On Tuesday, June 16, 2026, nine students from California State University, Bakersfield (CSUB) visited Kansai University’s Sakai Campus.

The program began with a lunch exchange in the campus cafeteria, where approximately 35 Kansai University students—mainly from the Faculty of Health and Well-being—joined the session and interacted with the visiting CSUB students. Sharing a meal created a relaxed atmosphere that encouraged natural and active communication among participants.

Following the lunch session, a cross-cultural collaborative learning activity was conducted with 17 students enrolled in the course “Multicultural Coexistence and Human Health,” taught by Specially Appointed Assistant Professor Zelda Marquart. The session focused on the theme:
“An event, space, or activity at university where diverse people can feel comfortable, welcome, and connected.”
Students engaged in discussions from both Japanese and American perspectives, working in groups to exchange ideas based on their cultural backgrounds and personal experiences. Each group then developed and presented their proposals, deepening their understanding of how to create inclusive environments on campus.

In the latter half of the program, 20 students from the Hikotsugi Seminar joined CSUB students to participate in Kansai University’s signature Peer Activity (PA). Participants tackled physically and mentally challenging activities, such as balance exercises at height and climbing challenges, which required cooperation and mutual trust.

Through these activities, students experienced firsthand both the importance and the difficulty of building rapport beyond verbal communication. By supporting each other throughout the challenges, they strengthened trust and developed a deeper sense of connection.

This program provided a valuable opportunity for students to enhance their intercultural understanding through a combination of academic discussion and experiential learning, making it a highly meaningful international exchange experience.