or suggestions?
Ask your seniors or other students for food and shopping recommendations. We know where all the best and/or cheap food is. Also be prepared for a very different school experience. The methods and styles used by Japanese instructors in Japan are very different from what most American students are used to, even if your instructor in America is Japanese themselves. If you listen to the teachers and Office workers and work with them your experience in Japan will be fantastic!
