By Vanessa Yang
I’m a third-year Rotman student specializing in management. I’m passionate about traveling and have already visited over 10 countries. I’m looking forward to further exploring around the globe!
A Memorable Experience from Summer Abroad
One of the most memorable experiences from my 2024 Summer Abroad program was participating in the traditional Japanese tea ceremony. During the ceremony, the master first shared the history and philosophy behind this ancient practice and then taught us how to make the tea and let us try ourselves and taste it. It allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the quiet, calm atmosphere and experience the charm of culture. We also got a chance to wear a traditional kimono. It added a layer of authenticity and connection to the tradition, making it a truly unique experience.
This tea ceremony experience stands out to me because it was a valuable and rare opportunity to engage with a significant cultural practice and gain a deeper understanding of Japanese culture. It showed aspects of Japanese aesthetics and values that are hard to learn from books and lectures, offering a profound appreciation of the meticulous art of tea-making and the serene beauty of Japanese customs. All these made it an unforgettable highlight of my summer abroad experience.
Advice for Prospective Summer Abroad Students
My advice to prospective Summer Abroad students is simple: don’t hesitate to join; it’s definitely worth it and will be one of your best experiences at UofT.
Firstly, participating in the program will broaden your horizons. Through unique field trip experiences like visiting local factories and businesses, touring cities, and participating in cultural activities, you can gain a deeper understanding of cross-cultural perspectives. These experiences expose you to new cultures, languages, and traditions that are inaccessible through traditional academic settings alone.
Secondly, the program enhances personal growth by developing high adaptability and problem-solving skills in unfamiliar environments. For example, navigating Tokyo's complex transportation system challenged me to quickly adapt and find efficient routes to our destinations. It improved my ability to thrive in diverse and dynamic settings. These skills are invaluable for preparing us for future academic and professional challenges where adaptability and problem-solving are essential.
Thirdly, you will have the opportunity to make lifelong friendships with people from various programs and backgrounds, creating a diverse and supportive network. Personally, I formed friendships that have lasted well beyond the summer. It enriches my university experience and brings a global perspective.
Overall, you will gain new insights, lifelong friendships, unforgettable memories, and a set of skills that are valuable and transformable. So seize the opportunity and embark on this adventure – it’s an investment in your future that you will not regret!
Support and Navigation through the Summer Abroad Program
The Summer Abroad program provided excellent support for us throughout. Before our departure, the summer abroad office provided numerous valuable resources to ensure we were well-prepared. We attended a pre-departure orientation, where we learned detailed information about the program and met our on-site staff and professor. This session gave us the opportunity to ask any questions we had about the program or the course. Additionally, we had access to a unique Japan Summer Abroad student guide webpage that contained essential information such as the program calendar, pre-departure checklist, and emergency contacts to ensure our safe and smooth transition.
It is also important to note that the summer abroad office is very approachable and accessible. Whenever I have any problems, I can easily reach out to them via email, phone calls, or by visiting their office. They were always there to address our concerns promptly and effectively.
Once we arrived in Japan, our on-site staff, Joe, was incredibly helpful and supportive. He was thoughtful and proactive in helping us navigate potential barriers. For instance, Tokyo's transportation system is very complicated, so Joe took the time to show us how to get to the campus on the first day to ensure we did not get lost. Language was another significant barrier, but Joe was always available to help us translate and communicate. His assistance was invaluable in making our experience smooth and enjoyable, ensuring that we could fully embrace the opportunities provided by the program.
Creating an Inclusive Environment through Community Interactions
One of the highlights was engaging with the local community through guest speakers who came to our class to share their experiences working in the Japanese workplace. Both guest speakers went to North American universities for their undergraduate degrees and are now working in Japan. They shared how they navigate the cultural differences and the effort they put in to adapt to the Japanese workplace and traditional practices. It provides valuable insights on fostering a sense of inclusivity and mutual respect.
Moreover, interacting with fellow participants from diverse backgrounds also played a crucial role in promoting inclusivity. We shared our unique perspectives, experiences, and cultural practices, enriching our understanding of each other. Many opportunities such as group discussions, collaborative tasks, and social activities encouraged us to appreciate our differences and find common ground.
Additionally, our visits to local businesses allowed us to learn more about related histories and cultures, helping break down cultural barriers. These combined experiences created a supportive and inclusive atmosphere, enhancing our overall experience and leaving us with lasting friendships and a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity.