September 3rd: Day 1

The first day of the short-term study abroad program began with a special introduction to Hawaiian culture. During the opening orientation, students were warmly welcomed with the iconic “Kukui nut lei,” a necklace made from the nuts of the Kukui tree. The friendly greetings from the local staff and the presentation of the Kukui nut lei brought Hawaiian culture closer to the students, offering them an immediate connection to the island’s traditions.

Following this, a campus tour took place under the strong Hawaiian sun, but the green, well-ventilated campus made for a comfortable experience. Surrounded by nature and open spaces, the students enjoyed a pleasant walk, setting the tone for an exciting academic journey ahead.

In the afternoon, students participated in a hula dance lesson to further explore Hawaiian culture. Initially a bit shy, they gradually became more comfortable with the movements and rhythm. By the end, they were able to complete an entire dance phrase, their faces reflecting a sense of achievement. This day provided not only a deep cultural experience but also an opportunity for the students to bond through shared activities.

 

 

 

September 4th: Day 2

The second day began with an English presentation lesson. Students engaged in brainstorming sessions with their classmates, sharing ideas and shaping the content for their group presentations. Despite the language barrier, they actively participated and contributed ideas, working together to form cohesive presentations.

Later, they visited the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawai’i, where they explored the history of Hawaii before and after World War II through videos, photos, and models. This immersive experience gave them a deeper understanding of the lives and culture of Hawaiians during the war era. In the afternoon, students attended a lecture by a University of Hawaii professor on Clean Energy and Climate Change, providing valuable insights into pressing environmental issues. It was a packed and enriching day filled with learning and exploration.

 

 

 

 

 

September 5th: Day 3

The third day’s English presentation lesson focused on key aspects of public speaking, such as mindset and voice projection. Students learned practical skills for speaking confidently in front of an audience and gained more confidence for their upcoming presentations.

During the lunch break, they had the chance to discuss “Current Issues” with University of Hawaii at Manoa (UHM) students. While struggling with debates in English, the students enjoyed lively discussions in a relaxed atmosphere, sharing ideas over pizza. In the afternoon, they visited a fish pond surrounded by tropical rainforests in the hilly mountains. There, they observed measures taken to protect native Hawaiian fish species from invasive species, learning valuable lessons about environmental preservation. It was a day filled with both academic learning and cultural discoveries.